Dishwasher won't wash

Common reasons your dishwasher won't wash

The most common reasons your dishwasher won't wash are a faulty pump and motor assembly, defective electronic control board or a clogged spray arm.

50% of the time it's the
Pump and Motor Assembly

9% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

8% of the time it's the
Spray Arm

33% 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.

Pump and Motor Assembly Replacement

When your dishwasher fails to wash, a defective pump and motor assembly are often to blame. This assembly propels water up through the spray arms to cleanse dishes during the cycle. If a damaged pump impeller or malfunctioning motor disrupts its operation, dishes won't receive a thorough cleaning. Unusual sounds like buzzing or grinding from the pump and motor assembly may indicate a problem. Arrange for a Sears Home Services technician to assess and repair your dishwasher if you suspect a faulty pump.

How to replace a dishwasher pump and motor assembly

Electronic Control Board Replacement

When your dishwasher fails to clean dishes, a malfunctioning pump and motor assembly are often at fault. This assembly is responsible for directing water up through the spray arms to wash the dishes during the cycle. If a damaged pump impeller or a malfunctioning motor disrupts its operation, the dishes won't receive a thorough cleaning. Unusual sounds like buzzing or grinding from the pump and motor assembly may indicate a problem. Arrange for a Sears Home Services technician to visit your home and repair the dishwasher if a faulty pump is suspected.

How to replace a dishwasher electronic control board

Spray Arm Replacement

When your dishwasher fails to clean dishes effectively, a blocked spray arm might be the culprit. Mineral deposits or debris can accumulate around the spray arm holes, obstructing the flow of water and hindering proper cleaning. Additionally, if the spray holes become clogged, the spray arm won't spin correctly. To address this issue, it's advisable to request a visit from a Sears Home Services Repair Expert to inspect your dishwasher. The technician will assess the situation and clear any blockages in the spray arms to restore efficient cleaning performance.

How to replace a dishwasher lower spray arm

What to expect when you experience a dishwasher won't wash issue

How to repair the won't wash problem

To address most issues where the dishwasher fails to wash dishes, the typical solution often entails replacing either the pump and motor assembly, the electronic control board, or the spray arm. However, since there can be various underlying reasons for this problem, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving it effectively. A precise diagnosis is vital for determining the extent of the repair needed and its associated costs.

Sears Home Services advice for a dishwasher that won't wash

If your dishwasher isn't washing dishes, there could be multiple causes. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact issue. Our technicians are skilled at diagnosing various dishwasher problems.

What you'll see with a dishwasher won't wash diagnosis

Identifying issues with modern appliances can be tough without the right expertise. Trying to fix your dishwasher without proper diagnostic methods might lead to replacing parts randomly. Appliances, particularly those made in the last decade, have complex electronic components that are hard to check. DIY repairs on newer appliance models are getting more challenging.

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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