Dishwasher: Not cleaning dishes

The water inlet valve, also called a solenoid fill valve, controls the flow of water into the dishwasher by opening and closing. If the water inlet valve doesn't open at all, water can't flow into the dishwasher. If it opens partially, the dishwasher won't fill adequately, and the water level will be low-a noisy pump is one indication that the water level is low. Conversely, if the water inlet valve won't close, water fills the dishwasher tub even when the dishwasher is off. If the water inlet valve doesn't open or close correctly, repair or replace it.

Replace the detergent dispenser if it leaks or is physically cracked or broken. Another sign that you may need a detergent dispenser replacement is if it won't open properly during the dishwasher cycle. Additionally, if the latch on the dispenser is broken, consider replacing the entire dispenser assembly.

Several situations can require the replacing the circulation pump and motor assembly in a dishwasher. If the motor on the circulation pump fails, then the dishwasher pump won't run at all. Sometimes the motor runs but doesn't generate water pressure through the spray arms, because the damaged impeller or pump housing is damaged. The pump housing and/or the seals could also deteriorate or become damaged, causing the dishwasher to leak. Problems inside the pump and motor assembly can create abnormal noises in the dishwasher. In all these situations, the pump and motor usually must be replaced.

The diverter motor moves the diverter disc into position so the disc can direct water through the upper spray arms. The dishwasher stops and signals an error code when the diverter motor fails (check out our dishwasher error codes for many brands). Replace the diverter motor if the control signals an error code indicating the diverter motor failed. To prevent damage to a newly installed dishwasher diverter motor, also replace the diverter motor seal (part WPW10195677) if water leaks through the seal. The seal is the gasket around the diverter motor shaft where it meets the bottom of the sump. A leak can damage the diverter motor, as well as counters and flooring near the dishwasher.

A foreign object such as an unpopped popcorn kernel or a shard of glass sometimes migrates into the circulation pump where it causes a grinding noise and interfere with water movement through the pump and sump area. In that situation, you will need to dismantle and clean the circulation pump. The foreign object and/or any debris will need to be removed, and the pump will then need be reassembled.

The wash pump motor, which is mounted on the sump under the dishwasher, spins the wash pump impeller. The wash pump motor will make a loud noise when it is defective. You may also see cleaning problems due to decreased spray pressure. If the pump motor is bad, it will need to be replaced. The motor can usually be released and removed from the sump under the dishwasher tub. Consider replacing the water seals as well when the new wash pump motor is installed for optimal performance.

Some dishwashers have a portion of the circulation pump assembly that can be accessed and repaired from inside the dishwasher tub (from the top of the circulation pump assembly). A clog, a foreign object or a failed seal can prevent the water from flowing to the spray arms. A clog or failed check valve can prevent the dishwasher from draining. Remove the lower spray arm and the top of the sump to inspect the upper circulation pump when spray is weak or the dishwasher won't drain. Clear any clogs and replace any damaged parts to restore water flow to the spray arms or drain pump.