At a Glance:
Common Dishwasher Problems & Solutions
Dishwasher Replacement Recommendations
Ways to Optimize Your Dishwashers Performance
How to Save on a New Dishwasher
There is nothing worse than a dishwasher not washing properly, and the prospect of having to fix or replace can be overwhelming. Today we are going to give you some tips on how to troubleshoot dishwashers not cleaning, and easy steps you can take to fix dishwashers not cleaning dishes well.
Explore Dishwashers at BlvdHome
Are you looking for a new dishwasher? Discover options from top brands like Bosch, Whirlpool, ZLINE, and more at BlvdHome today!
Shop DishwashersCommon Dishwasher Problems & Solutions
If you are experiencing issues with your dishwasher, let’s explore some options on how to fix dishwashers not cleaning dishes. Let’s take a look at some of the most common dishwasher problems homeowners face, and possible solutions you can take to fix them yourself.
Dishes are Not Getting Clean
If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes, take these steps to try and fix the problem:
➤ Check the spray arms, ensure that they are not clogged or blocked, and clean them if necessary.
➤ Verify that your water temperature is set to the manufacturer's recommended level for proper cleaning.
➤ Be sure that when loading your dishes, you are loading them in a way that allows the water to reach every surface of every dish, and that you are avoiding blocking the spray arms.
Leaking
If you find that your dishwasher is leaking water during the wash cycles, follow these simple steps to try and DIY the problem:
➤ First start by checking the door gasket, to ensure that it is not worn out or damaged. If so, this can be easily replaced.
➤ If your door gasket is intact, be sure to check the spray arms and inlet connections are securely fastened and not loose or damaged.
➤ After that, be sure to check the dishwasher tub to be sure there are no cracks. If damage is found, be sure to consult a professional for possible repair.
Making Unusual Noises
It can be unnerving to hear your dishwasher making unusual noises, but sometimes the fix is easier than you think. Follow these tips to fix odd noises coming from your dishwasher:
➤ Start by clearing any blockages that may be found in the spray arms, filter, or pump.
➤ Check all the screws, nuts, and bolts throughout your dishwasher to ensure that they are tightened securely.
➤ Be sure there are no worn-out parts inside your dishwasher. Certain parts like the washer impeller or motor bearings can wear out over time. If this is the case, consider replacing the damaged part.
Not Draining Properly
If your dishwasher is not draining properly, here are a few tips to alleviate the problem:
➤ Check the filter to be sure that it is not clogged, and if it is removing any debris that may be present.
➤ Next, check your drain hose to be sure there are no kinks or blockages so that water can pass through it properly.
➤ Lastly, check your drain pump for any blockages that may be present, and remove the debris. If your drain pump is damaged, replacing the pump is recommended.
Not Starting
Lastly, if you’re having trouble with your dishwasher not starting, be sure to follow these simple steps to get it starting properly:
➤ Be sure that the dishwasher is connected to a power source, and that the circuit breaker has not tripped.
➤ Verify that the door latch is engaging properly, and if not, adjust or replace the latch.
➤ Be sure that the control panel is not signifying any error codes, and if so, refer to the owner's manual for how to proceed with displayed codes.
→ Learn more: Black Dishwasher Styles to Accent Your Kitchen
Dishwasher Replacement Recommendations
Sometimes even after troubleshooting, dishwashers still need to be replaced. If you have a dishwasher not cleaning well, we have a couple of replacement options for you from reputable brands that create durable, high-quality appliances.
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop this KitchenAid® Dishwasher
If you have a KitchenAid dishwasher not cleaning, a possible replacement would be this KitchenAid 24" PrintShield Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher. It features a FreeFlex Third Rack, which can fit 6” glasses, mugs, and bowls, with its deep, angled design. The PrintShield Finish resists smudges, keeping your dishwasher always looking clean and pristine. Easily make room for additional dishes with the adjustable rows in the middle and lower racks, making easy configurations for oddly shaped dishware.
- Model: KDTM404KPS
- Dimensions: 33.5” H x 23.88” W x 26.75” D
- Dishwasher Type: Built-In
Customer reviews say, “We love this dishwasher. It cleans dishes great and it is very quiet. We had a previous KitchenAid dishwasher which was 15 years old and needed to be replaced. The new KitchenAid is SO much quieter that the previous one that sometimes, we're not sure if it is running.”
Whirlpool® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop this Whirlpool® Dishwasher
If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not cleaning, then consider this Whirlpool 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher. Featuring a third rack that makes hard-to-load utensils have a secure spot in your dishwasher, along with a middle rack that can handle taller dishes like wine glasses or bottles. The flexible three-piece silverware basket can easily be moved to accommodate your loading needs, or even separated to make more space.
- Model: WDT750SAKZ
- Dimensions: 33.44” H x 23.88” W x 26.5” D
- Dishwasher Type: Built-In
Customer reviews say, “I am very happy I selected this model and stainless steel finish. Besides it's high quality in cleaning dishes, kitchen ware and tools, it is easy to maintain its clean and new/shiny appearance! Great choice!”
