What To Know About 5 Common Dishwater Problems



Owning a dishwasher can be a true time-saver in any household, and like any appliance, it can encounter issues. We’ll discuss what to know about five common dishwasher problems. Understanding these issues will help you identify what might be going wrong with your dishwasher and provide you with potential solutions to ensure your appliance is back up and running smoothly.

Dishwasher Not Draining

One of the most common problems you might face is your dishwasher not draining. This issue is usually a sign of a blockage somewhere in the system, often in the drain hose or the pump. Food debris, grease, or other elements might be the culprits behind this. You may see water at the bottom of the machine after it has completed a cycle if your dishwasher isn’t draining. While it’s normal for a small amount of water to remain, a substantial amount is a clear sign of a problem.

Dishes Not Drying

Another frequently encountered issue is the dishes not drying properly. Removing damp or even wet dishes after a cycle could indicate a malfunction in the heating element or the rinse aid dispenser. The heating element is responsible for raising the temperature inside the dishwasher to evaporate the water. At the same time, the rinse aid helps to reduce the water’s surface tension, allowing it to slide off the dishes more easily. It’s also possible that the dishwasher’s vent could be stuck, preventing steam from escaping.

Dishwasher Leaking Water

A water leak is another problem that can surface with your dishwasher, and it’s often a sign of a faulty door seal, also known as the gasket. The gasket creates a waterproof seal around the dishwasher’s door when closed. With time and use, this seal can wear out or become damaged, causing water to leak out during a wash cycle. Check the gasket for any signs of wear and tear, like cracks, and consider replacing it if you notice any leaks.

Dishwasher Won’t Start

A dishwasher that won’t start can be a significant concern for homeowners. This issue can have many potential causes, ranging from a simple lack of power to more complex internal issues. The most common reason could be a problem with the door latch or door latch switch, which ensures the door closes properly before the dishwasher starts its cycle. The dishwasher won’t start if it doesn’t recognize that the door is shut. Likewise, a malfunctioning timer or selector switch could also be the culprit.

Dishwasher Not Cleaning

Homeowners’ fifth common problem with their dishwashers is that it is not cleaning their dishes properly. This issue usually indicates a clogged or malfunctioning spray arm, a crucial component responsible for spraying water and detergent onto the dishes. Over time, food debris can accumulate in the small holes of the spray arm, obstructing the water flow and consequently reducing the cleaning efficiency.

Now that you know the five common problems homeowners face with dishwashers, you can take the necessary steps to identify and troubleshoot these issues in your home. Contact Local Home Appliance today for appliance repair in Cary, IL. Do not hesitate to seek professional help if a problem persists despite your best efforts.