What Problems Can Cause a Dishwasher Not to Work?

Improper Installation

• If the dishwasher is new or newly installed and is not working, it may not be connected correctly. If the panel doesn't light up or the appliance does not turn on, the electrical hookup might not be properly connected. If the machine comes on but does not fill, or if water flows out from under the dishwasher instead of flowing into the dish chamber, the water lines might not be properly installed. If you paid someone to install the dishwasher, ask the installer to correct the situation. If you installed the dishwasher yourself, turn off power and water sources before attempting to correct these issues.

Water Pressure

• Low water pressure can cause your dishwasher to fail. The sprayer arms use water pressure to release strong bursts of water to wash away food and other debris. There are several things that can cause low water pressure. If your pipes are corroded or leaking, you might have low pressure all over your home. If you have a well, a faulty pump could cause low water pressure. Kinks or clogs in the water lines to the appliance may also cause the problem.

Debris Buildup

• If dirt, food and other debris build up in the sprayer arms of a dishwasher, the appliance may fail to clean properly. If the appliance runs through a complete cycle but leaves the dishes dirty or spotty, the unit may need cleaning. Most dishwashers have a spinning sprayer arm on the bottom of the appliance. A large single bolt typically holds the sprayer in place. Remove this bolt with a wrench, and lift up the sprayer. Use a toothpick or icepick to poke each hole in the sprayer arm. Rinse the arm under hot running water, and wash it carefully with dish soap. Rinse well before replacing. If the machine has an upper arm, repeat the process with that piece.

Improper Loading

• A dishwasher might fail to clean dishes if it is improperly loaded. Large pots, pans or dishes placed over the sprayer arms keep the flow of water from reaching upper-level items, so these items remain unwashed. Consult with the appliance's owner's manual for proper loading directions.