Dishwasher won't wash
Common reasons your dishwasher won't wash
The most common reasons your dishwasher won't wash are a faulty pump and motor assembly, defective electronic control board or a clogged spray arm.
50% of the time it's the
Pump and Motor Assembly
9% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
8% of the time it's the
Spray Arm
33% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dishwasher repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.
Pump and Motor Assembly Replacement
When your dishwasher fails to wash, a defective pump and motor assembly are often to blame. This assembly propels water up through the spray arms to cleanse dishes during the cycle. If a damaged pump impeller or malfunctioning motor disrupts its operation, dishes won't receive a thorough cleaning. Unusual sounds like buzzing or grinding from the pump and motor assembly may indicate a problem. Arrange for a Sears Home Services technician to assess and repair your dishwasher if you suspect a faulty pump.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
When your dishwasher fails to clean dishes, a malfunctioning pump and motor assembly are often at fault. This assembly is responsible for directing water up through the spray arms to wash the dishes during the cycle. If a damaged pump impeller or a malfunctioning motor disrupts its operation, the dishes won't receive a thorough cleaning. Unusual sounds like buzzing or grinding from the pump and motor assembly may indicate a problem. Arrange for a Sears Home Services technician to visit your home and repair the dishwasher if a faulty pump is suspected.
Spray Arm Replacement
When your dishwasher fails to clean dishes effectively, a blocked spray arm might be the culprit. Mineral deposits or debris can accumulate around the spray arm holes, obstructing the flow of water and hindering proper cleaning. Additionally, if the spray holes become clogged, the spray arm won't spin correctly. To address this issue, it's advisable to request a visit from a Sears Home Services Repair Expert to inspect your dishwasher. The technician will assess the situation and clear any blockages in the spray arms to restore efficient cleaning performance.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher won't wash issue
How to repair the won't wash problem
To address most issues where the dishwasher fails to wash dishes, the typical solution often entails replacing either the pump and motor assembly, the electronic control board, or the spray arm. However, since there can be various underlying reasons for this problem, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving it effectively. A precise diagnosis is vital for determining the extent of the repair needed and its associated costs.
Sears Home Services advice for a dishwasher that won't wash
If your dishwasher isn't washing dishes, there could be multiple causes. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact issue. Our technicians are skilled at diagnosing various dishwasher problems.
What you'll see with a dishwasher won't wash diagnosis
Identifying issues with modern appliances can be tough without the right expertise. Trying to fix your dishwasher without proper diagnostic methods might lead to replacing parts randomly. Appliances, particularly those made in the last decade, have complex electronic components that are hard to check. DIY repairs on newer appliance models are getting more challenging.
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Thorough
James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Repair Dishwasher Resources
Discover if it's worth fixing a dishwasher with Sears Home Services. Get expert advice and make the right choice.
Learn what causes poor dishwasher cleaning results and find out how to get dishes cleaned spotlessly in the dishwasher.
Learn how a rinse aid dispenser works in a dishwasher and how to troubleshoot problems.
Learn how an air gap works in the drain system of a dishwasher.
Glossary Terms
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
A freezer compressor is a vital component of a freezer's refrigeration system, functioning as a pump to circulate refrigerant through the system, which cools the interior by absorbing and expelling heat.
A freezer door gasket is a flexible seal that outlines the edge of the freezer door, ensuring an airtight closure to maintain cold temperatures inside and prevent warm air from entering.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
Common dishwasher symptoms to look out for
- Dishwasher won't turn off
- Dishwasher won't start cycle
- Dishwasher won't drain
- Dishwasher not working
- Dishwasher not washing
- Dishwasher not turning on
- Dishwasher not starting
- Dishwasher not spinning
- Dishwasher not heating
- Dishwasher not filling
- Dishwasher not drying
- Dishwasher not draining properly
- Dishwasher not draining
- Dishwasher not cleaning bottom rack
- Dishwasher noisy
- Dishwasher no water
- Dishwasher no power
- Dishwasher no heat
- Dishwasher lights flashing and will not start
- Dishwasher light not working
- Dishwasher leaks water
- Dishwasher leaking water
- Dishwasher leaking from bottom
- Dishwasher leaking
- Dishwasher door not closing
- Dishwasher display not working
- Dishwasher dispenser not working
- Dishwasher detergent not dispensing
- Dishwasher burning smell