Two year old Whirlpool dishwasher isn't cleaning, rinsing, or heating

Model # WDF510PAYWA Whirlpool dishwasher. Purchased in September 2013. We use the Kirkland dry pods from Costco and a drying agent (don't remember the brand). The problem has progressively gotten worse and worse.

- It doesn't heat like it used to. In the past we would have to keep our toddler away from the front vent; now it barely heats up at all.

- The dishes do not come out dry. The bottom rack is much dryer, if not completely dry. But the top rack dishes always need to be dried by hand after a cycle.

- There seems to be a good amount of water in the bottom mid-cycle, but at the end of the cycle there are soap suds in the bottom.

I checked the drain and arms for blockage, all clear. The dishwasher is right next to the sink, which gets very hot water. All the control panel lights work normally.

I'd like to get more specific feedback than a Google search. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

http://www.whirlpool.com/contact-us/

Contact them directly.

 

Welcome to the forums.

The fact that you have soap suds left in the bottom tells me you have a drain issue.

The first thing to check is to make sure the drain line is installed correctly. It should be fastened up high and just under the countertop. The diagram illustrates this.

 

I tried contacting Whirlpool. They don't give advice, only send out servicemen. That defeats the purpose of doing it myself.

I'll check the drain line when I get home today. I did notice that there was occasionally water leaking out of the top out thingy on the sink... Thoughts on that? I'll get back to you on what the drain looks like.

 

Do you make sure the disposal is clear of food scraps prior to running the dishwasher. Could be a partial cause of leakage through the air gap.

 

So much for my idea. Most companies are more helpful than that. I would start a Whirlpool boycott.

 

You have an air gap, which is required in California.
A common mistake when installing an air gap is to have a dip in the 7/8" hose running from air gap to disposer or branch tailpiece. This dip will get clogged and prevent DW from draining properly.

Replace the 7/8" (I.D.) hose. It's a little tricky because the hose is stiff and the air gap body is not very strong. Alignment is critical to avoid the dip.