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HomeRepair HelpMagic Chef Dishwasher RepairMagic Chef Dishwasher not cleaning Repair
Magic Chef Dishwasher not cleaning
If your Magic Chef dishwasher is not cleaning, start with the basics that most often cause poor wash performance. A clogged or failing water inlet valve is the top suspect because the dishwasher needs the right water level to wash properly, and if it does not get enough water, you can end up with dishes still dirty after the dishwasher cycle. Next, check for improper loading, since packed-in dishes can block spray patterns and leave your Magic Chef dishwasher not cleaning dishes on either rack. Water temperature matters too, and incoming water should be about 120°F for the dishwasher to wash properly. After that, inspect the center wash arm support, center wash arm assembly, and lower wash arm assembly. If the support is damaged, not lined up with the water supply nozzle, or the spray arm holes are clogged with debris, water will not circulate where it needs to go and the dishwasher may leave dishes dirty. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact Magic Chef water inlet valve, center wash arm support, wash arm, or other replacement part that fits your specific dishwasher.
01 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 Magic Chef dishwasher not cleaning dishes even though it runs?
How do I fix a Magic Chef dishwasher leaving dishes dirty after the cycle?
Can a bad water inlet valve cause a Magic Chef dishwasher to not wash properly?
Why are the dishes on the top rack dirty in my Magic Chef dishwasher?
How do I find the right Magic Chef dishwasher part for a cleaning problem?