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HomeRepair HelpDishwasher RepairDishwasher not cleaning Repair
Dishwasher not cleaning
If your dishwasher is not cleaning, start with the basics that most often cause poor wash performance. A restricted or failed water inlet valve is the top suspect because the dishwasher needs the right water level to wash properly. If it is clogged or defective, replace it rather than trying to clean it. Next, check for improper loading, since crowded racks can block spray and leave dishes still dirty after the dishwasher cycle. Water temperature matters too. If incoming hot water is below 120°F, your dishwasher may not be washing properly, especially on shorter cycles. After that, inspect the center wash arm support, center wash arm assembly, and lower wash arm assembly. A damaged support, poor fit at the water supply nozzle, or clogged spray arm holes can keep water from reaching both racks and cause a dishwasher not cleaning dishes complaint. If your dishwasher is leaving dishes dirty, RepairClinic.com makes it easier to track down the problem and the exact replacement part. Enter your model number to find the right water inlet valve, wash arm support, or spray arm assembly for your specific dishwasher.
01 - Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. If the valve is clogged or defective, the dishwasher won’t get enough water to clean dishes properly. If the water inlet valve is clogged, replace it. Do not attempt to clean the water inlet valve—cleaning the valve could make it more likely to fail.
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02 - Improper loading
Improper loading will keep the water from cleaning the dishes. Make sure you are leaving enough space between the dishes.
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03 - Improper water supply temperature
The water may not be hot enough. The recommended water supply temperature for a dishwasher to clean properly is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). If your hot water temperature is lower for safety reasons, try using a longer cycle that heats the water.
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04 - Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm
A dishwasher's lower wash arm will spray water upwards as it rotates to clean the dishware during the wash and rinse cycles. If the wash arm is clogged with debris or damaged, the water won't be able to jet upwards and the dishware won't be cleaned effectively.
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05 - Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Support
The lower wash arm is attached to a support fastened to the sump assembly. Water flows through the support to the arm which circulates the water to the dishes in the lower dishrack. If the support is damaged or obstructed water may not flow properly. Inspect the support for any damage or obstruction and replace if necessary.
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06 - Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly
The lower wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the lower rack. If water can’t flow properly through the lower wash arm, the dishes in the lower rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles can get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the lower wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it.
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07 - Dishwasher Upper Wash Arm Assembly
The upper wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the upper rack. If water can’t flow properly through the upper wash arm, the dishes in the upper rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the upper wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dishwasher not cleaning dishes even though it runs?
What should I check first if dishes are still dirty after the dishwasher cycle?
Can a clogged spray arm cause a dishwasher to leave dishes dirty?
How hot should the water be if my dishwasher is not washing properly?
How do I find the right dishwasher part for my model?