GE · Dishwasher
GE Dishwasher C2 Error Code
Total drain cycle exceeded 7 minutes
What this error means
C2 indicates total pump-out exceeded seven minutes—more severe than C1.
How C2 is detected
When C2 appears on a GE dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On GE GDT655SSJSS, GE GDF630PSMSS, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most C2 calls are resolved without parts: press reset to stop beep. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If C2 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Partially blocked drain line
- Failed pump impeller
- Check valve stuck
- Kinked hose under sink
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Press RESET to stop beep
- 2Clean filter and air gap thoroughly
- 3Disconnect hose to bucket test
- 4Inspect check valve
When to call a technician
Standing water after C2 with clear plumbing needs pump motor.
Affected models
- GE GDT655SSJSS
- GE GDF630PSMSS
- GE GDT225SSLSS
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent C2 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when C2 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your GE dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for C2; GE uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting C2; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.