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Encountering dishwasher dilemmas like dishes refusing to dry or stubborn food residue can turn kitchen cleanup into a headache.
Dishwasher dispenser not working
Common reasons your dishwasher dispenser not working
The most common reasons your dishwasher dispenser is not working are a broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a clogged water valve.
46% of the time it's the Detergent Dispenser
31% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
13% of the time it's the Water Valve
10% of the time it's the Something else
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Common dishwasher repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.
Detergent Dispenser Replacement
If the detergent dispenser isn't working, it might be due to an internal issue that's stopping it from opening. Inside the detergent dispenser, there's a switch that releases the latch, allowing a spring to snap the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, faulty switch, or defective latch can prevent the dispenser from working. It's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser if it's not working properly.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the dishwasher detergent dispenser isn't working, it may be due to a faulty electronic control board. The internal logic and relays in the electronic control board are responsible for sending electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser, which opens the lid latch and dispenses the detergent. If the internal logic becomes corrupted or the relays fail, it can prevent the dispenser from working properly. It's a good idea to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert inspect the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it's found to be defective.
Water Valve Replacement
If the detergent dispenser isn't working, it might have a problem inside that's stopping it from opening. There's a switch inside the detergent dispenser that releases the latch, so a spring can snap the lid open during the cycle. If the spring is broken, the switch doesn't work properly, or the latch is defective, the dispenser won't work. When the detergent dispenser isn't working, it's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace it.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher dispenser not working issue
Fixing a dispenser not working problem
Fixing most issues with the dispenser not working typically requires replacing either the detergent dispenser or the water valve. However, since there are many potential causes, a thorough diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important for understanding the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services recommends these steps for fixing a dispenser that is not working
If the dishwasher dispenser isn't working, there could be several reasons why. To prevent replacing parts that aren't necessary, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to find out what's causing the problem. Our technicians have experience diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.
What to watch for with a dishwasher dispenser not working diagnosis
Figuring out issues with modern appliances without the right knowledge and training can be hard. If you don't use the right diagnostic techniques, trying to fix your dishwasher problem might mean just guessing and swapping out parts. Appliances, especially in the last decade, have gotten very advanced, with lots of electronic parts that are tricky to test. Doing repairs yourself on the latest appliance models is getting much harder.
A dispenser that won’t open wastes detergent and leaves plates half-washed. Damaged springs or a faulty actuator often need attention. Rather than re-rinsing everything, rely on dishwasher repair near me.
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Thorough
James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dishwasher dispenser not working?
Check the dispenser for detergent clogs or damage. See if the door latch is functioning and inspect the dispenser wiring (with the dishwasher unplugged).
Could a clogged dishwasher dispenser cause it to stop working?
Yes, food particles or detergent buildup can block the dispenser from opening.
How do I fix a dishwasher dispenser that’s not working?
Clean the dispenser and check its door latch. Unplug the dishwasher and check the dispenser wiring for problems.
What causes a dishwasher dispenser to stop working?
A clogged dispenser, malfunctioning door latch, a wiring failure or control issues can prevent the dispenser from working.
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Glossary Terms
A dishwasher basket is a removable container designed to securely hold small items like cutlery and utensils during the wash cycle, ensuring efficient cleaning without loss or damage.
A dishwasher end panel is a finishing piece installed on the exposed side of a dishwasher, primarily when it is at the end of kitchen cabinetry, to ensure a seamless and aesthetically pleasing look in the kitchen.
A dishwasher diverter motor controls the direction of water flow to different spray arms within the dishwasher, ensuring optimal water distribution during each wash cycle for thorough cleaning.
A dishwasher drawer is a compact, space-saving kitchen appliance designed to clean dishes efficiently, resembling a standard kitchen drawer that slides out for easy loading and unloading.