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Dishwasher Troubleshooting Guide
Having problems with your dishwasher? This guide gives you the top warning signs that your machine is on its way out. Or, head to the FAQs where we'll guide you through unblocking your machine and giving advice on some of the most common problems.
Signs you need a new dishwasher
Here are 5 signs to look out for that could mean your dishwasher’s on the way out. Dishwashers usually stay at their best for around 10 years, so if yours is older, it’s probably best to replace it if you spot any of these problems.
Your dishes come out cold or speckled
Your plates and cutlery should come out your dishwasher hot and sparkling, not dull as dishwater. If they’re looking speckled and cold, then they’re not getting a proper clean. It could just be something small like needing to replace the spray arm or a problem with the detergent dispenser, but this is something to weigh up against the age of your model.
The door doesn't close or lock
If the door’s not shutting properly – and a rogue spoon getting in the way isn’t to blame – then it could mean the door has been bent out of place or warped by water damage. Repairing this can be very tricky (and expensive too).
It's starting to crack
A crack in your dishwasher is a big no-no. If you spot one anywhere on your machine, it’s best to switch it off and unplug it straight away. That’s because any sort of crack could mean the room it’s in might get an unwanted bath and cause all sorts of water damage.
It's making an unusual noise
If your dishwasher’s changed its tune from the normal sounds to something a bit stranger, it could be on its last legs. That’s because strange noises often mean there’s a problem with the motor, and a dodgy motor can be very expensive to fix.
It's starting to rust
Rust inside the dishwasher could spell the end for your machine. It might not be all bad news, because it could just be coming off your pots and pans. But if they’re all nice and shiny, then there’s a chance it’s a sign of a water leak – a bit worse than a rusty pan. One way to check what’s causing the problem is to run an empty cycle with some citric acid. If you’re still getting rust inside, then it’s time to bag yourself a brand new model.
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FAQs
- How do I unblock my dishwasher?
Your dishwasher’s drainage pipe might be blocked, which would stop your appliance from filling with water. Before you do anything, turn your dishwasher off and look for the drain – double check your owner’s manual if you can’t find it. Unscrew the drain catch, take the filter out and remove anything that’s causing a blockage. Once you’ve cleared it out, put the filter back, screw the catch in and try using your dishwasher again.
- Why isn’t my dishwasher draining?
Your dishwasher’s filter will most likely be clogged up with bits of leftover food. You’ll need to take out the filter and give it a good clean. Check out our handy video for more tips on how to unblock your dishwasher.
- Why won’t my dishwasher fill with water?
Check that your dishwasher door is shut properly. Most dishwashers won’t fill with water if your door is not shut properly. Another reason might be due to the drain being clogged with old bits of food, so check with your manual on how to clean the drain filter.
- Why is there water left at the bottom of my dishwasher?
This is usually because the filter is blocked or clogged up. You’ll need to take it out from the bottom of your machine and give it a good clean. This also might be down to your dishwasher being dirty. Dishwashers need to be cleaned and looked after to work at their best.
- Why does my dishwasher smell?
This will probably be down to bits of leftover food from your dishes and pans. You just need to give the inside of your dishwasher a good clean. Remember to wash out the filter and remove any blockages too.
- Why is my sink making a noise when the dishwasher is on?
The dishwasher drain hose will be connected to the U bend pipe under the sink, so you’ll hear a noise when it drains.
- Why are my dishes still dirty?
Dishwashers are mighty appliances, but sometimes they need a good clean and a little care themselves to keep working at their best.
- Why do my tablets not dissolve properly?
You might not be putting the dishwasher on the correct cycle or temperature setting.
- Why do my glasses have white marks on them?
This can happen in hard water areas; make sure you’ve set the machine up as per the instruction manual and always keep the salt topped up.
- Why are my dishes not drying properly?
This can depend on the model. Basic dishwashers will never completely dry your dishes, but more high-end models have the technology to make sure your dishes are dry when you take them out, even with plastics.
- Why does my dishwasher stop mid-cycle?
You’ll have to contact your manufacturer to solve this issue.
