Common Problems with Dishwashers and How to Solve Them

Dishwasher repairs attempted by anyone without professional experience, training, and an understanding of gas and electrical systems can be very dangerous.

Dishwasher repairs attempted by anyone without professional experience, training, and an understanding of gas and electrical systems can be very dangerous. But, there are things a homeowner can do that don’t need an appliance expert. Below, we discuss some of the most common dishwasher problems and solutions a homeowner can try before calling a professional.

Your dishwasher doesn’t drain the water

  • Cause: Dishwasher drain hose kinked or clogged

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: Look for bends and straighten them. If the dishwasher hose won’t stay straight, buy a helical spring a bit larger than the outer diameter of the dishwasher hose and place it around the hose to keep it straight. If the hose is straight, disconnect and blow through it to see if it is clear.

  • Cause: Dishwasher timer sticks in “Wash” phase

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: If the dishwasher timer doesn’t advance from the “Wash” phase to the “Drain” phase, it is defective and should be replaced.

A dishwasher detergent cup lid fails to spring open

  • Cause: Dish or utensil is blocking the dishwasher lid

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: Ensure dishes and utensils are positioned so they can’t possibly jam against the dishwasher detergent cup lid.

Dishwashing soap is stuck in the soap cup

  • Cause: Detergent put into a wet cup or left in the cup too long

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: The cup should be dry when the dishwasher detergent is put into it because it will harden in a wet cup and may cause the lid to jam. If the dishwasher detergent remains in the cup for too long, it may be cake.

  • Cause: Hard-water deposits (calcium) are hampering lid operation

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: Clean the dishwasher cup and lid with vinegar.

The dishwasher doesn’t dry the dishes

  • Cause: Improper placement

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: Air space should be left around the dishes to permit free passage of heat.

  • Cause: Calcium deposits have built up on the dishwasher heating element

  • Easy dishwasher repair solution: Examine the element and clean off deposits with vinegar.

If these easy solutions don’t work, the problem is probably beyond the skillset of the average homeowner. The best solution is to call a dishwasher repair specialist and let them fix the problem and return your dishwasher to its perfect working order. More efficient dishwasher usage can extend the life of your dishwasher, helping you save on your utility bills and possible future repairs.

Mr Fixer has a team of skilled and highly trained technicians who arrive at your location with fully stocked trucks to provide dishwasher repair, oven and cooktop repair, and garbage disposal repair. We are fully licensed and insured. Call today for speedy, same-day service. 

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