Dishwasher not working? You can Fix it!

by Jan Kennemer 09/22/2019

Many rely on dishwashers to get the dirty job of wiping dishes done easily without them having to soil their hands. Dishwashers, like other home hardware, are not everlasting. The can break down at any time, both before and even after the specified warranty period.

While some try to find out how much the warranty can cover in the situations of faults, others give up before they are given up on. DIY methods become the go-to option.

If you choose the DIY option, it is necessary you understand some common problems dishwashers are prone to and how to fix them without any hassle. Moreover, that is what this post will address.

The dishwasher doesn't start

There are many reasons your dishwasher won't start. They range from power problems to improper use of the dishwasher. Check the power outlet and the dishwasher's cable to make sure a fuse isn't blown, and the outlet is in good shape. If the device still doesn't run, see if the dishwasher door is tightly closed, it could also be the reason your machine won't start. 

Washed dishes coming out dirty

This is, perhaps, the most familiar dishwasher problem. Many things contribute to the residue left on your dishes when they come out from the machine. It could be that a utensil is caught up somewhere in the washer and is stopping the motion of spray arms.

Also, loading dishes without scraping leftover food from the surface can also contribute to the problem. So far, these problems have to do with the user of the machine. Sometimes, the machine itself can cause the coating of dishes with more residues than they went in with. In such a case, it could be that the spray arms are stuck with dirt or that the door gasket is clogged with dirt too. Check the drainage to be double sure.

Dishes don't come out dried

When your dishwasher doesn't dry your dishes after washing them, then the device's heating element might have developed a fault. Curbing this problem is easy. All you have to do is to ensure the heating element; a thermostat is working perfectly. If it's not, a replacement or professional repair should be called for. However, if the thermostat is not malfunctioning and the dishwasher is still not drying your dishes, inspect the rinse aid dispenser. The dishes won't dry with an empty dispenser.

Awful smell from the dishwasher

The dishwasher does many dirty jobs, and without proper cleaning, wet food residues can accumulate and ooze a bad smell. These odors can be avoided by cleaning your dishwasher's screen and rinsing your dishes before loading them in the machine.

About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.