Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly? Here’s How to Fix It

Dishwasher

When you load up your dishwasher and expect spotless, sparkling dishes, few things are as disappointing as opening it up to find residue, grime, or even food bits still clinging to your plates. Before you call in a repair technician or decide to replace the machine altogether, it’s worth troubleshooting a few common issues. With some know-how and a little maintenance, you can often restore your dishwasher to its former glory.

Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly

Let’s dig into the most common reasons your dishwasher isn’t cleaning as well as it should—and what to do about it! 

1. Dirty Interior

Why it Matters:

Over time, the inside of your dishwasher can build up with soap scum, food particles, and hard water deposits. This residue not only clogs the inner mechanisms but can also lead to unpleasant odours and reduce the machine’s overall cleaning power.

Fix It:

Every month or so, give your dishwasher a thorough cleaning. You can start by running an empty cycle with a dishwasher-safe bowl of vinegar on the top rack. This will break down any grime and mineral deposits inside. For a deeper clean, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the bottom and run a short cycle. If you spot stubborn stains or residue, gently scrub them with a soft brush or cloth. 

2. Dirty Filter 

Why it Matters:  

The filter catches leftover food bits and prevents them from circulating back onto your dishes. But if it gets clogged, water flow is restricted, and your dishwasher can’t properly wash or drain. 

Fix It: 

Most dishwashers have removable filters at the bottom of the machine. Carefully take it out (check your manual if you’re unsure), rinse it under hot water, and scrub away any gunk with a toothbrush. For an extra-thorough clean, soak it in a bit of vinegar to dissolve stubborn deposits. Be sure to replace it securely, as a loose filter can damage your dishwasher. 

3. Clogged Spray Arm 

Why it Matters:  

The spray arms are what make your dishwasher, well, wash. These spinning arms have small holes that spray water at high pressure to knock off food particles and rinse soap away. If those holes get clogged, water won’t reach your dishes properly. 

Fix It:  

First, remove the spray arms (usually, they twist or pop off). Check each hole for clogs—anything from food debris to mineral deposits can get in the way. Use a toothpick, small brush, or even a compressed air canister to clear out the blockages. After cleaning, rinse the arms thoroughly, then replace them, making sure they spin freely. 

4. Broken Soap Dispenser

Why it Matters:

If your soap dispenser doesn’t open properly, detergent won’t reach the dishes at the right time. This can lead to partially cleaned dishes or detergent clumps left behind. 

Fix It:

Run a quick test by starting a cycle and waiting until the point when the detergent should be released. If it doesn’t open, check for obstructions (sometimes a large plate or utensil may be blocking it) or damage. You might be able to manually repair or replace a faulty latch or spring, but if you’re unsure, consult a technician. 

5. Low Water Temperature 

Why it Matters: 

For optimal cleaning, most dishwashers require water that’s at least 120°F (49°C). If the water isn’t hot enough, it won’t dissolve the detergent fully, nor will it be effective at sanitising and breaking down grease. 

Fix It: 

Run hot water at your sink before starting your dishwasher to ensure that hot water reaches it right away. You may also want to check your water heater settings and make sure it’s set to at least 120°F. If the water temperature still seems low, the issue could be with your dishwasher’s heating element. 

6. Water Volume or Pressure Issues 

Why it Matters:  

Dishwashers rely on sufficient water pressure to blast food particles away. If your water pressure is too low, it won’t clean effectively, and if there’s not enough water, the soap and rinse cycles can’t do their jobs well. 

Fix It: 

First, make sure the dishwasher has enough water by opening the door mid-cycle; you should see water up to the heating coil. If it’s low, there might be an issue with your home’s water pressure, or the water supply line could be partially closed or kinked. For low water pressure, consult a plumber, but for issues with the supply line, you might be able to adjust it yourself. 

7. Failing Inlet Valve 

Why it Matters: 

The inlet valve controls the flow of water into your dishwasher. If it’s faulty, water might not be able to enter the dishwasher properly, leading to either too little or too much water in the machine. 

Fix It:

Diagnosing an inlet valve issue can be tricky without proper tools, but a sign of failure is if your dishwasher fills too slowly or not at all. For those comfortable with DIY repairs, you can check the inlet valve with a multimeter to see if it’s functioning correctly. However, this is often best left to a professional, as a replacement requires accessing and disconnecting internal water lines. 

Dishwasher Repair Process

Key Takeaways 

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and spray arms and ensuring proper water temperature and pressure, can often resolve dishwasher performance issues without needing professional help. However, if you’re still struggling after going through these steps, it might be time to call in a technician from Aotea Electric Ashburton. Their skilled professionals are equipped to diagnose and repair any issues, ensuring your dishwasher operates at its best. 

Additionally, if your dishwasher is older and prone to breakdowns, considering a replacement might be wise. Aotea Electric Ashburton can assist you in selecting a new, energy-efficient model that meets your needs and budget. 

Taking just a few minutes to maintain your dishwasher can save you time, frustration, and money down the line—and leave you with cleaner, spot-free dishes after every cycle! For expert appliance repair and installation services, trust Aotea Electric Ashburton to keep your home running smoothly. 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

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