GE Dishwasher Error Code i20 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

i20 on a GE Profile dishwasher means the machine has detected a drainage problem. The filter, sump, or drain hose is clogged and water cannot exit properly. Cleaning the filter is the first fix — it resolves i20 in most cases.

Affected Models

GE Profile Dishwasher
GE Profile Built-In Dishwasher
GE Profile Top Control Dishwasher
GE Cafe Dishwasher

Common Causes

The mesh filter basket at the bottom of the tub is clogged with food debris
The sump drain area is blocked by a buildup of grease and food particles
The drain hose is kinked, pinched, or partially blocked
The garbage disposal knockout plug was not removed during installation
The drain pump motor has failed and cannot push water out

How to Fix It

Remove the lower dish rack and locate the circular filter assembly at the bottom of the tub. Twist it counterclockwise and lift it out.

The filter captures food particles during every wash. If it is never cleaned, it blocks drainage and triggers i20.
Rinse the filter under warm running water and scrub gently with a soft brush. Clean both the cylindrical mesh filter and the flat coarse filter underneath it.

GE recommends cleaning the filter monthly. If you have never cleaned it, expect a significant buildup.
With the filter removed, use a flashlight to inspect the sump drain opening at the bottom of the tub. Remove any visible debris by hand or with needle-nose pliers.

Do not reach in barebanded if broken glass is a possibility — use pliers or a magnet tool.
Check the drain hose behind and under the dishwasher for kinks or bends. The hose should have a high loop up under the counter before going to the drain connection.

A drooping drain hose allows water to backflow, which confuses the drainage sensor and can trigger i20.
If the dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, check that the disposal's dishwasher knockout plug was removed during installation. If it is still in place, water cannot exit.

This is a common installation mistake. The plug is a solid plastic disc inside the disposal inlet — use a screwdriver and hammer to knock it out.
Reinstall the filter, run a short rinse-only cycle, and listen for the drain pump running at the end.

You should hear a brief humming and water gurgling out. Silence at the drain step means the pump is not running — call a technician.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning the filter and drain path does not clear i20, the drain pump may have failed. The drain pump is at the base of the sump and can be tested or replaced by a technician. Repair typically costs $120 to $200 including parts and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my GE Profile dishwasher filter?

GE recommends cleaning the filter once a month. If you run heavy loads or have hard water, clean it every two weeks. A clean filter prevents i20 and keeps dishes coming out spotless.

Can i20 appear even if the dishwasher seems to be draining?

Yes — partial drainage can trigger i20 if the drain is slow enough to exceed the timing threshold. The machine expects drainage to complete within a set time window. A partially blocked filter or kinked hose can cause this.

Is i20 the same as error code i40 on GE dishwashers?

They are related but different. i20 points specifically to the filter and drain path. i40 is more often linked to the turbidity or ATC sensor. Both involve water sensing, but i20 is almost always fixed by cleaning the filter.