How to Unclog a Dishwasher Intake

Unclog the dishwasher intake to get your machine running efficiently again.

A hammering or knocking sound coming from your dishwasher as it runs could be an indication of a clogged dishwasher intake. The intake is where the water is pulled into the dishwasher for washing. Most washers employ a small screen in the inlet valve to help filter out sediment and other materials in the water. After a period of time, this debris can clog up the dishwasher intake. Cleaning off the inlet screen should take care of this problem.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Towel
• Needle-nose pliers
• Small brush
• Pipe thread compound

Instructions

1. Turn off the power for the dishwasher. In most installations, this can be done by cutting the power off at the main circuit breaker. Locate the switch that controls the dishwasher and flip it to the "Off" setting.

2. Turn off the water supply for the dishwasher. Dishwashers are usually connected to the water supply at the nearest water inlet, which is typically at the kitchen sink. Trace the water supply hose leading from the dishwasher to where it meets the supply valve. Rotate the supply valve to the right to cut the water.

3. Remove the lower kick panel from the dishwasher. These are usually secured with screws at the side. On some dishwasher models, you may also need to remove the toe panel, located just underneath the kick panel.

4. Place a towel on the floor underneath the dishwasher. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the water supply hose coupling connecting the supply hose to the inlet.

5. Look for the two wires connected to the top of the water inlet. Make a note of which side of the inlet each wire is connected. Gently pull the wires off the terminals. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers, if needed.

6. Loosen the screws or nuts holding the inlet valve on the dishwasher chassis with a screwdriver or hex wrench. Gently pull the inlet valve away from the dishwasher so you can see the inlet.

7. Place a towel on the floor underneath the inlet valve. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the supply hose coupling and pull it out of the valve.

8. Pull out the inlet screen with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Rinse off the screen under warm water and brush out any debris with a brush. Replace the inlet screen.

9. Reconnect the inlet to the dishwasher body. Replace the wires on the proper terminals. Apply pipe thread compound to the inlet coupling and reconnect the water supply hose.

10. Replace the kick and toe panels. Secure with the screws. Turn on the water supply valve. Restore power to the dishwasher.

11. Run a load on the shortest washer cycle. Check that the dishwasher is filling properly.

References

• Repair Clinic: Dishwasher Troubleshooting
• Renovation-Headquarters: How To Repair a Slow Filling Dishwasher