An In-Depth FAQ for Dishwasher Owners in Duarte

• Why are my dishes still wet after the dishwasher cycle?
  This is one of the most common and frustrating dishwasher problems. The primary reason for wet dishes, especially plastics, is often related to the drying method and the lack of rinse aid. Most modern, energy-efficient dishwashers use a condensation drying method. This involves a very hot final rinse that heats up the dishes. The stainless steel tub of the dishwasher then cools faster than the dishes, causing moisture to be drawn off the dishware and condense on the cooler tub walls. For this process to work effectively, rinse aid is absolutely essential. It is a surfactant that helps break the surface tension of water, allowing it to sheet off surfaces rather than forming stubborn droplets. If your rinse aid dispenser is empty, it is the number one cause of poor drying performance.
  
  If you are using rinse aid and your dishes are still wet, other factors could be at play. The issue could be a malfunctioning heating element or high-limit thermostat, which prevents the final rinse water from reaching the optimal temperature needed for effective evaporation. On premium models like a Samsung with an AutoRelease™ door or a Miele with AutoOpen drying, a failure of this door-opening mechanism can trap steam inside, leaving everything damp. Similarly, on models with fan-assisted drying, a failed fan motor will stop air from circulating, leading to wet dishes. Our technicians can test the heating circuit and all drying system components to restore proper function.
• How do you fix a dishwasher that won’t drain?
  A dishwasher that refuses to drain leaves you with a messy, unhygienic pool of water at the bottom of the tub. The first step in addressing this is to check for simple, physical blockages. The most common culprit is a clogged filter. Most dishwashers have a filter system at the bottom of the tub that can be removed and cleaned of food particles and debris. You should also check your kitchen sink’s garbage disposal, as a clog there can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. Ensure the drain hose that connects the dishwasher to the sink plumbing is not kinked or pinched behind the unit.
  
  If these simple checks do not resolve the issue, the problem is likely a failed component within the dishwasher itself. The drain pump motor is the part responsible for actively pumping the water out. This motor can become jammed with a hard piece of debris, or it can simply burn out over time. If you hear a humming or grinding noise but no water is draining, the motor is likely the issue. In other cases, the problem could be electronic, such as a faulty main control board that is not sending the signal to the drain pump to activate. A professional technician can safely test these components to pinpoint the failure and perform a reliable repair.
• What causes a dishwasher to start leaking from the bottom?
  A dishwasher leaking water from the bottom is a serious issue that can cause significant damage to your kitchen floors and cabinetry and should be addressed immediately. There are several potential sources for a leak. One of the most common causes is a worn-out or damaged door gasket. This is the rubber or vinyl seal that runs around the edge of the door or the tub opening. Over time, it can become brittle, cracked, or caked with residue, preventing a watertight seal. Another frequent cause is a problem with the water inlet valve, which can get stuck open and allow the dishwasher to overfill, forcing water out of the door.
  
  The leak may also originate from a component underneath the dishwasher. The drain pump or circulation pump seals can fail over time, causing water to drip out from the motor assembly. The water inlet and drain hoses themselves can also develop cracks or have loose connections at the point where they attach to the dishwasher. On some models, a crack in the plastic tub or a failed seal around the heating element can also be the source of a leak. Our experienced technicians can meticulously trace the source of the leak, whether it is a simple gasket or a complex pump seal, and provide a secure and lasting solution.
• Is it worth repairing a 10-year-old dishwasher?
  This is an excellent question that many homeowners face. The decision to repair an older dishwasher often depends on three key factors: the brand, the overall condition of the machine, and the nature of the repair. High-quality brands known for their durability, such as Bosch, Miele, or KitchenAid, are often excellent candidates for repair even at the 10-year mark, as they are built to have a long service life. If the appliance has been well-maintained and is free from major rust or cosmetic damage, a repair can be a very sensible way to extend the life of your investment for several more years.
  
  The specific problem also plays a major role. A common issue like a clogged drain pump, a faulty door latch, or a worn-out spray arm is typically a straightforward and economical repair. These are considered routine wear-and-tear items. However, a failure of a major electronic control board or the main circulation motor might be a more significant consideration. Our technicians can provide you with a clear and honest assessment. By performing a thorough diagnosis, we can give you the information you need to make an informed decision between a repair and a premature replacement.
• Why isn’t my dishwasher getting water?
  A dishwasher that will not fill with water will not be able to clean your dishes at all. This issue can be caused by several factors, starting with the water supply to the appliance. First, you should check the hot water supply valve under your sink to ensure it is fully turned on. You should also check the water supply hose for any kinks or twists that might be blocking the flow of water.
  
  If the water supply is confirmed to be on, the problem is likely a failed component within the dishwasher. The most common culprit is the water inlet valve. This is an electronically controlled valve that opens to allow water into the machine. Over time, the valve can become clogged with sediment or its solenoid can fail, preventing it from opening. Another potential cause is a problem with the float switch. The float is a small device in the bottom of the tub that rises with the water level and signals the inlet valve to shut off. If the float is stuck in the “up” position, the dishwasher will think it is full of water and will not allow any more to enter. A faulty door switch or a problem with the main control board can also prevent the fill cycle from starting.