6 Reasons Your Dishwasher Is Leaving Your Dishes Filthy (And How to Fix It)
Our family recently experienced the frustration of a dishwasher that wasn’t quite working. When you open up the washer, you expect to see shiny, clean dishes. If you find that your dishes are still dirty, there could be several things causing this issue. Here’s a look at some of the potential problems that can cause this.
1. Clogged Spray Arms
One of the most common reasons your dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly is clogged spray arms. These are the rotating arms at the bottom and top of your dishwasher that spray water onto your dishes during the wash cycle. Over time, food particles, mineral deposits, and soap scum can clog the small holes in the spray arms, reducing the water pressure and preventing proper cleaning.
To fix clogged spray arms, inspect the spray arms for any blockages. Check your owner’s manual and pinpoint how to remove the spray arms from the dishwasher. Once they are out, you can rinse them under warm water. If you see any stubborn clogs, use a toothpick or small brush to clear them out. Reattach them and then start the dishwasher. Your dishes should come out clean again, unless it’s another one of these pesky problems.
2. Dirty Filter
Dishwashers come equipped with filters that capture food particles and debris during the wash cycle. If the filter becomes clogged or dirty, it can lead to a buildup of residue that affects the performance of the dishwasher. When this happens, your dishwasher won’t be able to properly wash and rinse your dishes, leaving them filthy at the end of the cycle.
Taking care of this issue is fairly straightforward. Take the filter out (it is usually close to the spray arms). Again, rinse it with warm water and scrub away any debris with a soft brush. Doing this every few weeks can help keep your dishwasher running at its best.
3. Overloaded Dishwasher
It may seem tempting to load as many dishes as possible into the dishwasher to save time, but overloading it can actually result in dirty dishes. When you cram too many items into the dishwasher, water and detergent won’t be able to reach all the surfaces effectively. This leaves certain dishes with food residue, soap scum, or even water spots.
Avoid overloading your dishwasher by following the manufacturer’s guidelines for loading capacity. Make sure that dishes are spaced properly and that water can flow freely between items. As a good rule of thumb, large pots, pans, and bowls should be placed on the bottom rack, and smaller items should go on the top rack.
4. Incorrect Detergent Use
Using the wrong type or amount of detergent is another common cause of dishes coming out dirty. Too much detergent can cause soap scum and residue buildup, while too little detergent might not provide enough cleaning power to wash your dishes properly. Additionally, certain detergents may not be effective in hard water areas, leaving spots and grime on your dishes.
Double-check that you’re using the correct type of detergent for your dishwasher model. If you have hard water, consider using a detergent specifically formulated for hard water conditions. Also, avoid using too much detergent—using the recommended amount can prevent residue buildup and ensure your dishes are thoroughly cleaned.
5. Water Temperature Too Low
If your dishwasher’s water temperature is too low, it can result in poor cleaning performance. The ideal water temperature for most dishwashers is between 120-150°F (49-66°C). Water that’s too cold won’t dissolve detergent effectively and can leave greasy or oily residue on your dishes. If the temperature is too hot, it can damage delicate items, so it’s important to find the right balance.
Check the water temperature by running hot water from the faucet before starting your dishwasher. The water should be hot to the touch but not scalding. If your dishwasher is not reaching the right temperature, you might need to adjust your water heater or check if your dishwasher’s heating element is malfunctioning.
6. Malfunctioning Dishwasher Parts
If your dishwasher is still leaving your dishes dirty despite your best efforts, it may be time to consider whether a malfunctioning part is at fault. Faulty components such as the water inlet valve, pump, or heating element can prevent water from circulating properly or the dishwasher from reaching the right temperature. This can lead to poor cleaning performance and dirty dishes.
If you suspect a malfunctioning part, consult your dishwasher’s user manual for troubleshooting tips. Sometimes, replacing a small part, such as a broken gasket or a malfunctioning pump, can solve the issue.
Keep Your Dishwasher in Top Shape for Cleaner Dishes
When you open your dishwasher, you expect to see clean dishes. However, there are several issues that can cause poor performance, and most of them are easy to fix on your own. Taking care of these issues can help guarantee your dishwasher is working well. Like other appliances, regular maintenance will help ensure that you won’t run into any issues, saving your time and effort.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.