How to replace turbidity sensor WD21X22830 in a GE dishwasher

Is your GE dishwasher leaving you with cloudy dishes and incomplete cycles? A faulty turbidity sensor could be the culprit. Don’t worry—our step-by-step guide and handy how-to video below will walk you through replacing it yourself, so you can get back to experiencing sparkling results in no time!

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

Is your GE dishwasher acting up? You might need to replace the turbidity sensor.

This sensor is a water quality monitor that detects small food particles in the rinse water while the dishwasher is running. The sensor determines if the water is clear enough for the rinse cycle to end so all that’s left is sparkling clean dishes.

With a few tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can replace the turbidity sensor yourself and get your dishwasher back in good shape. Let’s jump in!

You can find a replacement turbidity sensor here. If you need other replacement parts for your GE dishwasher, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

WATCH: How to replace the turbidity sensor on a dishwasher

Signs of a faulty turbidity sensor

• Incomplete or unsatisfactory rinsing results
• Cycles not advancing properly beyond the rinse stage
• Error codes corresponding to the turbidity sensor being displayed
• Mineral deposit buildup interfering with the sensor’s ability to transmit light through the water
• Electronic failure of the sensor

Keep safety first

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or parts. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

READ MORE: How to prevent appliance fire hazards

What you need

• 1/4-inch nut driver
• New turbidity sensor (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model before installing)

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

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How to replace the turbidity sensor

Ready…set…replace! Follow these tips to change out the sensor in your GE dishwasher.

Step 1: Access the turbidity sensor

The turbidity sensor is nestled inside your dishwasher, so you’ll need to remove the access panel to reach it.

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the dishwasher.
3. Use your 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws that hold the access panel in place. Take care not to lose any screws since you’ll need them later on.
4. Carefully pull out the access panel. Go slowly since there might be insulation behind the panel.
5. If you see some insulation material behind the panel, set it aside.

You should now have a clear view of the turbidity sensor. It’s typically mounted in the middle of the sump area, which is the lowest part of the dishwasher where water collects.

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Step 2: Remove the old turbidity sensor

1. Place a towel inside the dishwasher, directly below the turbidity sensor. This will catch any water that may spill out of the sump area while you’re removing the sensor.
2. Gently pull the sensor out just enough to access the locking tab. Then press the locking tab and detach the wiring harness from the sensor.
3. Unscrew the turbidity sensor by turning it counterclockwise.
4. Carefully pull the sensor out of the sump, along with the towel you placed earlier.

READ MORE: How to Clean a Dishwasher

Step 3: Install the new turbidity sensor

1. Wet the O-ring (rubber gasket) on the new turbidity sensor with a little water so it can slide into the sump easily.
2. Reconnect the wiring harness to the new sensor by aligning the connector and pushing it into place until you hear (or feel) it click.
3. Insert the new turbidity sensor into the sump. Push it in until it’s fully seated and make sure it’s not crooked or tilted.
4. Turn the new sensor clockwise until you feel it lock into position.

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Step 4: Reassemble the dishwasher

1. Carefully reposition the insulation material that you removed earlier. Make sure it’s tucked into the space behind the access panel area.
2. Reattach the access panel. Use your 1/4-inch nut driver to tighten the screws you removed earlier.
3. Take a moment to double-check your work. Make sure that all the screws are tightened, the access panel is secure, and there are no loose wires or parts inside the dishwasher.

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Finish up

You’re almost ready to put your dishwasher back to work. But before you do, button up the repair with these last few steps:

1. Plug the dishwasher back in.
2. Under the sink, turn the shutoff valve counterclockwise to open the water supply line going to the dishwasher.
3. Add some dishes or run an empty cycle to make sure the dishwasher is working correctly.

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More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the turbidity sensor in your GE dishwasher.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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