When you start noticing your dishes are coming out dirty after a cycle in the dishwasher, you may assume it a problem with the appliance. In most cases, this may be the problem, but there can also be kitchen plumbing issues to blame. To troubleshoot the problem, here are a few tips to get to the cause of the cleaning issues.
- Clean your dishwasher. If your dishes are left with specs of debris or spots, you may just need a good cleaning of your dishwasher. Sprinkle some baking soda on the bottom of your empty dishwasher and put a small cup of white vinegar in the rack. Run a full cycle and wipe down the interior once it finishes.
- Check the drain. Sometimes food debris can clog the drain inside the dishwasher. Make sure the drain is clear and allowing dirty water to clear before the rinse cycle. Remove any particles and try running the dishwasher with only a few dishes to see if they come out clean.
- Test again. If the drain is clear and the dishwasher is clean, try running a test cycle with a few clean dishes inside. If the dishes have debris on them when it is finished, you may have a clog in the plumbing that is backing up during the dishwasher cycle. This will require the help of a plumber to remove the clog so your dishwasher can work properly.
If your dishwasher is clean and there is not a plumbing clog, it is most likely a mechanical issue within the appliance. It may need repair or replacement, depending on the issue. Call your local appliance repair shop for help.
Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing, Inc.
106-M Oakgrove Road
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441
