Dishwasher Repair Guide – How To Fix A Dishwasher

Here is a fast troubleshooting guide for repairing your Dishwasher. Use the guide to repair your dishwasher. The repair methods below are meant to be used for all dish washing machines. If you are still having trouble with your dishwasher after using the troubleshooting guide below, go to our homepage to ask an appliance repair question and ask your question in complete detail to help us assist you to fix your dish washing machine.

dishwasher repair guide

Dishwasher cycle times are too long

  • Test the timer motor
  • Test the heating element
  • Test the thermostat

Dishes are not cleaned adequately

  • Check for adequate water level
  • Check the spray arms and spray tower
  • Check the water temperature
  • Check the detergent cup
  • Clean the fine particle filter
  • Check the inlet filter screens
  • Check the water pressure
  • Test the water inlet valve
  • Check the drain valve
  • Test the selector switch
  • Test the timer motor
  • Test the heating element

Dishwasher does not work – no sound, water or lights

  • Check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
  • Check that the dishwasher is plugged in securely
  • Inspect the wiring connection to the dishwasher for burns or breaks.
  • Check the door latch
  • Test the door switch
  • Test the timer motor
  • Test the selector switch
  • Test the motor start relay
  • Test the motor

Dishwasher does not start but motor hums

  • Unjam the motor
  • Unjam the pump
  • Test the motor
  • Test the motor start relay
  • Check the drive belt

Dishwasher does not fill with water or it drains while filling

  • Check that the water supply is turned on.
  • Check the door latch
  • Test the door switch
  • Inspect the float assembly
  • Inspect the fill tube for kinks
  • Test the float switch
  • Check the inlet valve filter screens
  • Test the water inlet valve
  • Test the drain valve lever arm
  • Check the drain valve

Water does not drain from the dishwasher

  • Check sink drain and drain hose for restrictions
  • Unjam the motor
  • Unjam the pump
  • Check the drain valve
  • Check the drive belt
  • Test the timer motor

Dishwasher is leaking water

  • Inspect the seals for the main tub, float, heating element and blower diffuser
  • Check for overfilling
  • Inspect the water and drain hoses
  • Inspect the door gaskets
  • Check the water inlet valve
  • Check the pump

Water or soap leaks around the door

  • Make certain that your detergent is intended for dishwashers.
  • Inspect the door seal gasket
  • Check the door latch
  • Inspect the door hinges
  • Inspect the spray arms for damage

Dry cycle problems

  • Test the heating element
  • Test the drying fan
  • Test the thermostat

Dishwasher is noisy

  • Check the spray arm for damage and obstructions
  • Check the inlet filter screens
  • Test the water inlet valve
  • Check the motor and mounts
  • Check the fan motor and blade
  • Check the drain for obstructions

Door does not close or latch properly

  • Check for obstructions
  • Check the door latch
  • Inspect the door hinges
  • Inspect the door seal gasket

Dishwasher cycle does not complete

  • Test the timer motor
  • Test the thermostat
  • Test the heating element

Dishwasher-Parts-Diagram


HOW TO REPAIR A DISHWASHER

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