How Does a Recirculation Pump Work?

What is a Recirculation Pump?

The recirculation pump in a dishwasher is a device responsible for continuously moving water through the appliance, helping to clean dishes, glasses, utensils, and cookware by ensuring consistent, high-pressure water flow. Unlike the drain pump (which removes dirty water from the dishwasher), the recirculation pump recycles water throughout the wash and rinse cycles, enhancing efficiency and performance.

This pump is the powerhouse behind the cleaning action in your dishwasher, making sure every spray arm works optimally.

How Does the Recirculation Pump Work?

The recirculation pump works by taking in water from the dishwasher's sump (a reservoir where water collects at the base of the unit). During a wash cycle, here’s what happens:

• Water Collection: The dishwasher fills with water, which pools in the sump.
• Pump Activation: The recirculation pump pulls water from the sump and pushes it through the spray arms.
• Pressurized Spray: As the pump forces water through the spray arms, the nozzles in the arms spin and release high-pressure streams that remove food particles from dishes.
• Continuous Flow: The pump ensures a continuous, powerful flow of water until the cycle completes.
• Filtration: A filter traps food particles and debris, keeping the water clean as it recirculates.

During the rinse cycle, the recirculation pump plays a similar role but it pulls in fresh water to remove soap residue.

Benefits of a Recirculation Pump

A well-functioning recirculation pump offers several advantages:

• Efficient Cleaning: High-pressure water spray created by a powerful recirculation pump thoroughly cleans dishes, leaving no food residue behind.
• Water Conservation: By efficiently recirculating the same water during the cycle, dishwashers conserve water compared to hand washing.
• Energy Savings: With less water to heat, energy consumption is reduced, making the dishwasher more eco-friendly.
• Quiet Operation: Modern pumps are designed to operate quietly, improving the overall experience.

Signs of a Faulty Recirculation Pump

If you notice any of the following issues, your dishwasher's recirculation pump may need attention.

Dishes Come Out Dirty

A malfunctioning pump might not provide enough water pressure to clean dishes effectively. When the recirculation pump isn’t forcing water through the spray arms properly, you’ll need to replace the pump.

Here’s a DIY video that shows how to replace the recirculation pump in common dishwashers:

Replacing the recirculation pump in a dishwasher is an advanced repair and involves correctly sealing openings at the bottom of the dishwasher that can leak water if the repair isn’t completed properly. If you’re not completely confident that you can replace the recirculation pump on your own, schedule dishwasher repair and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to complete the repair.

Unusual Noises

Grinding or rattling noises could indicate a damaged pump or debris trapped inside.

Some pumps have blades that chop up food debris in recirculation water. When broken glass or debris gets trapped in those blades, the dishwasher will make loud grinding noises.

The pump will also make grinding and/or rattling noises when debris gets trapped in the impeller housing. The spinning impeller will hit the debris and can get damaged if the problem isn’t addressed immediately.

Schedule dishwasher repair service when the pump makes loud grinding or rattling noises to help prevent damage to the recirculation pump.

Standing Water

If water isn't circulating correctly, it can pool at the bottom of your dishwasher. Food debris can block filters and prevent the water from circulating and draining properly.

When you see standing water in your dishwasher, have a service technician examine the appliance and fix the problem.

Dishwasher Leaking

When your dishwasher leaks, the problem may be caused by a cracked or damaged recirculation pump. A leak can also be caused by a damaged door seal, a cracked or clogged spray arm or leaking components or seals under the dishwasher.

Follow the DIY troubleshooting tips shown in this helpful video to determine whether the leak is caused by the recirculation pump or another problem:

If you’re unable to find and fix a leak in your dishwasher, schedule professional repair service to fix the problem.

How to Maintain Your Recirculation Pump

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your recirculation pump:

• Regularly Clean the Dishwasher Filters: A clogged filter can strain the pump, so keep it clean to ensure optimal performance.
• Inspect Spray Arms: Clear any blockages to prevent back pressure on the pump.
• Run Dishwasher Cleaner Cycles: Dishwasher cleaners can remove buildup in the pump and other components.
• Use Rinse Aid: Using rinse aid helps remove debris from dishes in the rinse cycle and helps keep deposits from building up in the recirculation pump.
• Schedule Professional Maintenance: Having your dishwasher professionally inspected, cleaned and maintained yearly will help keep your recirculation pump in top shape and lasting longer. Schedule dishwasher maintenance now.

If you suspect your pump needs professional attention, contacting a dishwasher repair expert can help. At Sears Home Services, our skilled technicians can diagnose and repair any dishwasher issues, from pump malfunctions to routine maintenance, to ensure your appliance runs smoothly.

With the recirculation pump playing such a critical role in your dishwasher's cleaning performance, understanding its function and maintaining it regularly is key to enjoying spotless dishes every time.

If you’re experiencing issues with your dishwasher or want to keep it running efficiently, Sears Home Services is here to help!