What is worse than a dishwasher that doesn’t work? A dishwasher that doesn’t work when you are hosting a party. Now that is a nightmare no one wants to deal with. All those dishes, unwashed. Of course, you could roll up your sleeves and opt for the old-fashioned route. But you’re not going to do that. To help you keep your dishes and kitchen clean, we have created an outline of ways to respond to a clogged dishwasher.
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Ways to Respond to a Clogged Dishwasher in Your Kitchen
Clogs happen due to excess gunk and soap residue. If your dishwasher is clogged, water is likely not draining and backing up into your dishwasher unit. Turn your dishwasher off, and fix that clog by following the steps below.
1. Inspect the Water Heater
If food is still clinging to your plates for dear life after a cycle, your dishwasher might not be to blame. The issue could actually be your water heater. Lukewarm water won’t clean your dishes like hot water does. Take a look at your water heater, and adjust the thermostat until your appliances are properly warming up.
2. Clean the Spray Arm
Depending on the type of model you have, the spray arm typically sits at the bottom of the dishwasher. The spray arm sprays water inside your dishwasher so all pots, pans, and plates are thoroughly cleaned. However, the spray arm is prone to collecting food particles. Check it out and clean it if necessary.
3. Check the Latch Switches
If your dishwasher isn’t starting, there’s a chance the latch door switch is broken. The latch door switch is what keeps your dishwasher closed. These switches are designed to secure your dishwasher’s door, preventing water from leaking all over your kitchen floor. Take a peek at your latch switch and see if anything is blocking it. If nothing seems to be blocking the latch switch, consider calling a professional to receive support.
Read More: Can a Damaged Dishwasher Door Cause a Water Leak in Your Kitchen?
4. Inspect the Plumbing Connection Points
Can’t get your dishwasher to drain the remaining amount of last night’s dinner? Your plumbing connection points could be the culprit. To fix your clogged dishwasher we recommend inspecting the hoses connected to your dishwasher, and check for any loose areas. Also, make sure to clean off as many food particles as possible before popping your dishes into the dishwasher.
5. Activate the Garbage Disposal
Most dishwashers are designed to drain into the garbage disposal. If food is still sitting in your garbage disposal, turn it on to get rid of it. This will help prevent your dishwasher from getting backed up as it circulates water and debris to the garbage disposal.
The disposal will crush and dispose of the food, making room for your dishwasher to drain. If your dishwasher still is not draining and you notice moisture damage, you may need to bring in a professional for water mitigation services or support.
6. Check the Dishwasher Filter
If you have checked the plumbing, be sure to check the dishwasher filter. The filter usually sits at the bottom of the dishwasher where it collects food and meal remnants. If it’s clogged, rinse the filter under your sink and place it back into the dishwasher.
7. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar to Clear the Drain
Reached the end of this list with no success? Try using baking soda and vinegar to clean your dishwasher drain. Just pour the baking soda and vinegar mixture into the bottom of your dishwasher, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with hot water then start your dishwasher’s rinse cycle. If everything fails, don’t hesitate to call a restoration specialist or certified plumber.
Common Dishwasher Issues
Dishwasher issues can take many forms. You probably have an issue with your dishwasher if:
Your Water Is Not Draining
Opening up your dishwasher to find a pool of water isn’t something you plan for. If the water in your dishwasher isn’t draining, try running the garbage disposal for a minute. If the water still is not draining and your dishwasher is clogged, contact a skilled plumber because you may have a bigger plumbing issue on your hands that is unrelated to your dishwasher.
Your Dishes and Silverware Are Dirty
A dishwasher full of dirty dishes and silverware defeats the purpose of a dishwasher. If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning your plates and flatware, there is a chance your dishwasher never filled with water in the first place. This could indicate a clog elsewhere. It could also mean your water heater is not heating water as it should.
Read More: 7 Tips for Preventing Water Damage in Your Shower and Bathroom
Your System Is Leaking
Nothing screams “good morning” like stepping into a large puddle of water. If you discover a puddle by your dishwasher, there is a chance your detergent is the problem. Sometimes detergent creates too many suds, leading to leaks. A latch that doesn’t shut all the way could also play a role in your appliance leak. If switching your detergent and checking the latch or hinge doesn’t work, a call to a professional is in order.
How Does a Dishwasher Drain Water?
A dishwasher is one of the greatest inventions to grace modern kitchens since sliced bread. Although you are probably wondering how they drain water. Dishwashers are connected to a drain hose that usually drains in and through your garbage disposal. If your dishwasher drain is clogged or backed up, the water will not drain the way it’s supposed to. Ignoring a dishwasher problem can cause major water damage.
Water Damage Mitigation and Restoration Services in Lakeway, TX
Dishwasher leaks may not seem like a huge deal unless you’re hosting a dinner party but leaks can lead to some pretty serious consequences. If your dishwasher is clogged and you notice water damage near your cabinets or flooring, contact our team of technicians at (877) 589-7504 to receive emergency support.
Our team of technicians offer extensive water restoration services in Lakeway, TX and have the training necessary to help you respond to a malfunctioning dishwasher. Our emergency crew provides 24 hour emergency water removal solutions to handle those unexpected disasters in your home. When disaster strikes, make Dry Force your shoulder to lean on.
