August 8, 2025

Top Signs You Need a Professional Dishwasher Repair Service

Your dishwasher should make life easier, not harder. Learn the top signs it’s time to call a professional dishwasher repair service before small issues turn into costly problems.

A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in your home. It saves you time, keeps your kitchen clean, and makes washing dishes a breeze. But like any machine, dishwashers can develop problems over time. Some issues are small and easy to fix, while others mean it’s time to call in a professional dishwasher repair service. Knowing the signs early can save you money, prevent bigger problems, and help your dishwasher last longer.

In this article, we’ll go over the top signs your dishwasher needs professional repair, what they mean, and why it’s important to get them fixed quickly.

1. Dishes Come Out Dirty

One of the most obvious signs you need a repair is when your dishes aren’t coming out clean. If you run a full cycle and still find food particles, grease, or spots, there’s a problem. This could be caused by:

  • Clogged spray arms that can’t push out enough water.
  • Dirty filters that block water flow.
  • A failing pump or motor that isn’t providing enough pressure.

While cleaning the filters and spray arms can help, if the problem keeps happening, it’s time to get a technician to check for deeper issues.

2. Water Isn’t Draining Properly

After a wash cycle, there should be no standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher. If there is, it could mean:

  • The drain hose is clogged.
  • The drain pump is broken.
  • There’s an issue with the garbage disposal connection.

A little water left behind is normal, but a large pool can cause bad smells, mold growth, and even damage the dishwasher. A professional can figure out if it’s just a blockage or if you need a new part.

3. Strange Noises During the Cycle

Dishwashers aren’t silent, but they shouldn’t make banging, grinding, or squealing sounds. Loud noises can mean:

  • Something is stuck in the pump.
  • The motor bearings are wearing out.
  • A spray arm is hitting a dish because it’s loose or broken.

If you ignore these noises, the problem could get worse and lead to expensive repairs. Calling a repair service right away can stop the damage before it gets worse.

4. Leaks or Water Around the Dishwasher

If you see water pooling around your dishwasher, don’t ignore it. Leaks can come from:

  • A worn-out door seal.
  • A loose or cracked hose.
  • A faulty water inlet valve.

Even a small leak can damage your floors and cabinets, so it’s important to get it fixed immediately. A technician can replace the seal, tighten connections, or swap out damaged parts.

5. Dishwasher Won’t Start

If your dishwasher won’t turn on at all, it could be an electrical problem, a faulty door latch, or an issue with the control board. Before calling for service, make sure:

  • The dishwasher is plugged in.
  • The circuit breaker isn’t tripped.
  • The door is closing properly.

If those things check out, you’ll need a professional to test and replace faulty electrical parts.

6. Bad Smells That Won’t Go Away

A little odor after heavy use is normal, but if your dishwasher smells bad even after cleaning, there could be:

  • Mold or mildew buildup inside hidden parts.
  • Food trapped in the filter or drain.
  • A problem with the drain hose allowing dirty water back in.

Professional cleaning and maintenance can remove deep-seated odors and make sure your dishwasher stays fresh.

7. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Your dishwasher uses hot water to clean and sanitize dishes. If the water isn’t getting hot enough, it might be because:

  • The heating element is broken.
  • There’s an issue with the thermostat.
  • Your home’s hot water supply is inconsistent.

Without hot water, your dishes won’t be fully sanitized, and detergent won’t work as well. A repair service can replace faulty heating parts quickly.

Why You Should Call a Professional Right Away

Many people try to fix dishwasher problems themselves, but without the right tools and experience, you can make things worse. A professional dishwasher repair service can:

  • Diagnose the problem accurately.
  • Use the right replacement parts.
  • Prevent future breakdowns.
  • Save you money in the long run.

By fixing issues early, you can avoid bigger repairs and extend the life of your appliance.

How to Avoid Future Dishwasher Problems

To keep your dishwasher in good shape, follow these tips:

  1. Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogs.
  2. Check spray arms for blockages and clean them as needed.
  3. Run hot water in your sink before starting a cycle for better cleaning.
  4. Avoid overloading so water can reach all the dishes.
  5. Inspect hoses and seals for wear and tear.

These simple steps can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Your dishwasher is a big time-saver, but only if it’s working properly. If you notice dirty dishes, leaks, strange noises, or other warning signs, it’s time to call a professional dishwasher repair service. Fixing problems early can keep your appliance running efficiently and save you from expensive replacements.

At A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance, we specialize in fast, reliable dishwasher repairs. Whether it’s a clogged drain, broken heating element, or faulty pump, our expert technicians can get your dishwasher back to working like new.

Sam Aidaraliev
Founder
Sam Aidaraliev, founder of A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance, has personally repaired thousands of appliances for families across the U.S. Since 2015, he has built a trusted, multi-location service known for skilled technicians, exceptional customer care, and over 1,300 five-star reviews.
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