What 16 / 18 Means
Codes 16 and 18 both report the washer not draining on the GTW chart. These numeric codes come from the GTW-series GE top-load washer chart - the impeller and agitator top-loaders with a locking lid. They are read out of the control in a service mode, so the same number means something different on GE front-load machines. Water is not leaving the basket as the control expects, so the cycle stops before the spin and the load stays soaking.
Common Causes of 16 / 18
- Kinked drain hose or hose pushed too deep into the standpipe
- Blocked standpipe or slow house drain
- Object jamming the drain pump
- Failed drain pump
- Wiring or control fault to the pump
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Switch the washer off. Check the drain hose behind the machine for kinks, make sure it is not pushed far down the standpipe, and pour a bucket of water down the standpipe to see how quickly it clears. On models with an accessible pump filter, clean it following your manual, with a tray and towels ready. Then run a Drain & Spin.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- None for the drain hose and standpipe checks.
- Pump access on a top-loader usually means tipping the machine with water still inside, which is where floors and supply lines get damaged.
- Damage caused during a repair attempt may not be covered - check your warranty terms first.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.