Why Your Dishwasher Isn’t Cleaning Dishes Properly

A dishwasher is supposed to make your life easier. You load it, push a button, and let it do all the hard work. But what happens when you open the door, and your dishes are still dirty? It’s frustrating, right? If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning dishes the way it should, there are several possible reasons. The good news is that most of these problems can be fixed.

In this article, we’ll go over the most common causes, how to fix them, and when to call the experts at A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance to get your dishwasher back in top shape.

1. Clogged Spray Arms

The spray arms in your dishwasher shoot out water to clean your dishes. Over time, food particles, grease, and even minerals from hard water can block the holes. When the water can’t spray properly, your dishes won’t get fully clean.

How to fix it:

• Remove the spray arms and rinse them under warm water.
• Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any blocked holes.
• Make sure they can spin freely before putting them back.

If cleaning doesn’t work, the spray arms might need to be replaced. Our technicians can quickly install new ones so your dishwasher works like new.

2. Dirty or Clogged Filters

Most dishwashers have filters that catch food bits before they clog the drain. If the filter is full, dirty water keeps circulating inside your dishwasher, which means your dishes get washed with gunky water.

How to fix it:

• Remove the bottom rack and twist out the filter.
• Wash it under running water with a soft brush.
• Do this once a month to keep things clean.

If the filter is damaged, we can replace it so your dishwasher stays efficient.

3. Low Water Temperature

Dishwashers need hot water—usually at least 120°F—to clean properly. If the water is too cool, grease won’t dissolve, and your dishes will stay dirty.

How to fix it:

• Run your sink’s hot water for a minute before starting the dishwasher.
• Check your water heater settings to make sure it’s at the right temperature.

If the heating element inside your dishwasher is broken, our repair team can replace it to make sure your water gets hot enough.

4. Overloading the Dishwasher

It’s tempting to cram in every plate, cup, and fork to save time, but overloading blocks water and detergent from reaching every item. That means you’ll have to rewash, wasting more time and energy.

How to fix it:

• Follow the loading guide in your dishwasher’s manual.
• Leave enough space between dishes for water to flow.
• Don’t block the spray arms or detergent dispenser.

5. Wrong Detergent or Too Much of It

Using the wrong type of detergent or too much can leave a soapy film on your dishes. It can also create buildup inside your dishwasher, affecting how well it cleans.

How to fix it:

• Use detergent made specifically for dishwashers.
• Measure the right amount—more detergent doesn’t mean cleaner dishes.
• Try a rinse aid to help water slide off dishes and prevent spots.

6. Blocked Drain or Pump Problems

If dirty water isn’t draining properly, it can cause food particles to stick to your dishes. This is often due to a clogged drain or a faulty drain pump.

How to fix it:

• Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
• Clean out any visible debris near the drain.
• If the pump is broken, our experts can replace it quickly.

7. Hard Water Build-Up

If you live in an area with hard water, minerals can build up inside your dishwasher. This not only leaves spots on your dishes but can also affect the machine’s performance.

How to fix it:

• Use a dishwasher cleaner once a month.
• Add a water softener if needed.
• Regular maintenance can keep hard water from causing bigger problems.

When to Call a Professional

Some dishwasher problems are easy to fix on your own, but others need a trained technician. If you’ve tried the tips above and your dishwasher still isn’t cleaning, it could be due to:

• A broken motor
• Faulty sensors
• Wiring problems
• Worn-out gaskets or seals

At A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance, we have the tools and experience to find the problem fast and fix it right the first time.

How A+ Appliance Repair Can Help

Our team repairs all major dishwasher brands and models. Whether it’s a clogged filter, broken spray arm, or electrical issue, we’ll get your dishwasher running smoothly again. We also offer same-day service in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Montgomery County, TX so you don’t have to deal with dirty dishes for long.

Why choose us?

• Fast, reliable repairs
• Affordable pricing
• Skilled, friendly technicians
• Fully stocked vans for quick fixes

Final Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher in Top Shape

• Clean the filter regularly
• Run hot water before starting a cycle
• Use the right detergent
• Avoid overloading
• Schedule routine maintenance

Keeping your dishwasher clean and well-maintained will help it run efficiently and keep your dishes sparkling.

If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly, don’t wait until it stops working completely. Call A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance today at (800) 819-4195 for fast and affordable service.