6 Common Dishwasher Problems and How to Fix Them Leave a comment

A dishwasher is a lifesaver until it stops working. Dishes come out dirty. Water starts leaking. And the worst part is, it just refuses to start when you need it most. Sounds familiar? Do not worry! Most dishwasher problems have simple fixes. And if you are thinking about getting a new one, check out the best deals at Subhan Electronics. Let’s look at the most common dishwasher issues and how to fix them.

Dishes Are Still Dirty After a Wash

Ever opened your dishwasher expecting shiny, spotless dishes, only to find plates with leftover food stuck to them? Possible reasons:

Clogged spray arms: Food bits get stuck, blocking water flow.

Overloading: If you cram in too many dishes, water can’t reach everything.

Hard water buildup: Leaves streaks and a cloudy layer on glasses.

How to fix it:

•  Take out the spray arms and clean them with a brush or toothpick.
•  Arrange dishes properly, don’t stack them too close.
•  Use a rinse aid to prevent hard water stains.

Still not working? Maybe your dishwasher is getting old. Check out the latest models here for a fresh start.

Dishwasher Won’t Drain

Opened the dishwasher and found a pool of water at the bottom? Not a great sight.

Possible reasons:

Clogged drain filter : Food particles block the drain.

Blocked drain hose : Kinks or buildup can stop water from flowing out.

Garbage disposal issue : If your dishwasher connects to the sink, a clog there could stop drainage.

How to fix it:

• Remove and clean the drain filter, it’s usually at the bottom of the machine.
• Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
• Run your garbage disposal to clear any clogs in the connected drain.

If water keeps pooling up, your dishwasher might be on its last legs. Time to upgrade? See the best options here.

Dishwasher Is Leaking

A leaking dishwasher is like a slow-moving disaster; you don’t notice it until your kitchen floor starts turning into a mini swimming pool.

Possible reasons:

Worn-out door seal: A loose or cracked seal lets water escape.

Overloading: Water spills out when dishes block the spray arms.

Using too much detergent: Excess suds can push water out.

How to fix it:

• Inspect the door seal if it looks worn, replace it.
• Load dishes properly: no blocking the spray arms.
• Use the recommended amount of detergent (more soap ≠ cleaner dishes).

Still leaking? It might be time for an upgrade. See the best dishwashers here.

Dishwasher Won’t Start

You press the start button. Nothing happens. The lights don’t turn on. The motor stays silent. The dishes? Still dirty.

Possible reasons:

Loose power connection : The plug might be loose or the circuit breaker may have tripped.

Faulty door latch : If the door doesn’t close properly, the dishwasher won’t start.

Control panel issues : Sometimes the start button or control board malfunctions.

How to fix it:

• Check the power cord and breaker box, make sure everything is connected.
• Ensure the door is fully closed, if it won’t latch, that could be the issue.
• If buttons are unresponsive, a control panel repair or replacement may be needed.

If it’s happening too often, maybe it’s time for a reliable new dishwasher. Find one here.

Dishwasher Smells Bad

A dishwasher should clean dishes not smell like a garbage bin.

Possible reasons:

Trapped food in the filter: Bacteria grow in leftover bits of food.

Moisture buildup: A closed dishwasher stays damp, leading to mold and mildew.

Hard water residue: Leaves a bad odor over time.

How to fix it:

• Remove and wash the filter regularly.
• Keep the door slightly open after a wash to let moisture escape.
• Run an empty cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner.

If the smell never goes away, maybe your dishwasher has seen better days. Get a fresh one here.

Dishwasher Is Too Noisy

Dishwashers are supposed to hum quietly in the background, not sound like a construction site.

Possible reasons:

Loose spray arms : Hitting dishes as they spin.

Broken motor or pump : Internal parts might be failing.

Something stuck in the filter : Hard objects can cause loud rattling.

How to fix it:

• Make sure dishes are not blocking spray arms.
• Check the filter for any trapped objects.
• If the motor sounds like it’s struggling, it may be time for a new dishwasher.

When should you replace your dishwasher? If you are fixing it every other week, it might be cheaper to replace it. Signs you need a new one:

• Constant breakdowns and high repair costs.
• Dishes never come out fully clean.
•  It is over 10 years old and becoming inefficient.
•  Leaks, drainage issues, or loud noises don’t go away.

If it’s time for a new dishwasher, don’t wait for it to completely break down. Check out the best models at unbeatable prices at Subhan Electronics today!

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my dishwasher?

Every two weeks—clean the filter, spray arms, and run a vinegar cycle.

2. Can I use regular dish soap in my dishwasher?

No! It creates too many suds and can cause leaks. Use only dishwasher detergent.

3. Why does my dishwasher leave a white residue on dishes?

It is hard water buildup. Use a rinse aid to prevent streaks.

4. How long should a dishwasher last?

A good dishwasher lasts 8 to 12 years with proper care.

5. Where can I buy a high-quality dishwasher?

For trusted brands at great prices, Visit Subhan Electronics.