Dishwasher Leaving Dishes Dirty? 5 Things to Check First

Before you call

1. Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub

   Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter that traps food debris. A clogged one is the single most common cause of poor cleaning.
2. Check the spray arms for clogged holes

   Food particles and hard-water buildup can block the small holes the spray passes through.
3. Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner

   This clears grease and hard-water buildup in the lines a normal wash cycle doesn't reach.
4. Check the water temperature

   Run the hot tap at the nearest sink before starting a cycle. Dishwashers clean poorly with lukewarm incoming water.
5. Don't overload the racks

   Dishes blocking the spray arm's rotation is an easy, free fix.

When it's time to call a technician

If the filter and spray arms are clean and dishes are still coming out dirty, or the unit won't drain or fill at all, the wash pump or a water valve likely needs a technician.