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Dishwashers don’t last forever — the average life of this appliance is between 7-12 years. You need to take care of it if you want the appliance to last. Otherwise, you will only encounter dishwasher problems that usually occur when you don’t properly maintain the appliance. This article discusses some of the common dishwasher problems and how to fix them. We have also included some tips on how to improve the efficiency of your dishwasher. Call a plumber in Normal, IL, if you need assistance.
Dishwasher Leaks
One of the common dishwasher problems is leaks. The first thing you need to do is check the door and the door gasket. Try to look for any damage or cracks that prevents it from sealing completely. Clean it first with a disinfectant and if there are cracks, call a plumber in Normal, IL, to help you replace the gasket.
You may also want to check the float switch or the mechanism that detects the level of water in your dishwasher. When it’s not working properly, the machine may overfill and leak onto the floor. Ensure that you clean it and remove anything that might be preventing it from working properly. If you need additional help, call a licensed plumbing service today for assistance.
Doesn’t Start
As a homeowner, it’s important for you to schedule regular maintenance with a plumber so a professional can check your dishwasher and the entire plumbing system. Regular plumbing inspections can prevent this type of problem from happening. You’re likely to encounter this issue when you don’t take care of your appliance. What you can do to resolve this is to check the power source first and see if there’s something wrong with the fuse.
You need to also check the door and see if it can close completely. The dishwasher may not start when it detects that the door isn’t closed fully. When the dishwasher runs but not efficiently, the problem could be its motor. You need to call a licensed plumber for assistance. A reliable professional will have the resources to help you resolve the problem.
Unpleasant Smells
One of the causes of bad smells in your dishwasher is usually wet food that may be stuck inside. Try to check the dishwasher’s screen at the bottom and see if there are food particles in there. When there is a chemical-like smell, that might be plastic melting. It’s good to always remove all food particles in the dishes before loading them in the dishwasher to avoid bad smells. Ensure that you also carefully place them inside the dishwasher to avoid other issues. If you’re still having problems, call a professional for help.
Doesn’t Dry the Dishes
The culprit is usually the heating element of your dishwasher — it might be faulty. You need to call a plumber right away for assistance. When the high-limit thermostat in the dishwasher is not working, it can cause the appliances to shut down before the dishes are fully dried. Check if it’s functioning properly — you may need to call a plumbing company for this if you don’t know how it works. Another culprit could be the rinse aid dispenser; it might not be dispensing properly. When it malfunctions, your dishes won’t get fully dry.
Strange Noises
When the dishwasher starts making odd noises, there might be a problem with its internal components. Seals, wash arm, and bearing rings can cause noises. However, you need to call an experienced plumber if you don’t know how to fix it. Don’t attempt to repair it by yourself with a DIY dishwasher video. If you make a mistake, it may even cost you more in repairs or replacement. The best thing you can do is hire a professional to ensure that it gets resolved.
Doesn’t Drain Properly
When there’s still water inside the dishwasher, somebody might have accidentally turned it off. To correct this, simply run another cycle and make sure it’s complete before turning it off. If you have a garbage disposal, the problem could be the drainage. Make sure that there is no sediment buildup to avoid this problem. Call a professional right away for help. A professional should be able to help you diagnose the problem and give you the best solution.
How to Improve the Efficiency of Your Dishwasher
An efficient dishwasher can help you conserve water and save money. Below are some tips that improve the efficiency of your appliance.
- You can conserve water and energy when it’s on full load. When running it, make sure that you use a natural dishwashing liquid. Other detergents may cause spotting problems in your dishes. Use only those with natural ingredients when possible.
- Do you want to save more energy? Consider getting an energy-efficient dishwasher for your home. Energy Star appliances use about 25 percent less energy, and their appliances are also more durable. That means it will last longer — it’s definitely more cost-effective for you in the long run.
- Turning down the heat can help you save more energy without compromising the efficiency of your dishwasher. You can also consider air-drying your dishes instead of using electric heat. Simply leave them to dry overnight, and they will be reading the next day.
- Don’t forget the regular maintenance of your dishwasher. Clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Schedule regular inspection with a plumber so they can also thoroughly check the dishwasher and rule out any problem.
- If you want to save more energy, try running your dishwasher during off-peak hours. Some utility companies may offer reduced rates for this.
Contact Covenant Plumbing
Do you need a plumber in Normal, IL, to help you fix your dishwasher? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. All of our licensed plumbers are reliable and can get the job done. We can work with any dishwasher make and model — call us at Covenant Plumbing today for an appointment.
