Machine Troubleshooting

If you're having specific problems with your dishwashing machine, choose from the list of problems below for some advice.

My dishwasher won't run.

The fuse may be blown or the circuit breaker tripped. You need to replace the fuse or reset your circuit breaker. Other appliances should be removed from the circuit.

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My dishwasher is making a funny noise.

Some noises are perfectly normal, for example soft food disposal shredding action, your drain valve opening to pump out water, the timer control as the cycle progresses or just the motor stopping during the drying period. Often it's just a wash item that has come loose or dropped into the rack so make sure everything is secure.

Always best to contact a reputable engineer if you're in any doubt.

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My motor is humming.

This could be because your dishwasher hasn't been used on a regular basis. If you don't use your dishwasher often, then set it to fill and pump out once a week. This keeps the seal moist and the pipes clear.

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There is water in the bottom of my machine.

Before you get into a panic, this is normal. A little bit of clean water around the outlet in the bottom helps to keep the water seal lubricated.

Always best to contact a reputable engineer if you're in any doubt.

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There is no water pumping out of my machine.

Your drain may be blocked. If your kitchen sink isn't draining all that well either you may have to call a plumber.

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There are suds in the bottom of my machine.

If dishes are pre-washed using a hand dishwashing liquid, it is important to rinse them thoroughly before loading them onto the dishwasher. Any liquid soap remaining on dishes can result in over sudsing.

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My dishes don't come out dry.

Check your rinse agent dispenser, it may be empty.

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My dishes and cutlery just won't clean.

There could be insufficient water fill or pressure. Run your dishwasher when other household demands for water are low (i.e., laundry or bathing). This may be due to improper loading of dishes. Check that your large dishware doesn't block the detergent dispenser or water spray. Check your dishwasher manual for proper loading techniques. You may have used too little detergents. Use Finish tabs for even dosing.

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There is a yellow / brown film on my tub.

Use Finish Dishwasher Cleaner following the instructions on the pack. Iron deposits in the water may lead to an overall yellow or brown film. You'll need a special filter in the water supply line to prevent this. Please contact a water softener company.

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There is a white film on the interior surface of my dishwasher.

Hard water minerals are your culprit. Clean the surface by sponging dishwasher detergent on the interior.

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My detergent dispenser just won't close.

Either you have overfilled the cup with detergent or the mechanism is clogged up with leftover detergent.

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My detergent dispenser lid won't lock closed.

Check to see that your dial is in the "off" position.

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There is some detergent left in my detergent dispenser after washing.

  • The dispenser may not be functioning properly. If the cover does not close tightly or open automatically during the wash cycle, you may need to call your local dishwasher service centre for assistance.
  • Sometimes the dispenser may be damp or water may get into the dispenser before the it opens. This can cause the detergent to start dissolving before the dispenser opens and the to detergent “stick” there.
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My dishwasher is giving off steam.

This is normal so don't worry. Steam comes through the vent by the door latch during the drying cycle, and when water is being pumped out. Always best to contact a reputable engineer if you're in any doubt.

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My dishwasher won't start.

  • Check that the plug is in the socket.
  • There may be a fault with the fuse in the main electricity supply.
  • Check that your dishwasher door is closed properly.
  • You may just need to turn your water tap on.
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The lower spray arm has difficulty rotating.

Your spray arm may be blocked by little bits of leftover food. Check the dishwasher manufactuer manual for detail of how to remove the arm to clean. Never proceed unless you're sure – it's often better to ask a professional service engineer to attend.

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