Why Is My Dishwasher Not Cleaning Well?

Dishwashers are one of the most convenient kitchen appliances—until they stop performing well. If you’ve noticed your dishes coming out with food residue, cloudy spots, or greasy film, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Toronto and across Canada struggle with dishwashers that just don’t clean as they should. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your dishwasher may not be cleaning effectively and what you can do to restore its performance.

1. Clogged or Dirty Spray Arms

Spray arms are responsible for distributing water evenly throughout your dishwasher. Over time, these arms can become clogged with mineral deposits, food particles, or debris. When that happens, water can’t spray out with enough force to clean your dishes.

Solution:

• Remove the spray arms and rinse them thoroughly.

• Use a toothpick or a small brush to clear out any blocked holes.

• Soak them in white vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup if necessary.

2. Overloading the Dishwasher

It might be tempting to fit as many dishes as possible into a single cycle to save time, water, and energy. But overloading often leads to poor water circulation, preventing the detergent from reaching every dish.

Solution:

• Avoid stacking dishes too closely together.

• Follow the manufacturer’s loading recommendations.

• Ensure that nothing is blocking the spray arms from rotating.

3. Using the Wrong Detergent or Too Much Detergent

Not all detergents are created equal. Low-quality detergent or using too much of it can lead to residue buildup on your dishes and inside your appliance. Similarly, using detergent that’s too old or stored improperly can reduce cleaning performance.

Solution:

• Choose a high-quality detergent compatible with your water hardness.

• Use the recommended amount.

• Store detergent in a cool, dry place and replace it if it’s expired.

4. Low Water Temperature

Hot water is essential for dissolving grease and activating detergent. If your dishwasher’s water isn’t hot enough, it won’t clean effectively.

Solution:

• Run hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher.

• Check your water heater temperature (aim for at least 120°F or 49°C).

• Consider upgrading to a dishwasher with built-in water heating features.

5. Dirty Filters

Your dishwasher has a filter system that catches food particles and debris. Over time, these filters can become clogged, reducing water flow and leaving dishes dirty.

Solution:

• Remove and clean the filter regularly, ideally once a month.

• Rinse it under hot water and use a brush to remove stuck-on debris.

• Check your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.

6. Blocked or Clogged Drain

A backed-up drain can recirculate dirty water, leaving your dishes grimy. If you notice water pooling at the bottom of your dishwasher, a clogged drain could be the culprit.

Solution:

• Check for visible blockages near the drain or in the hose.

• Clean out debris and run a dishwasher cleaning cycle.

• If the problem persists, contact a professional repair technician.

7. Hard Water Issues

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can reduce the effectiveness of your detergent and leave spots or film on your dishes.

Solution:

• Use a rinse aid to help reduce spotting and film.

• Consider installing a water softener if your area has particularly hard water.

• Regularly descale your dishwasher with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner.

8. Malfunctioning Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve controls how much water enters the dishwasher. If it’s malfunctioning, your dishwasher might not be getting enough water to clean properly.

Solution:

• Listen for a humming noise at the start of the cycle—this could indicate a faulty valve.

• Check for any kinks or damage in the water supply line.

• If needed, contact a certified appliance repair expert to replace the valve.

9. Worn-Out Circulation Pump

The circulation pump is what pushes water through the spray arms. If it’s weak or failing, you won’t get the pressure needed for a thorough clean.

Solution:

• Look for signs such as strange noises or water not reaching the top rack.

• This issue typically requires professional repair or replacement.

10. Aging Dishwasher

If your dishwasher is more than 10 years old, performance issues may simply be due to age and wear. Components naturally degrade over time, leading to poor cleaning results.

Solution:

• Evaluate whether repairs are worth the cost.

• Consider upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model with better cleaning technology.

When to Call a Professional

While many dishwasher problems can be solved with regular maintenance and DIY fixes, there are times when professional help is necessary. At Express Repair, our trained technicians serve Toronto and the surrounding areas with fast, reliable appliance repair services. Whether it’s a faulty pump, electronic control issue, or complex water inlet valve problem, we’re ready to help get your dishwasher running like new.

Final Thoughts

A dishwasher that isn’t cleaning properly can be frustrating—but the good news is that most issues are fixable. By staying on top of routine maintenance and knowing the common causes, you can save time, money, and extend the life of your appliance. For persistent or complex problems, trust the experts at Express Repair for fast and effective service.

Need Dishwasher Repair in Toronto?
Visit https://expressrepair.ca/contact/ or call us today for expert diagnosis and same-day appliance service.