What to check, in order
- Try the drain again
Press Start to resume the cycle, or select Drain & Spin and press Start. Pauses of up to 3 minutes between parts of a cycle are normal on many models, so give it a few minutes.
- Check the drain hose
Look for a kinked, pinched or flattened section.
- Look inside the hose
If it still won't drain, unplug the washer, take the drain hose off the back of the machine and out of the plumbing, and check it for a clog.
- Test the standpipe
Pour a quart (about 1 litre) of water into the standpipe or drain. If it won't go down, the blockage is in the house plumbing and GE recommends a plumber.
- Check the height
Most GE full-size washers pump up to 8 ft (2.44 m) above the floor, and compact or portable models up to 5 ft (1.5 m).
When to call an engineer
If the hose and the drain are clear and it still won't pump out, GE says service is needed. The same goes for a washer that hums while it's full of water.
Parts people end up buying
Only if the checks above point to a part. Match it to your model number first: it's on a label inside the door, around the door frame or on the back.
- Washer drain hoseSearch on Amazon
Affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. It never changes a verdict.
Quick answers
What does the GE Po error code mean?
On 2015 and newer top-loaders, Po scrolling on the display, or a flashing Rinse light, means the washer took too long to pump the water out. There may be a clog.
Can I fix GE Po myself?
Easy (about 20 minutes). Start with: try the drain again; check the drain hose; look inside the hose. If the hose and the drain are clear and it still won't pump out, GE says service is needed. The same goes for a washer that hums while it's full of water.
Is GE Po worth repairing?
Usually free. It's usually a kinked hose or a clog you can reach.
Checked against
- GE Appliances: top-load washer will not drain
- GE Appliances: washer FAQs
- GE Appliances: top-load washer owner's manual 49-3000255, GE and Hotpoint models (PDF)
Last reviewed October 2026. Manufacturers update their pages, and your manual is the final word. Spotted a mistake? Email contact@appliance-error-codes.com.