If you have forgotten to do your annual appliance maintenance checks, they find the most inconvenient times to remind you about their importance. You never fully appreciate the value of a dishwasher until after one breaks down either. Here is all you need to know about repairing a dishwasher and the issues you will want to look for in knowing when to call for a repair service.
Repairing A Broken Dishwasher
You first will want to gather necessary supplies and tools before starting a DIY dishwasher repair. Collect a screwdriver, pliers, a bucket, gloves, sponges, rags, and a small brush. Keep in mind that your appliance is hooked to both electric and water sources. You will only want to attempt a DIY dishwasher repair if you have the required knowledge and tools to proceed safely.
Most dishwasher repair problems can be solved with a bit of DIY ingenuity which allows you to put your dollars away for when those more serious appliance repairs occur. Luckily, lots of dishwasher repairs are easy to accomplish and will not require expertise. That said, if you want to ensure proper safety and repair protocols, give us a call for further appliance repair assistance.
How Does A Dishwasher Function?
Your dishwasher begins by filling the bottom of the tub up with about three gallons of hot water. The detergent dispenser then gets released through the extending spray arms. The dishwasher then drains and fills again with clean water for the rinse cycle. A timer controls the water level while a heating element determines the water temperature which is between 120F and 140F. This same component also determines the dish drying cycle after the wash and rinse cycles complete.
- Unclean Dishes
Are you loading your dishes correctly? Is silverware blocking the spray arm? Are you using appropriate dishwashing detergent? Are your dishes getting hot enough water? Are you using a softener if the water is hard? Unscrew the cap of the spray arm clockwise and remove it off of the arm. Clean it thoroughly before replacing the spray arm cap. You can also clean the float switch with a small brush as dirt and debris will cause it to stick in place. This issue will cause your dishwasher to not fill up with water as well. If you are unsure of your proper water temperature or your dishes are still dirty, contact our office.
- Water Flooding On Floor
If you notice water on your floor, you will want to check the door gaskets for dirt or caked-on food which you can clean easily with a brush or a sponge. Most of the time, you will find the door is not poorly sealed which you will notice during your next wash cycle.
- Door Not Closing Properly
Next, check to see if your dishwasher door trembles. If so, you need to readjust it. There is an adjustment level plate at the bottom of the dishwasher’s frame. Take it slow as too much adjustment or not enough of it will cause further flooding issues to occur.
If you find that you have dishwasher motor issues, need help fixing dishwasher control panels, have a broken dishwasher detergent dispenser, need to drain a broken dishwasher, are unsure of how to fix a broken dishwasher door, or there is an electric or plumbing issue you can not troubleshoot, call use at CS Appliance Service at (781) 953-9600 or on our Facebook page.