How to Troubleshoot Dishwashers

Troubleshooting a dishwasher need not be left to the professionals. All it takes is some general understanding of the appliance and patience. What follows are some common dishwasher problems along with tips on how to fix them.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Dishwasher Does Not Run

1. Make sure the power is on, door is latched and controls are set properly.

2. Look to see if the door switch, timer or selector switch are defective. Solve this problem by using a screwdriver to adjust the door latch's strike slightly.

3. Confirm that the power cord is plugged into the electrical outlet under the sink (if applicable).

Dishwasher Won't Fill

1. Check your hot water supply stop valve under the sink. Turn it counter clockwise to ensure that it is open.

2. Turn off the power and wait for your dishwasher to cool.

3. Look inside for a float located at the base of the unit. Lift out the float device and clean around the tube. Rinse off the float and reattach it making sure it moves up and down freely.

Dishwasher Doesn't Drain

1. Remove the air gap cover (short chrome cylinder located at the back of your sink) and clean it using a wire.

2. Check the drain hose for kinks and blockages.

3. Shut off the power to your dishwasher and remove the strainer located at the base of the cabinet under the bottom spray arm. Scrub it clean then reattach it to the appliance.

Dishwasher Leaves Film on the Dishes

1. Add a rinse additive to your washing cycle and see if this solves the problem. In addition, do not pre-rinse your dishes prior to placing them into the dishwasher. Food particles allow the detergent and drying agents to work more effectively.

2. Listen to the spray arms during a wash cycle. If they appear to be moving too slowly, use a wire to clean out the spray holes.

3. Make sure the dishes haven't blocked the detergent dispenser or jammed the spray arms.

Dishwasher Leaks

1. Cut back on the amount of detergent used during the wash cycle. Sometimes this alone will solve your problem.

2. Make sure the appliance is level by adjusting the front feet up or down.

3. Take off the lower front panel and check the hoses for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Always unplug and shut off any power to the unit before attempting to troubleshoot a dishwasher.

• Make sure the hot water supply is shut off before working on the supply valve or hoses.

• Wait until the unit cools before working on the inside of the dishwasher.