My Dishwasher is Not Pulling in Hot Water

Hot Water Heater

• The first thing to investigate if the dishwasher does not seem to have hot water is whether the household hot water is turned to an acceptable temperature. The recommended water temperature for dishwasher use is between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Turn the hot water heater to a higher setting if necessary.

Water Supply

• Check the water valve or faucet connected to the dishwasher to ensure that there is enough water entering the machine, as low water supply may be interpreted as water that is not hot enough. The water valve is located behind the dishwasher or under the kitchen sink in most instances and should be turned counterclockwise to turn the water supply on completely. Straighten out the water hose as well so that water can flow easily into the dishwasher and clean out the water hose inlet screen if necessary to remove debris that may be blocking water flow.

Dishwasher Use

• Sometimes the use of other hot-water based appliances, like a washing machine or shower, when the dishwasher also is in use can reduce the dishwasher water temperature. Try to use the dishwasher when other water-based appliances are not in use. In addition, run the hot water at the kitchen sink for 30 seconds to a minute before starting the dishwasher cycle so the water that enters the dishwasher already is heated.

Cycle Selection

• When selecting dishwasher wash cycles, be aware that some cycles use cooler or cold water, such as “Eco,” “Energy Saver” or “Delicate” wash cycles. The use of cool water in these cycles does not indicate that the dishwasher is not using hot water. Select other wash cycles with hot water if desired, such as “Sanitize,” “High Temp Wash,” “Heavy” or “Pots and Pans” to increase the water temperature used in the dishwasher.

Household Problems

• Try to run hot water to other appliances or in a sink if the hot water still does not seem to be running for the dishwasher. If there is no hot water to other appliances or sinks, the hot water heater may be malfunctioning. For gas hot water heaters, the pilot light may have gone out and may need to be reset, while electric water heaters may require replacement of the heating elements. In some cases the water heater itself may need to be replaced.