Maytag® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
If you are dealing with a Maytag dishwasher not cleaning, then we recommend the Maytag 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher. With top controls that are smooth, feature tap-to-activate settings, and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, this dishwasher will stay looking sleek and new, after years of use. The End-of-Cycle Indicator lets you know how much time is left in the wash cycle, while the Dual Power Filtration goes to work to disintegrate any food in its path.
- Model: MDB4949SKZ
- Dimensions: 34.5” H x 23.88” W x 24.5” D
- Dishwasher Type: Built-In
Customer reviews say, “I love this dishwasher so much that I ended up buying a second one for my beach house. I wanted a practical, functional, nice looking, and quiet dishwasher. I've been using it for about 4 months. While I usually just do a normal wash, the power wash with high heat is great for those dishes that have a little extra food on them. The Chopper works great. This dishwasher was one of the less expensive options out there and I'm very happy with my purchase.”
Bosch® 300 Series 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
If your Bosch dishwasher is not cleaning, then the Bosch 300 Series 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher is a great option. Bosch offers the quietest dishwashers in the industry, with a quiet operation of 46 dBA. This dishwasher features an additional third rack and offers 30% more loading capacity than Bosch dishwashers that have only two racks. You can be confident in spot-free, shiny dishes with the built-in water softener, and have complete control over your wash cycles with any smartphone or tablet through the Home Connect App.
- Model: SHE53B75UC
- Dimensions: 34.06” H x 23.56” W x 22.56” D
- Dishwasher Type: Built-In
Customer reviews say, “This puppy is sooooo quiet! I replaced my noisy, inefficient, piece of yesteryear with this gem. It's super quiet and it gets my dishes and glasses perfectly clean. Love the 60 minute cycle. I use the water softener and rinse features because my water is very hard. Works great.”
Ways to Optimize Your Dishwashers Performance
To improve the cleaning performance of your dishwasher and ensure sparkling dishes, follow these tips:
- Pre-Scrape Dishes: Before loading the dishwasher, scrape off large food particles and debris from plates, utensils, and cookware. This prevents clogs and allows the dishwasher to focus on more effective cleaning.
- Load Dishes Properly: Arrange dishes strategically to avoid blocking the water spray. Place larger and heavily soiled items on the bottom rack, facing the center for better cleaning. Cups and glasses should angle downward to allow water to drain properly.
- Don't Overload: Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher as it can hinder water circulation and detergents' effectiveness. Give each dish enough space for proper exposure to the cleaning process.
- Use High-Quality Detergent: Invest in a good quality dishwasher detergent, preferably in a gel, powder, or pod form. Avoid using handwashing liquid or soap, as they can create excess suds and damage the dishwasher.
- Check Water Temperature: Ensure that your dishwasher's water temperature is set between 120°F to 140°F (49°C to 60°C). Hot water improves cleaning efficiency and aids in dissolving detergent effectively.
- Clean the Filter Regularly: Periodically clean the dishwasher's filter to prevent clogs and ensure proper water drainage. Consult your dishwasher's manual for guidance on how to access and clean the filter.
- Use Rinse Aid: Utilize a rinse aid to improve drying performance and prevent water spots on your dishes. Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes, ensuring a spotless and streak-free finish.
By following these steps and maintaining your dishwasher regularly, you can significantly enhance its cleaning efficiency, resulting in consistently clean and sanitized dishes after every cycle.
How to Save on a New Dishwasher
Appliance shopping can be overwhelming, but that’s especially true when you need an appliance quickly after your old one has broken. Consider following these steps to save your budget in your hunt for a new dishwasher. Talk to your retailer about what financing options they have that can help you save the most on your purchase, as well as the different clearance or promotions they may be offering. Another way to save is by going with an older model that has basic features rather than choosing one with all the bells and whistles.
Dishwasher Problems FAQ
How do I get my dishwasher to clean again?
To get your dishwasher to clean again, add three cups of vinegar to your empty wash bin, and run a full cycle. Vinegar helps remove any soap scum, food build-up, or other unwanted particles.
Why are my dishes still dirty after the dishwasher?
Some common causes of a dishwasher not cleaning is a clogged filter, outdated appliance, water supply problems, or improper loading.
What to check when the dishwasher isn’t cleaning?
Check these five things when your dishwasher isn’t cleaning:
- Check for a dirty or clogged filter.
- Be sure you are using the correct dish detergent.
- Make sure that you are loading your dishes correctly.
- Be sure that your dishwasher is set to the correct wash cycle.
- When running your dishwasher, be sure that the water temperature is set to the manufacturer's recommendation for optimal cleaning.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974, when Lester’s son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 5 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas location. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Dishwashers at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop dishwashers online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you find a replacement for a dishwasher that is not working, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
→ Learn more: How to Clean Your Dishwasher: Right and Wrong Tips