With years of experience repairing thousands of dishwashers, we’ve uncovered recurring issues that plague virtually every make and model. Regardless of brand, age, or price point, certain faults persistently manifest themselves.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the top three most common problems encountered in dishwashers, shedding light on these ubiquitous issues and offering practical insights for troubleshooting and repair.
1. The most common problem with a dishwasher is a clogged filter.
Most dishwashers feature a filter designed to trap food particles and other debris. This crucial component prevents food particles from circulating during the dishwasher cycle and potentially adhering to clean dishes. However, it necessitates regular cleaning to prevent clogs and maintain optimal dishwasher performance.
To begin, locate the dishwasher filter positioned at the bottom of the appliance, beneath the bottom rack. Pull out the rack and search for the filter, typically situated in one of the back corners of the dishwasher tub or around the base of the bottom spray arm. Unlock the filter by twisting it and gently remove it from the machine. It may consist of two parts: a tube and a flat filter beneath it.
Inspect the filter for any clogs, indicated by visible food particles, soil, or other debris trapped in the fine mesh. Clean the dishwasher filter by hand in your kitchen sink, rinsing it under running water to remove any visible debris. Stubborn lime scale and food residue may require dish soap and a soft sponge for thorough cleaning.
For particularly stubborn residue, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for approximately 15 minutes before gently scrubbing both the inside and outside with a soft brush. Handle with care to avoid damaging the filter mesh.
Once cleaned, reinsert the dishwasher filter into its original position and twist to lock.
The frequency of dishwasher filter cleaning depends on your household’s usage. Typically, cleaning once a month is sufficient for most households.
2. Another common problem is the dishwasher not draining properly.
Various factors can contribute to this issue, ranging from a simple blockage to a faulty component requiring replacement to restore proper drainage and functionality. If your dishwasher’s filter is blocked, refer to the previous section for guidance on addressing this common issue.
Occasionally, glass or other foreign objects may break inside the dishwasher, resulting in small solid debris entering the drain pump outlet. Any broken glass or debris obstructing the drain pump typically settles around the impeller. If the drain pump motor malfunctions, the dishwasher will fail to drain.
We can disassemble your dishwasher to access and clear any blockages in the pump, which may help if the motor remains undamaged. However, debris can become lodged within the motor itself, potentially leading to complete motor failure over time. It’s crucial to note that drain pump motors are not repairable. If the drain pump is defective, it must be replaced to restore proper drainage and functionality.
3. Dishwasher not starting or failing to turn on is another common problem.
Several factors could contribute to this issue. When your dishwasher refuses to start, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take before reaching out to our dishwasher repair experts.
First, ensure that the dishwasher is securely plugged into an outlet and that the plug hasn’t become dislodged. Additionally, check to see if the dishwasher door is firmly closed. If the door fails to latch and close properly, the appliance won’t start as a safety precaution.
After attempting these preliminary steps and the issue persists, it’s advisable to contact one of our engineers. A professional appliance repair technician can thoroughly assess the problem and determine whether it can be resolved or if it’s time to consider replacing the dishwasher.
Schedule your dishwasher repair with us today
When your dishwasher grinds to a halt, disrupting your daily routine, there’s no need to panic. Our expert technicians specialise in repairing dishwashers of all makes and models, ensuring that your kitchen remains a hub of cleanliness and efficiency.
Don’t let a malfunctioning dishwasher dampen your spirits or pile up your workload. Trust our professionals to diagnose and resolve the issue swiftly, restoring your appliance to its former glory. Contact us now to schedule your repair and enjoy sparkling clean dishes once more!
