Dishwasher troubleshooting
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? Fix It
Poor cleaning is usually about water — getting enough of it, hot enough, sprayed where it needs to go. Here's what to check.
Common causes
Clogged spray arms
You can checkFood and mineral deposits block the spray-arm holes so water can't reach the dishes.
Dirty filter
You can checkA clogged filter recirculates dirty water and redeposits debris on dishes.
Weak water inlet valve
Pro repairA failing valve lets in too little water for a proper wash.
Failed wash pump or motor
Pro repairA worn wash pump can't build enough spray pressure to clean.
What you can check yourself
- Remove the spray arms and clear each hole with a toothpick; rinse.
- Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub.
- Run the hot tap at the sink before starting so the dishwasher fills with hot water.
- Don't over-pack; use fresh detergent and a rinse aid.
When to call a pro
If the arms and filter are clean but dishes still come out dirty, the inlet valve or wash pump is likely weak — a tech can confirm and replace it.
Most dishwasher repairs run $120–$400 — see our repair cost guide.
Other dishwasher problems
FAQ
Dishwasher not cleaning dishes — questions
Poor cleaning is usually about water — getting enough of it, hot enough, sprayed where it needs to go. Here's what to check. The most common causes are clogged spray arms, dirty filter, weak water inlet valve.
You can safely check a few things first: Remove the spray arms and clear each hole with a toothpick; rinse. Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub. Run the hot tap at the sink before starting so the dishwasher fills with hot water. If the arms and filter are clean but dishes still come out dirty, the inlet valve or wash pump is likely weak — a tech can confirm and replace it.
Most dishwasher repairs run $120–$400 in the San Francisco Bay Area, parts and labor — you get a flat-rate quote before any work begins. See our repair cost guide for details.
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