Dishwasher Issues: Common Problems & Quick Fixes

Got a dishwasher that’s acting up? You’re not alone. Most of us have faced that panic when the dishwasher stops working mid-cycle, leaks all over the floor, or just won’t start. The good news? Many dishwasher issues are easy to fix yourself—no plumber or technician needed. Let’s tackle the most common problems and get your dishwasher running smoothly again.

Leaking Dishwashers: What’s Causing the Flood?

Leaking dishwashers are a nightmare, especially if it’s happening under the sink or on the kitchen floor. The most common culprits? A broken door seal (the rubber gasket around the door) or a clogged drain hose. Check the door seal first—it might be torn or full of food scraps. If it’s damaged, replacing the seal is a quick $10-$20 fix. For a clogged drain hose, unplug the dishwasher, pull it out, and check the hose for kinks or blockages. A simple clean-up might save you from a costly repair. Also, check the spray arm—sometimes a loose or blocked arm can cause water to leak out during the cycle.

Dishwasher Won’t Start? Let’s Get It Going

If your dishwasher just sits there when you press start, don’t call the repair guy yet. First, check if it’s actually plugged in (yes, it’s happened to all of us). Then, make sure the door is fully closed and latched—some dishwashers won’t start if the door isn’t secure. If that’s not it, the problem might be with the control panel or a tripped circuit breaker. Reset the breaker (turn it off and back on) and try again. If it still won’t start, it’s time to call a pro. But 90% of the time, it’s just a simple fix you can do in minutes. Another common issue is a faulty timer or a broken start switch, but these are less common and usually require a bit more expertise.

Prevention is key. Run a cycle with vinegar once a month to prevent buildup of limescale and odors. Clean the filter (usually at the bottom of the tub) once a month—just twist it out and rinse under the tap. And avoid putting large food chunks in the dishwasher; they can clog the filter and cause leaks. Also, don’t overload the dishwasher; it’s designed for a certain load size, and overloading can strain the motor and cause leaks.

At Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions, we fix dishwashers fast and affordably. Whether it’s a simple filter clean or a full replacement, our expert technicians are ready to help. We know how important a working dishwasher is for your daily life, so we’ll get it sorted without the stress. Call us today for a quick, reliable repair in Taunton.