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The 4 things to fix your common dishwasher problems

Universal Appliance Repair has your back when it comes to repairing any appliance in your home. As an investment in our customers, we empower you with the information you need to fix some common appliance problems yourself. Have a malfunctioning dishwasher? Here are some simple tips on diagnosing and fixing common problems with dishwashers that can save you time and money.

1. Is it the water?

If you are experiencing cloudiness on your freshly washed glasses, your dishwasher may be perfectly fine and is not to blame. The hardness of your water can cause cloudiness in glassware. Before breaking out the toolbox, check your water. Also, if you experience white streaks on your glasses instead, this can be corrected by using low temperature cycles.

2. Are your dishes not dry?

If by the end of the dish washing process, your dishes are not dry in a normal amount of time, and the dishes were loaded correctly, try using a heated drying cycle. Oftentimes it may be necessary to employ the heated drying cycle to ensure that the dishes will dry properly.  

3. Is the dishwasher leaking water?

One of the most distressing problems that can occur with a dishwasher is the leaking and pooling of water on the floor. This makes a mess, but fortunately is something you can easily fix yourself. Improper dish washing liquid can cause the dishwasher to produce tons of foam that can overtake your kitchen floor. Only use the liquid specified by the manufacturer.  If it isn’t the fluid, it could be the gasket.  Dishwasher gaskets can become loose, cracked, worn, or discolored.  Problems with the gasket are common culprits behind dishwasher leaking. If there is moisture directly underneath your dishwasher, it probably means there is a problem with the gasket. Dishwasher gaskets can easily be replaced, so don’t be afraid to try this one yourself, just follow the instructions specific to your manufacturer when installing the new gasket.

4. Does your dishwasher hum but not run?

If you are experiencing a humming sound from your dishwasher when you turn it on, and it won’t run, it could be the motor.  If you haven’t run your dishwasher in some time, the motor could be stuck.  In most cases you can fix this yourself.  First, turn the electric off at the main level for safety.  Then remove the bottom panel from your dishwasher.  If the motor is stuck, just spin the fan blades using your hand. Usually that’s all you should have to do to get the motor back into shape.  If the blades are stuck however, then you might want to call us!