GE Dishwasher Error Code FTD — Failure to Drain
What this means
The FTD error code on GE dishwashers stands for Failure to Drain. The control board has detected that water remains in the tub after the drain pump should have emptied it. This can be caused by a clogged drain filter, a blocked drain hose, a failed drain pump, a kinked hose, or a garbage disposal that has not been cleared. This code may also appear as F56 on some models.
Alternate codes: F56
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsClear the garbage disposal
If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, run the disposal with plenty of water for 30 seconds to clear any blockage. Food debris backed up in the disposal is a very common cause of the FTD code.
Run the disposal before every dishwasher cycle to keep the drain path clear.
Clean the drain filter and sump area
Remove the lower dish rack and locate the drain filter at the bottom of the tub. Remove the filter and rinse it under running water. Also inspect the sump area beneath the filter for broken glass, bones, or other debris that may be blocking the drain impeller.
Use a flashlight to look down into the sump area. Even a small piece of debris can jam the impeller and stop draining.
Inspect the drain hose
Turn off the dishwasher and access the drain hose under the sink. Check for kinks, clogs, or a disconnected hose. Detach the hose from the disposal/tailpiece and run water through it to verify it is clear.
A drain hose that is too long can develop low spots where water and grease accumulate. Keep the hose as short and direct as possible.
Check the drain pump
If the filter, sump, and hose are all clear, listen for the drain pump during a drain cycle. You should hear it running. If the pump hums but does not move water, the impeller may be jammed. If there is no sound at all, the pump motor has failed.
Access the pump from underneath the dishwasher by laying the unit on its back. Check the impeller for debris and test the motor for continuity.
When to call a professional
If all drain paths are clear and the pump is not running, the drain pump motor or the control board may need replacement. These repairs require removing the dishwasher and working underneath it.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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