GE Dishwasher Remove Top Rack: Step-By-Step Guide

Like many other dishwasher brands in the market, all GE dishwashers are built with two separate racks inside. In case of doing some repairs or putting a large load on the lower rack, the top rack needs to be removed temporarily.

The GE dishwasher top rack removal procedure can be done by sticking a screwdriver behind the tabs and pushing them towards the wall. Remove the end caps from the rack rail connecting the top rack. Now, you can pull the top rack forward and remove it completely from the dishwasher.

We will get to know why and how to remove the top rack of GE dishwashers in detail in this guide. Additionally, you’ll also be enlightened on the different models which support this removal and act accordingly.

Why Is The GE Dishwasher Not Cleaning The Top Rack?

A common complaint the users of GE dishwashers have is that after the wash cycle, the dishes on the top rack aren’t cleaned. This is a huge inconvenience as you’ll need to put the same dishes on another wash cycle at the bottom rack.

The main culprits behind this problem are actually very easy to find. Here are the probable reasons for which you discover the dishes on the top rack aren’t getting cleaned:

• Low water pressure
• Blocked spray arms
• Broken spray arm seal
• Overloaded dishwasher
• Actuator not working well
• Dishes weren’t loaded properly

Do All GE Dishwashers Have a Removable Top Rack?

In order to fix most of the problems mentioned above, you might need to remove the top rack of the dishwasher. However, here comes the question whether or not the top rack is removable on your model of GE dishwasher.

Unfortunately, not all GE dishwashers have a removable top rack built in them. The GE models with a removable top rack are GE profile, Monogram and Cafe.

Removable or not, you will be able to take the top rack off from your GE dishwasher anyhow. The only difference is that you can’t reattach the top rack once again without reinstalling the cap ends with a screwdriver.

Let’s take a look at the GE dishwasher models and their top rack removal privileges:

Models Prior To 1993

GE dishwashers built prior to 1993 had the removable top rack separate from the rails. By prying off the end caps from the rails, you could remove the top rack in these models.

However, GE instructed not to do this often as the tabs are extremely breakable. Once it breaks, the entire rail will have to be replaced. So, you can’t remove the top racks as many times as you want.

Models From 1993 to Present

GE dishwasher models manufactured from 1993 to present are of plastic, hybrid and stainless tubs. They’re listed as removable, non removable and adjustable top rack models.

Removable Top Rack Models

These specified models feature top racks that can be easily removed simply by pulling the rack completely out. You won’t need to deal with end caps or worry about the tabs getting broken in the process.

These can be taken out every time you wash bigger dishes in the lower rack. You can check out the owner’s manual of your specific model of GE dishwasher to reconfirm more details about the removal.

Non-removable Top Rack Models

In these models, you need to follow the same procedures as the models prior to 1993. The top rack is secured with end tabs with the rails in these dishwashers. So, use your finger or a screwdriver to pry open the tab and remove the top rack.

We have included a detailed step-by-step guide on this removal just for your convenience in the next section below.

Adjustable or Height Adjustable Top Rack Models

The GE dishwasher’s top rack listed as only Adjustable or Height Adjustable can’t be removed. The only way to remove the top rack of these models is to contact a technician and have them remove it.

How To Remove GE Dishwasher Top Rack?

Over time, the top rack of the dishwasher can face and accumulate problems. To solve them, you need to remove the top rack first and complete the repairs.

On the other hand, sometimes you might need to wash larger utensils and items such as roasters, stock pots etc. For that, you’ll need to remove the top rack first to make room for the dishes on the bottom rack.

So, knowing how to remove the top rack is a necessity when you own a GE dishwasher. Follow these steps to take off the top rack of your GE dishwasher:

Step 1: Clear Out The Dishwasher

Open the GE dishwasher door and remove all the dishes from the inside. The dishwasher should be fully empty to avoid any kind of accidents. Make sure the power is disconnected before the disassembly.

Step 2: Extend The Top Rack

Hold the front of the top rack and pull it outward. It is similar to when you fill the rack with dishes. Extend the entire top rack towards you fully until you can see the side rails at the end of the rack.

Step 3: Push Out The Plastic Tabs

Near the end of the top rack, locate the square, plastic tabs on both sides. Press the tabs inwards with your fingers. If you can’t use a small, flathead screwdriver to pull the tab towards the rack itself.

You’ll need to push the screwdriver between the inside rail and the tab. Then, gently force the tab to loosen the end caps. Make sure not to put too much pressure on the tabs as they’re only plastic and breakable under extreme force.

Step 4: Remove The End Caps

After loosening the plastic tabs, pull out the end caps from the rail. Put the end caps in a bowl or container so that they’re not lost. You’ll need them to reattach the top rack once again.

Step 5: Pull Out The Top Rack

Now, you can grab the sides of the top rack and easily slide it out of the rails. You’re done removing the top rack of the GE dishwasher. Push the rails inside after the removal and put on the end caps once again to secure the rails.

And you’re done removing the top rack of your GE dishwasher. To reattach the top rack, align the rack properly with the rails and push it back inside. Pull the rails forward and snap them back in place with the top rack in. 

FAQs

The more we get to know about the GE dishwasher and its top rack, the better. So, let’s get to answering a few of the questions among the GE dishwasher users.

Final Words

In case of removing the top rack for some reason, simply follow the steps and instructions provided in this guide.

If you’re extremely confused about the kind of GE dishwasher removal top rack procedure you need to follow, take help from the owner’s manual.

Simply put in the model number of your GE dishwasher in the official GE dishwasher website and follow their instructions. You will also get to know whether it has removable or just height adjustable top racks here.