What to check, in order
- Clean the drain pump filter
Follow the directions in your Owner's Manual. Restrictions are often caused by loose items caught in the filter.
- Check the drain hose
Make sure it isn't pushed too far down into the standpipe. That can stop the Combo draining properly.
When to call an engineer
If the filter and the hose are clear and 18 keeps coming back, GE recommends scheduling a repair.
Good to know
- When the Combo senses a restriction in the drain area, it may also scroll a message asking you to check and clean the pump filter.
Quick answers
What does the GE 18 error code mean?
On the GE Profile UltraFast Combo washer-dryer, 18 means the pump filter needs cleaning. You may also notice very wet loads after washing, or longer drying times.
Can I fix GE 18 myself?
Easy (about 20 minutes). Start with: clean the drain pump filter; check the drain hose. If the filter and the hose are clear and 18 keeps coming back, GE recommends scheduling a repair.
Is GE 18 worth repairing?
Usually free. Cleaning the filter costs nothing, and it's the fix GE gives.
Checked against
Last reviewed October 2026. Manufacturers update their pages, and your manual is the final word. Spotted a mistake? Email contact@appliance-error-codes.com.