Integrated Dishwasher Troubleshooting

As with any kitchen appliance, after prolonged use you’re likely to run into some issues. This is of course expected after time and with dishwashers we see a few common issues crop up. 

The good news is that a lot of these common dishwasher problems can be remedied yourself, or prevented altogether with some careful maintenance and treatment. Some of these issues will require professional help however. If these problems keep on occurring, it may make more sense to replace the whole unit itself.

However,this is only when you’ve reached the end of your tether with it, and repairing it is becoming more costly than replacing it. Until then, here are our tips on fixing and preventing some common dishwasher problems. 

Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Bad?

A very common problem with dishwashers, after prolonged use, it can start to smell real bad. Before we go into how to remedy this situation, we have a top prevention tip for you. Rinse your washing. It might seem defeatist to rinse all your plates and so on before putting them through a dishwasher cycle but it removes stubborn debris that will just accumulate in your dishwasher. 

If your dishwasher is pretty funky, and not in a good way, you need to look to the screen located at the bottom. Check this for food and debris. Give this a thorough clean and see if that helps.

If it’s a strong chemical smell, then some plastic may have fallen into the heating element. If so, you need to locate and remove it.

There’s a chance your drain hose has a kink in it, which is collecting debris. Or that it’s positioned too low. It needs to be above the tailpiece. Clean your drain hose and if it still persists, you may need to replace it. 

Why Isn’t My Dishwasher Drying Dishes?

If your dishwasher isn’t drying your dishes properly, the first thing you need to assess is if you’re loading it properly. If you’re overloading it, drying won’t be as effective as the water and steam won’t move as freely. 

If not this, it may be the amount of rinse aid that you’re adding. Or there’s a problem with the heating element. If you’re confident in your tinkering skills, have a look at the heating element, but it may be advisable to call a professional if the problem persists.

Why Won’t My Dishwasher Drain?

If you’re left with a puddle of water at the bottom of your machine after each wash, then the dishwasher isn’t draining properly. There are two main culprits for this.

First, is that your filters are blocked. If this is the case, you need to get in there and start unclogging. In order to prevent this, you’ll want to clean your filters regularly. 

If the filters are fine, then you need to check your drain hose. Disconnect it and blow through it, this may dislodge any old food.

The third option is to check your drain valve. Make sure your valve bracket is moving freely. This part may need replacing if it’s not working. 

Why Isn’t My Dishwasher Cleaning Dishes?

If your dishwasher isn’t;’t doing what it was put on this green earth to do, then you’ve got a problem. Again, the answer lies in making sure you’re cleaning it thoroughly. 

Clean the spray arm thoroughly. Remove it altogether and give it a proper clean. Clean your filters, and clean the float. Give your filter screen a clean and replace the inlet valve if you want to go all out.

If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning your load properly even after being thoroughly cleaned itself, then again look to the drainage hose and water supply. These will be your next port of call. 

If that still does not provide any answers, then you’ll need to either call in a pro or think about replacing it. 

Why Is My Dishwasher Noisy?

If your dishwasher is making more noise than usual then your drain pump could be at fault. Check to see its not clogged. Another place to check is the spray arm. For integrated dishwashers, if they haven’t been properly fastened to the cabinet this is another culprit for noise. 

Why Is There Limescale on My Glasses?

This is a very common problem and is less to do with your dishwasher than it is your water supply. If your supply is hard water then your glasses may come out cloudy. Use rinse aid to counteract this, or invest in some dishwasher-safe glasses that have been designed to prevent this. 

Why Won’t My Dishwasher Start?

If this is the case, then you need to consult your electrics and the electric system of the dishwasher. You’ll probably want a professional for this as its delicate work that an experienced professional will have no problem with. If you’re confident in your DIY abilities then by all means have a root around yourself, just make sure you’ve turned off the power to the dishwasher before you start poking around. 

Hopefully, we’ve been able to provide some remedies to your dishwasher woes. Like any other appliance, they aren’t invincible. Your dishwasher will eventually start showing some symptoms. To avoid this, you need to make sure you are cleaning it regularly. Rinse all your washing before putting it in, and just checking the main components as you go should help you nip any problems in the bud

If your dishwasher keeps on giving you problems, then it may just be time to get a new one. Luckily for you, we have a wide range of dishwashers, freestanding and integrated, at great prices and with free delivery. Shop our range to get yourself a top-quality dishwasher from a market-leading manufacturer.