Troubleshooting a Dishwasher that Doesn't Clean Dishes

Troubleshooting dishwasher problems can save you the necessity of calling an expensive repair professional. Dishwasher problems can often be the cause of your dishes not being cleaned efficiently, but by taking the time to examine problem areas thoroughly, you can easily fix a dishwasher yourself.

Cycle Buttons

One of the main reasons dishes will not clean properly is because the dishwasher has not been put on the right setting. Check that you are applying the settings in relation to the load inside so the dishwasher will perform a full clean cycle each time. Incorrectly setting the dishwasher will mean that it does not clean as powerfully or for as long as it should. The cycle button on the dishwasher should always be turned to the correct position.

Check Components

Check the sprayer arm and filter which will be located at the bottom of the inside of the dishwasher. There could be pieces of dirt, old food or bits of material clogging up these areas. If either of these parts are obstructed, it will mean the power of the water is less effective. The water could also be dirty when it is sprayed around the dishwasher due to the excess food or dirt inside. This will re-stain your dishes as well as partly cleaning them at the same time. Also check the spinning blade which spreads out the water to check that it is not stuck or obstructed.

Uninstall

Unscrew the small cap or caps which hold the sprayer arm and the large screen at the base of the dishwasher and remove both. This area may not be obstructed by dirt and food but it may have fallen victim to general wear and tear and may not function as efficiently. Replacing the sprayer arm and the large screen with new components should result in powerfully jetted and clean water. This should quickly solve the problem of dirty dishes and means the dishwasher will function as good as new.

Pressure

Problems with the water pressure can lead to a number of errors when it comes to cleaning dishes. Low pressure will mean the dishwasher is not filling with water properly. Pressure problems can also lead the dishwasher to shake which could throw plates around against important parts of the interior. Check the rubber pipes or tubes which feed water into the dishwasher and make sure they are free of debris that could be causing air bubbles to form. Turn the dishwasher on after you have done this and wait to see if there are any signs of shaking or rattling.

Dispenser

Gently uninstall the detergent dispenser, which will commonly be fixed to the inside of the dishwasher door. Check that you can open and close it correctly using the small lock that keeps it shut. Once you have removed the small compartment, check the surrounding area for signs of corrosion or damage. Give this area a thorough clean and remove any corrosion with wire wool. Replace the dispenser with a new one and this should mix with the water efficiently to give you squeaky clean dishes.