Solving Common
Dishwashing Problems
Following is a convenient checklist for handling minor performance problems. Go over this
list before calling for service. If you are unable to solve your dishwasher’s problem, turn to the
“Troubleshooting” section for service information.
Problem Cause Solution
Food soil left
on dishes
Improper loading
Water temperature
too low
Follow loading instructions.
If needed, turn home water heater up to ensure
water entering dishwasher is 120°F (49°C)
minimum. See the “Saving Energy” section.
Use of incorrect, too
little, or ineffective
detergent
Use recommended dishwasher detergents
only. See the “Using the Dispensers” section.
Never use less than 1 tablespoon per load.
Detergent must be fresh to be effective.
Always store detergent tightly closed in a
cool, dry place.
Detergent cakes in
dispenser
Use fresh detergent only. Do not allow deter
gent to sit for several hours in a wet dispenser.
Check dispenser for caked detergent. Clean
dispenser when caked detergent is present.
Insufficient fill due to
low water pressure
Home water pressure should be 20 to 120
pounds per square inch (psi) (138 to 828 kPa)
for proper dishwasher fill. A booster pump on
the water supply may be necessary if pressure
is too low.
Slowdown of wash
arm due to high suds
Never use soap or laundry detergents. Use
recommended dishwasher detergents only.
Spotting
and filming
Hard water or high
mineral content in
water
Use rinse agent to help prevent spotting
and filming. See the “Using the Dispensers”
section. To remove hard water film, see
“Removing spots and film” at the end of this
section.
Water temperature
too low
If needed, turn home water heater up to ensure
water entering dishwasher is 120°F (49°C)
minimum.
Use of incorrect
detergents
Use recommended dishwasher
detergents only.
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