Common Dishwasher Repair Issues and How to Fix Them

A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in your home—until it stops working properly. Whether you’re dealing with puddles under your appliance, unusual noises mid-cycle or a machine that won’t start at all, diagnosing the problem early can save you time, money and hassle.

We will explore some of the most common dishwasher issues, explain what’s likely causing them and share helpful dishwasher troubleshooting tips to fix them yourself. With the right information, you can often avoid costly repairs and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

A dishwasher that won’t drain properly can lead to bad smells, poor cleaning results and even water damage if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are a few things you can try yourself before turning to a professional dishwasher service. Here’s how to fix a dishwasher that won’t drain:

• Check for a clogged drain filter.  The filter traps food and debris, and if it’s blocked, water can’t drain. Remove the bottom rack, take out the filter and rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
• Inspect the drain hose. Kinks or clogs in the hose can stop water from flowing out. Unplug the appliance, examine the hose for blockages and flush it with water if needed.
• Look at the garbage disposal connection. If your dishwasher drains through the disposal, make sure it’s clear. Run the disposal to remove any buildup, and if recently installed, confirm the knockout plug was removed.
• Examine the air gap (if present). Some kitchens have a small air gap near the sink that can get clogged with debris. Remove the cover and clean out any buildup to restore proper drainage.

If these steps don’t solve the problem, there could be a more serious issue like a faulty drain pump or malfunctioning check valve. In that case, contacting a professional repair technician may be your best bet.

Finding water on the floor near your dishwasher can be frustrating—and potentially damaging to your kitchen. Leaks can happen for several reasons, but many are simple to identify and fix on your own. Here’s how to fix a leaking dishwasher:

• Check the door gasket. The rubber seal around the door can wear out or get dirty over time. If you find cracks or tears, replacing the gasket is usually easy and affordable.
• Inspect the spray arms. If the spray arms are cracked, clogged or misaligned, they can spray water in the wrong direction, causing leaks. Remove the arms, rinse out any debris and ensure they spin freely.
• Examine the door latch. A loose or misaligned latch might prevent the door from sealing tightly. Tighten any visible screws or consider replacing the latch mechanism if it doesn’t close securely.
• Inspect the water inlet valve and hoses. Leaks near the bottom or back may indicate a faulty inlet valve or loose water lines. Check carefully for drips or corrosion.

If a leak persists after these checks, it could be related to internal components like a worn-out pump seal or cracked tub, which is especially common in an older or broken dishwasher. If this is the case, professional help is recommended.

Food particles, grease and soap scum can build up over time, especially in hidden areas, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and mildew. If your dishwasher smells, don't ignore it. Here's how to freshen up your dishwasher and prevent bad smells:

• Clean the filter. A dirty or clogged filter is a common culprit. Remove it from the tub, rinse it under warm water and scrub it with a soft brush if needed.
• Wipe down the door seals and edges. Bits of food and moisture can collect around the rubber gasket and door frame. Use a damp cloth with mild soap or vinegar to clean thoroughly.
• Run a cleaning cycle. Place a dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle with the dishwasher empty. For extra deodorizing, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short cycle the next day.
• Inspect the spray arms and drain. Debris in the spray arms or near the drain can block water flow and cause odors. Clear any buildup to keep things running and smelling fresh.

Another good tip to prevent dishwasher smells is to leave the door open between cycles, which can help reduce moisture and keep smells from developing. With regular cleaning, the right dishwasher accessories and simple maintenance, you can keep your dishwasher smelling fresh and performing at its best.

It can be frustrating when your dishwasher won’t start, but the issue may be simpler than it seems. If you’re dealing with a dishwasher not starting, there are a few simple things to check before calling for service:

• Make sure the door is fully closed. Most dishwashers won’t start unless the door is properly latched. Press firmly to ensure it’s shut all the way and check the latch for visible damage.
• Confirm power supply. Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If it’s hardwired, check the switch under the sink.
• Check the control panel. Sometimes the control lock or delay start is accidentally activated. Look for indicator lights or error messages and consult your manual to clear settings.
• Inspect the selector buttons. If buttons feel stuck or unresponsive, the control panel may not register input. Clean around the controls and reset them by unplugging the dishwasher for a few minutes.

If your dishwasher won’t start even after running through these checks, listen for unusual silence. If you hear no sound at all after trying to start a cycle, there could be an issue with the timer, control board or door switch.

While many common dishwasher problems can be fixed with basic tools and a little know-how, some repair jobs are better left to the pros. If you’re dealing with a dishwasher not working and the issue still isn’t resolved—or if you’re dealing with electrical components, water damage or repeated leaks—it may be time to look into dishwasher repair services.

Dealing with dishwasher issues doesn’t always mean replacing your appliance. If you go that route and are wondering what to look for when shopping for a dishwasher, consider factors like size, energy efficiency, noise level and the types of wash cycles that suit your household’s needs. However, with the right tips and a little routine maintenance, many problems—from draining failures to unpleasant odors—can be handled quickly and affordably. Knowing the basics of dishwasher repair empowers you to take action and keep your dishwasher running efficiently.