What should I check first for GE dishwasher error C1?

Check the drain line for debris and blockage.

What usually causes GE dishwasher error C1?

Debris or a blockage in the drain line

C1Medium

GE dishwasher error C1

C1 means the drain is partially blocked: the dishwasher could not pump the water out in under 95 seconds.

Symptom
C1
Free checks
3 checks
Most likely cause
Debris or a blockage in the drain line

The 3 free checks

Start at the top. Unplug the machine first.

01
Check the drain line for debris and blockage.
02
If the line is clear, the restriction is in the drain valve inside the pump.
03
Clear any clogs from the sink drain or garbage disposal connection the dishwasher empties into.

What causes it

Listed most likely first.

Cause	How often	DIY
Debris or a blockage in the drain line	Most common	Yes
Restricted drain valve in the pump	Common	Call a pro

Before you check anything

Disconnect the power first. Unplug the machine at the socket, or switch off its circuit at the consumer unit if it is hard-wired. Do this before opening any panel, reaching into a pump filter, or moving the appliance.
Turn off the water before disconnecting a hose, and have a towel and a shallow tray ready — a drain hose holds water even when the drum looks empty.
Gas, mains wiring and sealed refrigeration are for a qualified professional — in many countries that is a legal requirement, not advice. If you smell gas, do not touch any switch: leave, and call your gas emergency number from outside.
Stop if you smell burning, see scorched wiring, or find water near an electrical connection. None of those is a code to look up.

The checks on this page are the manufacturer’s own, rewritten and sourced, and they are reference information rather than a repair instruction for your particular machine. Model, age and installation all change what is safe to do. You are the one standing in front of it — if a step looks wrong for the machine you have, trust that and call a technician.