Why is My Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly

Below are the most common causes for your dishwasher not to be cleaning properly:

Poor Loading

Without doubt, the most common cause of a dishwasher not cleaning plates and crockery properly is because it's been badly loaded into the machine. Good advice when loading the dishwasher is to make sure you leave a space between dishes, so the water can reach and clean all the surfaces.  Also, before closing the door spin both of the spray arms by hand to make sure that they can spin freely without catching on anything.

Too Much/Too Little Detergent

Detergent and wash action are designed to break down food particles that are on the cutlery and crockery during the dishwasher cycle. So if you use too little detergent, your load won't be cleaned properly. But on the other hand, if you use too much then it can fail to dissolve and leave your dishes with a white residue on them.

Empty Rinse Aid Reservoir

The rinse aid compartment of your dishwasher needs to be topped up regularly to eliminate the risk of getting water marks on your cutlery and glasses.

It Needs Salt

Dishwashers need salt to activate the water softener in the machine. Soft water works more effectively and means there won't be as much streaking on the dishes. A basic rule of thumb is to replenish the dishwasher granular salt, roughly once a month.

Spray Arm Blocked

The spray arms below each basket are designed to turn as water is forced through them.  Often small foreign objects enter the spray arm and end up blocking the small holes where the water is supposed to sprayed out.  Any blocked holes will also prevent the spray arm from turning.  Carefully inspect each spray arm and remove anything that shouldn't be in there! 

Dishwasher Is Not Draining Properly

If your dishwasher is failing to drain the water fully then some dirty water is going to remain in the machine during the cycle of washing and rinsing.  There are a number of reason why your dishwasher isn’t draining see below for more information

Rinsing Before You Load

Some people do and some people don't, and it's a bone of contention for a lot of dishwasher users – but the truth is that it's best if you don't rinse dishes and glasses before you load it up. By not rinsing them, you allow the detergent to cling to the dirt particles rather than letting the suds foam up and leave your glassware looking cloudy.

Water Isn’t Hot Enough

If you suspect the water isn't heating properly then it could be the heater element or thermostat that has developed a fault.

Wrong Program

Setting your washing machine to the wrong program can start a cycle that isn't sufficient for the load you've got in it. Change the setting and see if it makes a difference.

Dishwasher Needs Cleaning

It makes sense to clean your dishwasher thoroughly every now and then. The best way to do this is to run the hottest cycle empty with a professional dishwasher and washing machine detergent and limescale remover.

Clogged Drain Pool or Filter

If the dishwasher has a clogged filter or drain pool, a quick and simple clean will usually sort it out. If you do this, but the dishes still come out flecked with food, it might be worthwhile to check and see if your filter is blocked.