Most Dishwasher Problems Have Simple Solutions
Many dishwasher issues that seem like they need a technician can actually be resolved with a 10-minute fix at home. Before spending money on a service call, work through these common problems and their solutions.
Problem 1: Dishes Aren't Coming Out Clean
Most likely causes:
- Spray arms blocked — small food particles or mineral deposits clog the holes in the spray arms, reducing water pressure and coverage. Remove the spray arms (they usually pull off or unscrew) and rinse them under running water, using a toothpick to clear any blocked holes.
- Filter clogged — the mesh filter at the bottom of the dishwasher traps food debris. If it's not cleaned regularly, it blocks water flow. Remove, rinse and scrub with a soft brush every 2–4 weeks.
- Wrong detergent amount — too little doesn't clean; too much leaves residue. Use the recommended amount for your water hardness.
- Water temperature too low — dishwashers work best with water entering at 60°C. If your hot water system is set low or the machine runs before the water has reached full temperature, cleaning suffers.
Problem 2: Dishes Coming Out Wet
Most likely causes:
- Rinse aid empty — rinse aid is crucial for water sheeting off dishes during the drying phase. Check and refill the rinse aid reservoir.
- Plastic items don't dry as well as glass or ceramic — this is normal, as plastic can't retain heat the way glass does.
- Auto-open drying (if your machine has it) — ensure the door is free to open slightly at cycle end.
Problem 3: Dishwasher Isn't Draining
Most likely causes:
- Filter clogged (see above)
- Drain hose kinked or blocked — check the drain hose at the back of the machine for kinks, and ensure it's properly connected to the sink drain
- Air gap or garbage disposal blocked (if applicable) — if your dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal unit, ensure it's clear
Problem 4: Dishwasher Making Unusual Noise
Most likely causes:
- Spray arm hitting a dish — check loading; tall items sometimes block the spray arm's rotation
- Loose item in the bottom — a small piece of glass or bone can rattle in the pump
- Worn pump bearing (this would need a technician if the noise is grinding and persistent)
Problem 5: Water Spots on Glasses
Most likely causes:
- Low rinse aid — refill and increase the rinse aid dosage setting if adjustable
- Hard water — hard water leaves mineral deposits on glass. Run a dishwasher cleaner (Finish, Cascade) monthly and ensure rinse aid is always present
- Using too much detergent — excess detergent can film on glass
Problem 6: Bad Smell from the Dishwasher
Solution: Run a hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaning tablet and clean the filter. The smell usually comes from food residue in the filter or on the door seal.
When to Call a Technician
- Water leaking from the door or underneath the machine
- Control panel unresponsive or showing error codes that don't clear
- Grinding noise that persists after checking for loose items
- Machine filling with water but not washing (pump failure)
If your dishwasher is older than 8–10 years and facing a major repair, the cost-benefit case for replacement is often stronger. Browse our range of quality second-hand and refurbished dishwashers at Oceania Appliances — Wetherill Park showroom or online, free delivery across Sydney, all with our 3–6 month warranty.