DISHES NOT COMING CLEAN?
If the dishes are not coming clean, there could be a clog somewhere, a broken spray arm, or a problem with water filling the dishwasher. Or it may simply be packed a bit too full (That’s a quick and easy fix). “Dishwasher ailment research” began in earnest when my dishwasher started having ” issues”: The soap dispenser didn’t empty adequately and the plates weren’t coming clean… Read on for typical dishwasher ‘ailments’ and easy ‘solutions’:
The float that controls the water lever could be stuck. Take a peak underneath the little float mechanism at the bottom… on the dishwasher floor, to see if a utensil might be lodged there.
The holes in the spray arms could be clogged with food. Those holes are easy to clean, using a pin or a toothpick. (If the arm is cracked, order a new one, and just attach it using the existing screws. There should be no more than a couple of little screws, holding it in place.)
The water fill valve could be clogged (most often due to calcium or iron deposit accumulation). If that’s the case it’s not a self-fix, and you’ll need a repair person.
DISHWASHER WON’T DRAIN?
If the garbage disposal plug was not removed before the disposal was hooked up to the drain hose (which actually is a rather common installation oversight) the dishwasher won’t drain. Under the sink you’ll find a small hose that goes from the dishwasher to the disposal. Remove that hose. Push the plug out from the nosle using a screwdriver … and just replace the hose.
If food is stuck in the drain pump motor, you’ll need a service technician to unclog it.
If the repair cost is running more than what you feel might be appropriate, due to the age of the appliance (or wear and tear), a new dishwasher might be a better option. The manufacturer or installer of the new appliance can often remove and dispose of the old appliance. In the Miami area, many neighborhoods/communities allow for pick up of bulky waste, and will haul away items as long as the resident phones in or emails for a pick up. For more information on bulky waste pick ups and haul-away’s in Miami Dade, click here. And 1800gotjunk.com will remove appliances for a fee.
Considering buying or selling your house? Please give me a call at 305 793-1365 or 305 632-0164 or send me a note.
