If your dishwasher isn't getting the job done and you're tired of pulling out dishes that still have food stuck to them, you're not alone. A malfunctioning dishwasher can turn a simple task into a big headache! Fortunately, most cleaning issues can be traced to some common culprits, and many can be resolved without a service call. But when DIY fixes don't cut it, our service team at Dick Van Dyke Appliance World is always here to help! Let's take a look at what might be going wrong with your dishwasher and what you can do about it.
1. Blocked Spray Arms
The spray arms in your dishwasher are like little water cannons blasting away at your dishes. But they can't do their job if they're clogged with food bits or hard water gunk! That means your dishes get a weak spray, leaving you with dirty plates.
- What to check: Open your dishwasher and check the spray arms (usually found at the bottom and sometimes in the middle). Look for any blockages in the arm's small holes.
- How to fix it: Most spray arms can be easily removed—just twist or pop them off. Rinse them under water and use a toothpick or small brush to clean out any debris. If some of the buildup is from hard water, soak them in a bit of vinegar. Once they're clean, put them back in, and you're back in business!
Pro Tip:
If you’ve cleaned the spray arms and your dishwasher still isn’t spraying water properly, there could be a deeper mechanical issue with the pump or motor. That’s when it’s time to call in a service team like ours.
2. Improper Loading
We've all been guilty of stuffing the dishwasher to the brim, but overloading or misplacing items can block water from getting to everything and stop the detergent from dispensing correctly.
- What to check: Take a second to look at how you're loading your dishwasher. Are dishes stacked on top of each other? Are big items blocking the spray arms or the detergent dispenser?
- How to fix it: Try rearranging your dishes so they don't overlap too much. Keep large items to the sides or the back, and make sure there's space between everything so the water can flow freely. Less is more when it comes to getting those dishes sparkling clean!
3. Dirty Filters
Your dishwasher has filters to catch leftover food particles, but if those filters get clogged, water won't circulate well—and neither will the cleaning power.
- What to check: Most filters are at the bottom of the dishwasher. Look under the bottom rack to see if the filter is caked with food or grease.
- How to fix it: Pop the filter out, rinse it under warm water, and scrub away any buildup with a soft brush. Clean filters mean cleaner dishes, so try to do this at least once a month to keep things running smoothly.
4. Low Water Temperature
Dishwashers need hot water—like really hot—to break down grease and grime. If the water isn't hot enough, your dishwasher might not be able to do its job properly.
- What to check: Run your kitchen faucet for a minute to see how hot the water gets. If it's only lukewarm, your dishwasher probably isn't getting the heat it needs.
- How to fix it: Make sure your water heater is set to at least 120°F. If it's already set correctly, run the hot water in your sink for a minute before starting the dishwasher. This ensures hot water is ready to go from the start.
5. Faulty Detergent Dispenser
It goes without saying that if the detergent isn't released during the cycle, your dishes won't get cleaned. Sometimes, the dispenser can get jammed, or the latch might be broken, keeping the detergent from doing its job.
- What to check: After the cycle, check if the detergent pod or powder is still in the dispenser. If it is, the dispenser might not be working right.
- How to fix it: Give the dispenser a good cleaning to ensure it's not stuck. If it's still not working after that, it might be time to call in a pro to replace the latch or the entire dispenser.
6. Clogged Drain
A clogged drain can leave standing water in your dishwasher, which means your dishes are getting washed in dirty water—yuck! Not the best recipe for clean plates!
- What to check: If you see water pooled at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle, the drain is probably clogged with food, grease, or something else.
- How to fix it: Clear out the drain at the bottom of the dishwasher by removing any visible debris. If the clog is deeper in the system and won't clear, it might be time to call a professional for help.
Pro Tip:
If you can’t easily clear the clog or if water is still backing up, it’s likely there’s a deeper issue with the drain hose or plumbing. Let a service team (like us) take a look to prevent further damage!
7. Hard Water Buildup
Hard water can leave mineral deposits inside your dishwasher and on your dishes, making them look cloudy and unclean. It can also clog up parts of the machine, making it impossible for the dishwasher to operate correctly.
- What to check: If your dishes look cloudy or spotty, and you notice white, chalky buildup inside your dishwasher, hard water might be to blame.
- How to fix it: Use a dishwasher cleaner designed to tackle hard water deposits. Adding a rinse aid to every load can also help keep your dishes clear.
Pro Tip:
If mineral buildup has caused significant damage to your dishwasher’s internal components, or if regular cleaners aren’t helping, a professional service call can assess whether parts need replacement or if a water softener is recommended.
Keeping Your Dishwasher in Top Shape
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your dishwasher can keep it running efficiently and prevent many common issues. Simple tasks like clearing spray arms, checking the filter, and ensuring proper loading can go a long way in improving performance. However, if you run into a problem that goes beyond routine maintenance, don't hesitate to service team for help from Dick Van Dyke Appliance World 's team of experts. A well-functioning dishwasher saves you time and hassle, so it's worth ensuring it stays in great shape for years to come!