Home Dishwasher Repair

Dishwasher repair can be simple. It just depends on what the problem is, and that may be difficult to assess. It could be that something is blocking one of the arms from moving to the drain. When trying to determine the problem, always shut off the electricity to the unit for safety.

Inspecting for Blockages in the Sprayer Arms and Feed Tube

• Look around inside the dishwasher to see if you can find the problem. Make sure nothing is blocking the arms from moving or spraying water, like a misplaced utensil.


• The arms should come off for inspection. See if there is any blockage in them. If your dishwasher has a sprayer from the very top, unscrew it and check for blockage. Some only have a curved piece with tiny holes in it on the ceiling of the dishwasher and those tiny holes can get clogged.


• If it's a built-in model, pull the dishwasher out to inspect the water feed tube that runs up the back of the unit. After you have the piece in the ceiling unscrewed, you can inspect this tube for blockage.

Inspecting for Blockages at the Drain

Remove the sprayer arm assembly and shield from the bottom of the dishwasher to reach the basin. Remove most of the water in there so you can see what you are doing and looking at. At the very lowest point in the basin there is a perpendicular flexible flap. Ensure that nothing is blocking this flap. Clean up all the parts in warm, soapy water upon reassembly.

When to Call a Professional

If none of these suggestions explain the problem or there is an unusual smell, smoke or sound coming from the unit, consult with an appliance repair person. Check to see if your unit is still under warranty, as these repairs can be expensive.