The dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances that makes things easier to handle in the kitchen. Cleaning dinnerware and utensils can be a breeze with dishwashers, even if you’re eating meals with family or celebrating with a small group at home. Dishwashers allow you to save time and effort, which is why you should ensure they are working correctly.
A simple way to stay on top of dishwasher maintenance is by identifying the most common dishwasher problems and what you can do to solve them.
1. The Dishes Won’t Dry
One of the most common problems with dishwashers is that the dishes won’t dry. This can be caused by several factors, but the most common culprit is a dirty filter. A dishwasher filter can become clogged with food debris, grease, and soap scum, which prevents hot air from circulating and drying the dishes.
To clean a dishwasher filter, simply remove it and soak it in a bowl of hot water and vinegar for 30 minutes. Then, rinse it off and replace it.
2. The Dishes Won’t Clean Up
If the dishes in your dishwasher are not coming out clean after a cycle, there are several things that could be causing the problem.
First, make sure that you are using the correct detergent and that it is properly dissolved in hot water before adding it to the dishwasher. If you are using a powder detergent, add it to the pre-wash cycle, so it has time to dissolve.
Second, check the spray arms to ensure they are not clogged with food or grease. To clean them, remove them and soak them in a bowl of hot water and vinegar for 30 minutes. Then, rinse them off and replace them.
Finally, run a maintenance cycle with hot water and vinegar once a month to help prevent build-up on your dishwasher’s interior surfaces.
3. The Buttons Don’t Work
There could be several reasons why the buttons on your dishwasher are not working.
First, ensure the power cord is plugged into an outlet and the dishwasher is turned on. Second, check the circuit breaker if it has been tripped. If so, reset it and try again. Third, check the door latch to make sure it is engaged. If not, engage it and try again.
Finally, if all else fails, call a certified technician for assistance.
4. The Lights On The Dishwasher Unit Keeps Flashing
If the lights on your dishwasher keep flashing, it could indicate a problem with the electrical supply to the dishwasher.
First, check if the power cord is plugged into an outlet and the dishwasher is powered on. Second, check the circuit breaker to ensure it has not been tripped. If it has, reset it and try again. Third, check for loose wires or connections in the electrical panel. If you find any, tighten or replace them when necessary.
5. There Are Food Crumbs In The Dishes
There are a few things that could be causing food crumbs on the dishes.
First, make sure that the dishwasher is properly loaded. Dishes should not be stacked on top of each other, and they should not block the spray arms. Second, check the filters to ensure they are clean and not clogged with food particles.
To clean the filters, remove them and soak them in a bowl of hot water and vinegar for 30 minutes. Moreover, run a maintenance cycle with the same solution to clean the dishwasher’s interiors.
6. The Cycle Lasts Too Long
If the dishwasher cycle lasts too long, a few things could be causing the issue.
First, check if the water supply line is kinked or blocked. This can restrict water flow and cause the dishwasher to take longer to fill up. Next, check the filters and make sure they are clean. Clogged filters can also restrict water flow and cause longer cycle times. Finally, make sure that the dishwasher is properly loaded and that nothing is blocking the spray arms.
7. The Dispenser Fails To Administer Soap
The most obvious reason why your dishwasher dispenser is failing to administer soap is that the detergent cup is not opening. This can be caused by a variety of things, including a clogged detergent cup or a malfunctioning dispenser assembly.
If the detergent cup is clogged, try cleaning it with vinegar and water. If the dispenser assembly is malfunctioning, you may need to replace it.
8. The Dishwasher Makes Too Much Noise
If your dishwasher is making too much noise, it could be due to a variety of things. The culprit may be a loose part in the dishwasher. Tighten any loose parts and see if that solves the problem.
Another possibility is that the dishwasher’s motor is going bad. If this is the case, you will need to replace the motor.
9. The Dishwasher Won’t Start
If your dishwasher doesn’t start, it could be because the door is not closed properly. Make sure the door is shut all the way and that nothing is blocking it from closing.
Another possibility is that the dishwasher isn’t getting power. Check to ensure the dishwasher is plugged in, and there is the power to the outlet.
If neither of these solutions solves the problem, you may need to call a repairman.
10. The Dishes Smell Bad
If your dishwasher smells bad, it could be because there’s food trapped in the drain hose or food trap. To clean the drain hose, disconnect it from the garbage disposal or sink and run hot water through it for a few minutes.
11. The Dishwasher Leaks
Water leaking from your dishwasher can be caused by various things, including a faulty door seal or a clogged drain hose. Inspect the door seal and drain hose for leaks and replace them if necessary.
12. The Water Won’t Drain
Another common problem with dishwashers is that they leave water spots on dishes. This is usually caused by hard water, which leaves mineral deposits on dishes after they’ve been washed. To prevent this problem, use distilled water in your dishwasher or install a water softener in your home’s plumbing system.
Keep Your Dishwasher Up And Running
Dishwashers are home essentials, so you should prioritize preventive maintenance. This short guide on common problems and their solutions is an excellent way to start taking care of them better.
If your dishwasher is troubling you and you need to have it dealt with professionally, let Asurion repair handle it for you. Asurion is committed to quality appliance repair, so you can expect our expert technicians to manage your dishwasher problems efficiently. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
