Dishwasher Troubleshooting: Simple Fixes for Everyday Problems

If your dishwasher is acting up, you don’t have to call a tech straight away. Most hiccups have easy fixes you can try in under ten minutes. Below we cover the most common complaints – from dishes that stay sticky to a machine that won’t finish a cycle – and give you clear steps to get it back in shape.

Why My Dishes Aren’t Coming Out Clean?

Dirty dishes usually point to one of three culprits: spray arm blockage, low water temperature, or an overloaded rack.

• Check the spray arms. Pull them out (most models have a snap‑off collar) and rinse under warm water. Use a toothpick to clear any food particles stuck in the jet holes.
• Water temperature matters. Run hot water at the sink until it’s steaming, then start the dishwasher. The water entering the machine should be at least 120°F (49°C). If it’s cooler, adjust your boiler or wait longer for the water to heat.
• Don’t over‑pack. Large plates or bowls can block the spray path. Arrange items so water can reach every surface.

After you’ve checked these, run a short cycle with a dishwasher‑specific cleaner to clear any hard‑water buildup.

Dishwasher Won’t Drain or Stays Full?

Standing water is often a sign of a clogged filter, a kinked hose, or a faulty pump.

• Clean the filter. Most filters sit at the bottom of the tub. Twist it out, scrape off debris, and rinse.
• Inspect the drain hose. Look for bends or blockages where the hose connects to the sink trap. Detach it briefly and blow through it to clear any sludge.
• Listen for the pump. When the drain cycle starts, you should hear a low hum. If the sound is silent, the pump may need a reset – turn off the power for a minute, then restart the machine.

If water still won’t go away after these steps, the pump motor might be burnt out, and you’ll need a professional.

Why Is My Dishwasher Making Loud Noise?

Rattling or grinding can be caused by loose utensils, broken spray arm bearings, or a worn‑out motor bearing.

• Remove stray items. Small forks or plastic pieces can bounce around. Empty the bottom rack and give the tub a quick visual check.
• Secure the spray arm. If it’s loose, tighten the mounting nut.
• Check the motor. A humming sound that turns into a grinding noise usually means the motor bearing is worn. That’s a job for an engineer.

Running the dishwasher empty on a hot rinse cycle for a few minutes can also flush out any loose debris that’s causing noise.

Other Quick Checks

​Power supply. Make sure the plug is firmly in the socket and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.

​Door latch. If the door doesn’t click shut, the cycle won’t start. Clean the latch contacts with a dry cloth.

​Detergent usage. Using too much powder or the wrong type can create excess suds, leading to leaks or poor cleaning. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended dose.

Most dishwasher glitches can be sorted with a bit of DIY detective work. If you’ve run through these steps and the machine still misbehaves, it’s time to call a local repair expert. At Nuneaton Appliance Repair Experts we’ll diagnose the issue fast and get your dishwasher humming again without breaking the bank.