Dishwasher runs drain pump continuously and will not advance to wash; may display C1 on the control panel.

Safety first: Disconnect power at the breaker and turn off the water supply before working on the dishwasher. Be prepared for some water spillage when opening hoses.

• Check sink and disposer: Run water in the sink and verify the sink drain is clear. If the dishwasher was recently installed to a garbage disposer, remove the disposer inlet knockout plug if it was not removed.
• Inspect the air gap (if present): Remove the air gap cap on the sink and check for food debris or grease. Clean thoroughly and flush with hot water.
• Check the drain hose: Pull the dishwasher slightly out if needed. Inspect the drain hose from the dishwasher to the sink/disposer for kinks, pinches, or clogs. Detach the hose at the sink/disposer end and flush it with hot water. Clear any obstructions.
• Clean the sump and filter: Open the door, remove the lower rack, and take out the fine and coarse filters. Check the sump area for glass, food, or labels blocking the drain inlet. Remove debris carefully.
• Test the drain pump: With power still off, access the bottom front of the dishwasher (remove toe-kick). Locate the drain pump on the GE Café sump assembly. Check for obstructions in the impeller. If the impeller is damaged or the pump hums but does not move water when powered, the pump likely needs replacement.
• Reset and test: Restore power, run a short cycle, and observe the drain at the beginning and end of the cycle. If C1 returns after clearing all blockages, the drain pump or main control may be faulty and should be tested or replaced.