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DISHWASHER

Dishwasher Doesn’t Clean

Oleg Chudnovski, CEO

Technically Reviewed by Oleg Chudnovski, CEO on Feb 26, 2024 | Written by Fix Appliances CA Editorial Contributors

Authorized repair service for most home appliance manufacturers

When your dishwasher isn’t up to par in cleaning, it can be frustrating. Start by examining the dishwasher’s components, like the spray arms and filter, for any potential blockages or buildup. Routine maintenance and ensuring the use of quality detergent can go a long way in restoring its cleaning efficiency.

Read our article to learn more about what to do if your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes well and what you can do about it.

5 Common Dishwasher Problems If It Doesn’t Clean Properly

Is your dishwasher not cleaning properly? It’s so frustrating, but contacting a service company for a dishwasher repair service can help. However, the good news is that you can also repair the dishwasher yourself. You don’t have to be handy to do it. All you need is to check the following parts and fix them. The problem will be solved.

Cause 1: Upper Discharge Housing Gasket

If the spray arms produce a low pressure, the problem source could be the upper discharge housing gasket. This is situated on the discharge cover. The housing gasket may have become loose, or it may require replacement. If you need to replace the gasket, ensure no debris or crud could bar the gasket from fitting well.

Cause 2: Spray Arm

The upper, lower, and middle spray arms could be the source of the problem. The work of these arms is to spray dishes with a strong spray of detergent and water. Investigate to ensure the spray arms can move freely and the dishes are not distracting. The bearing ring of the spray arms could have become loose or worn out, preventing proper dishwashing as the spray arms become wobbly.

Also, check the spray arms for plugged holes or cracks. Glass, cellophane, toothpicks, food particles and other debris may block the holes in the spray arms, causing impaired force or spray direction. If you find some holes plugged in, check also the filter system as it could have a problem. Separated seams or cracks in the spray arms can also reduce the spray force.

Dishwasher Doesn’t Clean

Cause 3: Docking Station

This is located at the rear end of the dishwasher, and its work is to supply water to the spray arm that is in the middle. Make sure the station is connected well to the tube that supplies water. Inspect its flappers and make sure they can move freely and that they close well and won’t allow pressure loss when the supply tube of the middle spray is not inserted. Check if there are cracks in the plastic pieces; if need be, replace them.

Cause 4: Chopper

The chopper is probably causing you to consider contacting a dishwasher repair. Why? Well, its work is to cut food particles into very tiny parts so that they can easily go through the drain area of the dishwasher pump. If the chopper is not cutting the pieces finely, it can prevent dirty water from draining and instead cause it to recirculate in the dishwater. So inspect the drain area of your dishwasher and remove any debris there may be. If not, check the chopper, as it may be damaged.

Cause 5: Water Inlet Valve

Of the many dishwasher parts, the most common to fail is the water inlet valve. If it’s not supplying enough water in the tub, it can be the reason the dishwasher is not washing dishes properly. You need to replace the valves when you realize that they are not restricted and power is supplied at the right time.

Other dishwasher parts that may necessitate repairs are the water delivery tube, the filters, the wash spinner, the detergent dispenser, the heating element and the pump impellers. If you don’t find any problem in the parts we have discussed above, it’s time to seek help from a professional specialist from our company “near me” location.

Whenever you have a question about the proper use of your machine or if you need service for an appliance breakdown, contact FIX Appliances CA. Our skilled technicians are available for immediate service whenever you need them, and every dishwasher repair is covered by a service and parts warranty for your peace of mind. Please get in touch with us today at 1-888-242-0777 for a same-day service.

Date of page creation: September 27, 2017

Page update date: February 26, 2024

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What Our Customers Say About Us

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The technician was super punctual. He was really friendly and professional. He assessed the problem and suggested the proper steps to take to fix the issue with our dishwasher. I would definitely call again for future appliance fixes. Thank you.

rating  therazz8, Mississauga
therazz8, Mississauga
March 18, 2024

Work was completed by Dina on our dishwasher that would not drain. Dima was very professional and friendly. Dima explained everything to us in a clear manner and also discussed our options with us. 100 percent satisfied with the service call.

rating  Coach K., Newmarket
Coach K., Newmarket
January 20, 2024

FAQ: Top Frequently Asked Questions

If your dishwasher isn't cleaning dishes well, it could be due to several factors. It's essential to check the spray arms, filter, and other components for blockages or damage. Routine maintenance and using quality detergent can also make a significant difference in cleaning efficiency.
Low pressure in the spray arms could be caused by issues with the upper discharge housing gasket. This gasket, located on the discharge cover, might have become loose or require replacement. Ensure there are no debris or obstructions preventing the gasket from fitting properly.
The upper, lower, and middle spray arms in your dishwasher can be a source of cleaning problems. Check to ensure these arms can move freely and are not obstructed by dishes. Look for loose or worn-out bearing rings in the spray arms and check for plugged holes or cracks. Debris in the holes can impede spray force, and separated seams or cracks can reduce efficiency.
The docking station supplies water to the middle spray arm in your dishwasher. Make sure it's connected correctly to the water supply tube. Check the flappers for free movement and proper closure to prevent pressure loss. Inspect the plastic components for cracks and replace them if necessary.
The chopper's role is to cut food particles into small pieces for easy draining. If it's not cutting properly, dirty water can recirculate in the dishwasher instead of draining. Inspect the drain area for debris, and if none is found, check the chopper for damage. If needed, replace the chopper to improve dishwasher performance.

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