Quick answer
A GE dishwasher F98 error code means the turbidity sensor detected water that did not clear from the sump during draining. The most common causes are a clogged filter or drain line, a failed drain pump, or a dirty or failed turbidity sensor. Clear the drain path, then test the pump for about 27 ohms and the sensor for about 11 kilohms. A drain pump costs $40 to $90.
GE dishwasher code F98, especially with water left in the tub, calls for checks of the drain pump and turbidity sensor in the procedure covered here. A blocked sump or drain path can complicate the diagnosis, so replacing a component before clearing obstructions may leave the problem unresolved. The troubleshooting sequence below separates those checks and guides the repair decision.
Quick Facts
| Detail | At a Glance |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Time | 15 minutes for drain checks, 60 to 90 minutes for sump and pump work |
| Tools | Multimeter, Torx T20 and Phillips screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers, towels, shallow pan |
| Part Cost | $0 for a clog, $40 to $90 for a drain pump, $30 to $70 for a turbidity sensor |
| Skill | Intermediate |
What Does the GE Dishwasher F98 Error Code Mean?
The GE dishwasher F98 error code in this procedure calls for drain pump and turbidity sensor checks; the sump and drain path also need attention.
Keep these points in mind.
- The turbidity sensor reports water not clearing from the sump during drain
- Which GE and GE Profile models show it
- How it reads in the service code mode
A symptom points toward a system, but several parts in that system may cause it; the useful question is which observation separates those parts. Visible damage gives stronger evidence than a guess from age alone. An electrical fault needs a reading made at the right points.
What Causes a GE Dishwasher to Show F98?
The sump is the low part of the tub where water collects; the drain pump sends that water out, while the turbidity sensor measures how cloudy it is. A clog can affect the pump, and dirty water can affect sensor behavior. Neither symptom alone identifies the failed part.
The following details help narrow the decision.
| Condition or Detail | Meaning or Next Consideration |
| clogged filter or sump | A flow restriction can remain until the filter path is clear. |
| kinked drain hose or missing high loop | Use this observation to narrow the fault before choosing a replacement. |
| disposal knockout plug still in place | Use this observation to narrow the fault before choosing a replacement. |
| failed drain pump | Use this observation to narrow the fault before choosing a replacement. |
| dirty or failed turbidity sensor | Judge the sensor signal under the correct temperature and test conditions. |
| control board | Consider this after the related parts and wiring have been ruled out. |
A symptom points toward a system, but several parts in that system may cause it; the useful question is which observation separates those parts. Visible damage gives stronger evidence than a guess from age alone. An electrical fault needs a reading made at the right points.
What would make this part a poor choice? A sound test result means you need to consider the other causes before ordering it.
Does F98 Point to a Control Board or Sensor Fault?
These signs need to be read together; a single symptom can point to more than one cause, so the condition of the related parts matters too.
Keep these points in mind.
- The sensor reports
- The board decides
- Why a drain problem triggers a sensor code
- The readings that clear each suspect
A symptom points toward a system, but several parts in that system may cause it; the useful question is which observation separates those parts. Visible damage gives stronger evidence than a guess from age alone. An electrical fault needs a reading made at the right points.
Should I Cut Power to the GE Dishwasher to Reset F98?
Follow these steps to check this part of the fault.
Check the Reset and Response
- Turn the breaker off for 60 seconds.
- Restore power.
- Run a drain-only or rinse cycle.
- Note whether water clears.
The Off button is a control setting, not a way to remove electrical power from every internal part; a resistance test belongs on a disconnected circuit. Water and nearby powered parts make careless access especially risky. A live reading is a separate task with different hazards.
How to Clear the F98 Code on a GE Dishwasher Step by Step
Follow these steps to complete the covered procedure for GE dishwasher F98 error code.
Phase 1: Cut Power and Remove the Sump Assembly
- Disconnect power.
- Disconnect the sump hoses and wires.
- Release its latches or screws.
- Remove the sump assembly.
Phase 2: Test the Drain Pump Windings and Impeller
- Measure the drain motor winding for about 27 ohms.
- Check that its impeller moves freely.
- Replace a motor that fails its test.
Phase 3: Test the Turbidity Sensor and Its Harness
- Inspect the turbidity sensor harness.
- Release its connector tab.
- Check for damage or corrosion.
- Measure about 11 kilohms at 75°F.
- Replace a sensor outside the correct range.
Phase 4: Clean the Sump, Clear the Drain Line, and Reassemble
- Clean the sump.
- Clear the drain hose.
- Reconnect the sump hoses and wiring.
- Secure the assembly.
- Restore power.
- Run a full cycle.
What Readings Should the Drain Pump and Turbidity Sensor Show?
Use the stated test condition as well as the reading; a normal value at the wrong temperature or terminals can lead to the wrong conclusion.
Keep these points in mind.
- Drain pump about 27 ohms
- Turbidity sensor about 11 kilohms at 75°F
- OL means open
- Near zero means shorted
- Impeller should turn freely by hand
Resistance is measured in ohms with the part disconnected from power; a kilohm is 1,000 ohms. Continuity means there is an electrical path through the tested part. OL usually means that path is open or beyond the meter range.
Should You Replace the Drain Pump, the Sensor, or Call a Technician?
Choose the repair that matches the confirmed fault; a cheaper part will not help if it belongs to a different part of the system.
Keep these points in mind.
- Clog clearing free
- Drain pump $40 to $90
- Turbidity sensor $30 to $70
- Control board $150 to $300 last
- Call a technician when both parts test good
- The sump leaks
- Or the unit is under warranty
A low-cost part is a good choice only when it corrects the confirmed fault; cleaning can solve a blockage, but it cannot repair a cracked housing or an open winding. A control board should come later in the diagnosis because a bad connection can create the same symptom. Parts cost is only part of the decision.
FAQ
Can F98 Appear With No Standing Water?
Yes, a sensor or electrical fault can remain after water drains. Standing water is only one part of the diagnosis.
Why Does the Code Return After Cleaning the Filter?
The drain hose, pump, sensor, or wiring may still be faulty. Filter cleaning does not correct an open winding or sensor.
Does the Garbage Disposal Affect F98?
A blocked disposal connection can restrict the dishwasher drain. A new disposal can also block draining if its dishwasher inlet is not open.
Draining Clean and Clearing F98 for Good
You have a clearer path when the symptoms, model, and test results agree; focus on the failed part and keep the nearby wiring, mounts, and seals in view. A sound diagnosis helps the repair solve the original problem.
Check the full model number, then choose the compatible drain pump or turbidity sensor so the tub drains clean again.
