Things You'll Need:
- screwdrivers
- a pipe wrench
- pliers
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Step 1
If the dishwasher will not start at all a number of things could be to blame. It is important to work through these possible problems one at a time to isolate the issue and resolve it. If your dishwasher is getting no power the best place to start is at the fuse box. Check for a blown fuse, and also check for a tripped circuit breaker. If everything looks good look next at the latch that holds the dishwasher closed. If this latch is worn or misaligned it could fool the dishwasher into thinking that the door is ajar, preventing it from running.
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Step 2
If the dishwasher is running but the appliance is not filling with water start by checking the water supply. Keep in mind that the water supply for the dishwasher may be under the sink. If you are sure that water is flowing carefully check the fill tube that runs into the dishwasher itself. If that tube is clogged or kinked it could stop the water from flowing.
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Step 3
When the dishwasher fills with water but does not drain the first place to look is the drain tube. If this tube is blocked, or even kinked, it could prevent water from flowing out of the appliance. A faulty drain valve could cause the same symptoms, as could a jammed motor or a weak pump.
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Step 4
If the dishwasher appears to function normally but does not clean the dishes the way it did when it was new it is important to look at a number of things. One of the most common causes of inferior cleaning is a blocked or clogged detergent cup. If sufficient detergent cannot get to the dishes the cleaning action will be limited. Simply cleaning the cup with warm water may alleviate the problem. Other common causes of cleaning problems include blocked and worn filters, so it pays to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for filter removal and replacement.
