Common Dishwasher Problems in Bethesda Homes (and How to Fix Them)

For busy Bethesda households, a functioning dishwasher is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity. When a dishwasher stops working, it can disrupt your daily routine and lead to mounting kitchen messes. Here, we’ll explore common dishwasher problems Bethesda homeowners face, offer some DIY troubleshooting tips, and explain when it’s time to call a professional.

Problem 1: Dishwasher Not Draining

A dishwasher that leaves standing water at the bottom after a cycle is a common issue.

Why It Happens

This problem is often caused by a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, or a malfunctioning drain pump. Over time, food particles and grease can block these components, preventing proper drainage.

DIY Fix

Start by cleaning the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher. If the issue persists, check the drain hose for any clogs or kinks. Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for guidance.

When to Call a Professional

If the dishwasher still won’t drain, there may be an issue with the drain pump or motor. Contact Bogart Appliance Repair for expert assistance.

Problem 2: Dishes Not Coming Out Clean

It’s frustrating to unload your dishwasher only to find food residue or cloudy glasses.

Why It Happens

This can occur due to clogged spray arms, insufficient water pressure, or using the wrong type of detergent. In Bethesda, hard water can also contribute to this issue.

DIY Fix

Remove and clean the spray arms to ensure water flows freely. Use a dishwasher-safe cleaner to tackle hard water deposits. Make sure you’re using a detergent formulated for your water type.

When to Call a Professional

If your dishes remain dirty despite cleaning the spray arms and using the correct detergent, a professional can diagnose deeper issues, such as a faulty water inlet valve. Schedule a repair with Bogart Appliance Repair.

Problem 3: Dishwasher Leaking

A leaking dishwasher can damage your floors and cabinets if not addressed quickly.

Why It Happens

Leaks are often caused by a damaged door gasket, loose connections in the water supply line, or overloading the dishwasher.

DIY Fix

Inspect the door gasket for wear and tear and replace it if necessary. Ensure the dishwasher isn’t overloaded, as this can cause water to spill out during cycles.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice persistent leaks despite these fixes, it’s time to call the experts. The team at Bogart Appliance Repair can identify and resolve the root cause of the problem.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

To keep your dishwasher running smoothly, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Clean the Filter Regularly: A clean filter prevents clogs and ensures efficient drainage.
• Run Hot Water Before Starting a Cycle: This ensures the dishwasher fills with hot water from the beginning, improving cleaning performance.
• Inspect Spray Arms: Check for clogs in the spray arms every few months to maintain optimal water flow.

For help on maintaining your dishwasher, visit our appliance repair page.

Why Choose Bogart Appliance Repair in Bethesda

At Bogart Appliance Repair, we pride ourselves on providing reliable, professional service to Bethesda residents. Our team of certified technicians specializes in dishwasher repair and maintenance, ensuring your appliance runs like new.

Schedule Your Service Today

If you’re experiencing issues with your dishwasher, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact us today to book an appointment. We’re here to help!