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What Are Common Dishwasher Plumbing Issues?

Posted on June 13, 2020 by

Does Your Dishwasher Need Professional Services?

The dishwasher is leaking water onto the floor again. You open it up, and it starts beeping an error message at you. Dishwashers are complicated pieces of equipment, but with the right plumbing services on your side, you can make quick work of those concerns.

Thankfully plumbing professionals can help when they go haywire. It's important to maintain your dishwasher and avoid common problems so you can stop trouble before you need to call a plumber. Prevent complications by knowing the most common dishwasher malfunctions, and the regular maintenance you can provide to avoid them.

Common Dishwasher Problems

Dishwashers can have an array of problems, depending on the brand, model, and age of the machine. However, there are some common problems that most dishwashers experience and users will have to deal with at one point or another.

dishwasher problemsThe most common problems are:
  • Dishwasher Doesn't Drain
  • Spots on Glass After Washing
  • Food Left on Dishes
  • Dishwasher Leaks
  • Dishes Don't Dry
  • Dishwasher Doesn't Start

Making note of the problems can help you and your plumber identify the root cause of your issue so you can get the dishwasher working again.

Unique Dishwasher Plumbing Features

Dishwashers are the junction of several utilities and appliances. Dishwashers require the input of hot water from your water tank. Electricity powers the motors and heating elements. Drain water is pumped into your garbage disposal or kitchen sink drain. As a result of this complexity, problems can occur at any point in the system.

dishwasher plumbing

Most dishwasher manufacturers have specifications for the minimum hot water temperature that the unit is designed for. Consulting the user’s manual can tell you how hot to set the thermostat of your water tank. Additionally, running your kitchen sink for a few moments before you start a load in the dishwasher will bring fresh hot water to it so that it has properly heated water ready for use.

Clogged sink drains can back up when the dishwasher pumps out wastewater. If you find your drain making a gurgling noise as it pumps out water, you need your drain cleaned. Furthermore, periodically running your garbage disposal can prevent debris from clogging the drain.

Preventing Dishwasher Plumbing Issues

A dishwasher is an investment. Protect your investment by preventing plumbing issues and also by cleaning the dishwasher! There are some appliance maintenance practices that you can implement to ensure the efficiency and longevity of your dishwasher.

  • preventingIronically, the best way to keep your dishwasher running is to run it. Running the dishwasher (daily or every other day) helps to keep it in prime working condition. Regular use helps to keep food and gunk from building up inside. Run the washer at a minimum of 120°F to get the best use of your washer.
  • Load dishes properly by making sure dishes don't have big chunks of food on them when you load. Food residue can clog your dishwasher so try to keep it out or clean debris-catching screens regularly. As you load, keep in mind not to overfill the dishwasher. A crowded dishwasher won't clean effectively.
  • Clean your dishwasher! It seems redundant to clean an appliance that's primary function is to clean, but dishwashers need to be cleaned and maintained like any other appliance. Running white vinegar through a cycle can help remove any build-up of minerals from hard water.
  • Install a water softener. Water softeners remove minerals from your water that interfere with cleaning and drying agents in your dish soap. Softeners can help brighten your dishes and prevent mineral build-up in your dishwasher.

These practices will help you keep your dishwasher running smoothly for years to come.

About Rooter MD Plumbing LLC

If you run into any plumbing issues with your dishwasher, Rooter MD Plumbing LLC has the experience and expertise to address your plumbing needs. Homeowners in Livonia, MI have relied on their services since 1935. Equipped with knowledge, expertise, and professionalism, they can tackle any of your grueling plumbing problems.

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