By: Jaceson Maughan
Dishwasher troubleshooting can help diagnose what might be wrong with one of the most-used kitchen appliances. When the dishwasher stops working, there's no need to call a repair service immediately. Serious dishwasher repairs are best left to a professional, but there are some things any homeowner can do to troubleshoot and fix a dishwasher.
- If nothing happens when the dishwasher is turned on, check the cord under the sink to make sure it's plugged in, then check the breaker to be sure there's power. If the juice is flowing, see if the door latch isn't completely engaged. These can get bent over time and fail to lock into place. If the latch looks good, other dishwasher parts, such as the timer motor or selector switch, might be the culprit. Call a professional for these repairs.
- If the dishwasher won't fill with water, there's something wrong with the water supply. Make sure that the hot-water supply valve is on. Clean around the float tube (a small plastic cylinder inside the tub) and clean the water intake valve (behind the bottom front panel).
- When draining is an issue, the drain pump, hoses or drain lines are not working well. Check the drain hose for kinks and use a wire to clear any blockages. Examine the sink trap for clogs and clean out the strainer. If the dishwasher is brand new, check the knockout plug at the garbage disposal. For older dishwashers, look for buildup near the drain pump.
- When the dishes just aren't getting clean, ensure that they are loaded correctly. Hard-water mineral buildup can also clog jets, so clean them out with a stiff piece of wire.
- Abnormal noises coming from the dishwasher can come from several causes. Inspect the opening around the pump for debris, such as silverware or broken glass. Thunking sounds could mean that it's time to replace the water inlet valve.
- When the dishwasher leaks, locate the source. If the water is coming from the door and puddling in front, the door gasket needs to be replaced. Water that comes from under the dishwasher may be a leaky or loose hose. Corrosion may also be a factor in older dishwashers.
- Film or spots on the dishes can mean a wide range of issues. The hot water temperature in the heater may not be hot enough; adjust it a few degrees higher. Hard water could also be making unsightly spots. Try a detergent for hard water or use a supplemental product that provides sheeting action to protect dishes.
