Common Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Repair

Dishwashers have become a staple in most households, whether for convenience or as a necessity. However, many homeowners take them for granted and only pay attention to them when they stop working. Recognizing early signs of potential problems can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns.

In this blog, let’s explore some of the most common signs of a broken dishwasher and why addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Water Leakage

Water leakage is one of the most common and obvious signs that your dishwasher needs attention. If you find puddles around the base of the dishwasher or dampness underneath, it’s a sign of a problem. The same goes for stains on cabinetry and flooring around the dishwasher.

Causes

• Damaged Door Gasket: The door gasket is a rubber seal that prevents water from leaking from the dishwasher. Over time, it can become worn or cracked, which can lead to leaks.
• Loose Connections: Loose or improperly connected hoses and fittings can result in water escaping during the wash cycle.
• Cracked Hoses: Hoses that carry water to and from the dishwasher can develop cracks or splits, causing leaks.

Troubleshooting Steps

Periodically, check the door gasket for any signs of wear or damage. If you see cracks or it appears to be brittle, it may need to be replaced. We also recommend checking all hoses and connections during these periodic check-ups to ensure they are all securely attached and not leaking.

Poor Cleaning Results

A dishwasher not cleaning dishes properly can be frustrating. This can be dishes that are still dirty, residue or a film on dishes or spots on glassware.

Causes

• Clogged Spray Arms: If the spray arms are clogged with food debris or mineral deposits, water can’t circulate properly, leading to poor cleaning.
• Malfunctioning Detergent Dispenser: If the detergent dispenser doesn’t open correctly, none or only part of the cleaning detergent gets into the interior of your dishwasher, preventing your dishes from getting cleaned.
• Low Water Temperature: Water that isn’t hot enough won’t effectively clean dishes, especially greasy ones.

Troubleshooting Steps

Remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly, ensuring that all holes are free of obstructions. You can use a toothpick or small brush to unclog holes in the spray arms. Also, ensure that dishes are loaded correctly and do not block the spray arms or detergent dispenser. Remove and clean the dishwasher filter to ensure it’s not blocked by food particles or other debris. Finally, ensure you use a high-quality detergent suitable for your water hardness.

Unusual Noises

Generally, dishwashers should operate relatively quietly except when they spray or pump water. So, if you hear grinding, thumping, humming, or banging noises during operation, it’s a sign that something is wrong.

Causes

• Obstructions in the Spray Arms: Objects can get caught in the spray arms, causing noise and reducing efficiency.
• Worn-Out Bearings: Bearings that are worn out can cause a grinding noise.
• Motor Issues: Problems with the motor can result in unusual sounds during the wash cycle.

Troubleshooting Steps

Check for any items that might be stuck in the spray arms, remove them, and ensure that there are no loose items in the dishwasher that could be causing the noise. Also, ensure the spray arms are securely attached and debris-free. 

Dishes Not Drying Properly

Another common issue with dishwashers is that your dishes are still wet after a complete cycle or if you notice pooling water at the bottom of your dishwasher.

Causes

• Faulty Heating Element: The heating element is responsible for drying dishes, so it may have stopped working if your dishes don’t dry properly.
• Malfunctioning Thermostat: A faulty thermostat can prevent the dishwasher from reaching the correct drying temperature, leaving your dishes wet.
• Improper Loading: Improperly loaded Dishes can block airflow, preventing proper drying.

Troubleshooting Steps

First, check your heating element. If it shows any signs of damage or malfunction, it may have to be replaced to restore proper heating and drying. Also, if the dishes are packed too tight or are not loaded correctly, they might obstruct the airflow, preventing the air from circulating freely. Rearrange dishes to ensure they are not blocking vents or preventing proper airflow.

Dishwasher Fails to Start

If your dishwasher refuses to start at all or only shows blinking lights, it’s more than just an inconvenience; it could be a sign of more significant issues.

Causes

• Door Latch Issues: If the door latch isn’t engaging properly, it can stop the start signal.
• Faulty Control Panel: A malfunctioning control panel can prevent the dishwasher from starting.
• Electrical Problems: Power supply or wiring issues can also cause start-up failures.

Troubleshooting Steps

Check that the dishwasher is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. This may seem like an obvious solution, but it can happen accidentally. Ensure the door closes securely and the latch engages properly. If something is obstructing the latch, try to remove it; if the latch is broken, it has to be replaced. If the control panel is the issue, you can try to reset it by turning off the power on your dishwasher for a few minutes and then turning it back on.

Foul Odours

Over time, a dishwasher may develop persistent bad smells, such as mouldy or musty odours.

Causes

• Food Debris Buildup: Food particles can accumulate and create foul odours.
• Clogged Filter: A clogged filter can cause water to become stagnant and smelly. It can also become a hotbed for mould and mildew to grow and spread throughout the dishwasher.
• Stagnant Water: Water that doesn’t drain properly can lead to unpleasant odours.

Troubleshooting Steps

Remove and clean the filter to ensure it’s free of debris, mould or mildew. Also, check the drain and water can flow out properly, and remove any debris that may have accumulated. You can run a vinegar rinse cycle by placing a cup of vinegar into the top rack of your dishwasher to clean and deodorize the appliance. There are also commercial dishwasher cleaners that can remove buildup and eliminate odours.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

Keeping an eye out for common dishwasher problems can help avoid smaller inconveniences to escalate into all-out problems that could lead to costly repairs. Early detection and prompt action can ensure your dishwasher performs properly and extend its lifespan.

If you encounter a more complex issue or if any DIY fixes don’t fully resolve the problem, the professional technicians of iCare Appliance Repair are ready to spring into action for a professional dishwasher repair. Whether you’re not sure how to clean dishwasher spray arms or need noisy dishwasher solutions, our experts are here to help.

With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust iCare Appliance Repair to deliver reliable and efficient solutions for all your appliance repair needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance, and keep your appliances running smoothly for years to come.

Our technicians at iCare Appliance Repair are factory-trained and licensed to service almost every major model and brand, such as LG. We offer same-day and after-hours repair services, including evenings and late hours. Contact us today at (647) 370-2828 or complete our convenient online form to learn more about our dishwasher repair services.