Appliance & Refrigeration Hospital

Helpful Service Hints About Your Dishwasher

Problem	Things to Check	Notes
Dishes do not get clean	Have you checked that the proper wash cycle is selected?	Short or light wash cycles may save water and energy but may not clean heavily soiled dishes properly.
	Have you checked the incoming water temperature?	The temperature to the dishwasher must be at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit. To check the temperature turn on your faucet and let it run until all cold water is out of the pipes.
	Have you checked the amount of detergent and water hardness?	Check your owners manual and your local water company for proper amounts. 12 grains and higher is extremely hard and detergent alone may not be enough. Water softener is recomended.
Dishes are not dry	Are you using the heat dry option? (on some models)	This will provide faster drying time but will use more energy
	Are you using rinse aid?	Rinse aid such as Jet-Dry is crucial on newer models and will improve dry time and reduce water spots
	Are you washing plastics?	Plastic items tend to collect water due to their porous surface and may need to be towel dried.
Dishwasher will not drain	Are you running the drain through a disposer?	Run the disposer to clear the drain system
	Have you checked to make sure the drain hose is not kinked?
	Did you make sure the dishwasher completed the cycle?
	Have you made sure the door was closed and latched?	The drain pump will not operate if the door is not securely latched.
Dishwasher will not start	Have you checked the circuit breaker?
	Did you check that the door is securely latched?
	Did you check that the dishwasher is not on delay start?
Dishwasher is leaking	Are you using the correct amount of detergent?	Refer to your use and care manual for proper amounts. Newer dishwasher require very little detergent, too much causes suds to form and leaks to occur
	Have you checked that the dishwasher is level?
	Did you spill rinse aid?	Spilled rinse aid can cause foaming and leaking.