DIY Dishwasher Fixes for Common Problems
Our favorite must-have kitchen appliance is also one of the most hard working items in our kitchen, the dishwasher. And even with the latest technology rendering dishwashers virtually trouble-free, a few minor problems will pop up occasionally due to constant usage. Fortunately the minor problems also have simple DIY fixes so you can get your dishwasher running like new again without calling a repairman.
Water in Dishwasher Bottom
If water is standing in the dishwasher bottom after washing a load of dishes, you have a clogged drain . To fix this common problem, empty the dishwasher and look for the drain filter. The drain filter is located differently in each machine, but it’s usually located in the bottom under the spray arm.
The drain filter will be a small plastic mesh container which fits in or over the drain to catch debris. Remove the filter, clean and replace. That should fix the dishwasher problem.
Dishes Coming Out Dirty
If your dishes are still dirty at the end of the wash cycle, you probably have a clogged water sprayer. To fix, empty the dishwasher and turn off the power to the appliance.
Remove the spray arm(s) from inside the dishwasher. All are easily removable, consult your manual for exactly how to remove yours. Inspect the water holes for calcium build up or other debris and clean each hole with a toothpick. Rinse spray arms and replace inside of dishwasher. Don’t forget to turn power back on.
Door Leaks
If water leaks out the door during a wash cycle, either the door has been knocked off kilter (perhaps someone stood on it or bumped into it) or the door gasket needs replaced. If the door looks uneven, use a screw driver to pop off the door screw caps at the bottom door hinge and tighten or loosen the screws until the door is even once again. If it’s the rubber gasket, your owner’s manual will walk you through that DIY fix.
Cloudy Glass Fix
If your glasses have become cloudy since being washed in the dishwasher, use this trick to determine the cause – Soak one cloudy glass in white vinegar for five minutes. If the cloudiness disappears, blame hard water, not your dishwasher.
If the glass is still cloudy at the end of the vinegar soak, you’ve been using too much detergent and/or too hot of a water temperature in the dishwasher and the glasses are permanently etched and nothing will remove the cloudiness. To prevent cloudy glasses in the future, use a cooler water temperature and less detergent.
Prevent Streaky Dishes
When clean dishes come out with streaks on them, hard water is usually the culprit. Fix this problem by using a rinse air in the dishwasher.
Greasy Feeling Dishes
If the freshly washed dishes still feel greasy, the water temperature is not hot enough. Most dishwashers have their own heating element, so consult the owner’s manual on how to increase water temperature. If not, turn your hot water heater up a few degrees.
Something’s Burning
If it smells like something is burning while your dishwasher is running, something probably is. A plastic bowl, cup etc., may have moved and come into contact with the heating element. Stop the dishwasher and remove the item, then resume the wash cycle.
Sources:
Personal Experience
