Dishwasher detergent not dispensing
Common reasons your dishwasher detergent not dispensing
The most common reasons your dishwasher detergent is not dispensing are a broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a clogged water valve.
46% of the time it's the
Detergent Dispenser31% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board13% of the time it's the
Water Valve10% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dishwasher repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.
Detergent Dispenser Replacement
When your dishwasher isn't dispensing detergent or rinse aid during the cycle, a faulty dispenser assembly might be to blame. Typically, detergent dispensers contain internal switches, latches, and other components to release detergent and rinse aid at the right times during the cycle. Since it can be challenging to determine if a broken dispenser is causing the issue, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Repair Technician inspect your dishwasher. If the detergent dispenser is indeed broken, they will replace it accordingly.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If your dishwasher isn't dispensing detergent, a faulty electronic control board might be the culprit. The internal logic and relays within the electronic control board are responsible for sending electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser, enabling it to open the lid latch and dispense the detergent. If the internal logic becomes corrupted or the relays fail, it can prevent the dispenser from working properly. It's recommended to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert inspect the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it's found to be defective.
Water Valve Replacement
If the detergent dispenser isn't functioning, it may have an internal issue that's stopping it from opening. Inside the detergent dispenser, there's an internal switch that releases the latch, allowing a spring to snap the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, faulty switch, or defective latch can prevent the dispenser from working properly. It's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser if it's not working as expected.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher detergent not dispensing issue
Advice for fixing the detergent not dispensing problem
Fixing most issues with detergent not dispensing typically requires replacing either the detergent dispenser, electronic control board, or water valve. However, since there are numerous potential causes, a thorough diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important for understanding the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services provides these tips for a dishwasher detergent that is not dispensing
If your dishwasher isn't dispensing detergent, there could be several reasons why. To prevent replacing parts that aren't necessary, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to find out what's causing the problem. Our technicians have a lot of experience in figuring out all kinds of issues with dishwashers.
How to handle a dishwasher detergent not dispensing diagnosis
Identifying issues with modern appliances can be challenging without the right knowledge and training. Simply swapping out parts without employing proper diagnostic techniques may result in ineffective repairs. Over the past decade, appliances have become highly advanced, with many models incorporating electronic components that are challenging to assess. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more complex.
If detergent remains clumped in its compartment, broken dispenser latches or solenoids may block release. Your dishes won’t come out fully clean. To fix it fast, book dishwasher service.
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James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A dishwasher sump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, serving as a collection point for water during the wash cycle. It houses the main pump and filter, facilitating the recirculation and drainage of water, essential for the cleaning process.
A dishwasher turbidity sensor is an advanced feature that measures the level of food particles and debris in the water, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the wash cycle length and water usage for optimal cleaning efficiency.
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
An astragal is a molding or strip that covers or seals the gap between the edges of a pair of doors or windows. Its primary functions are to provide a weather seal, improve security, and improve the aesthetic appearance of door and window assemblies.
Common dishwasher symptoms to look out for
- Dishwasher no power
- Dishwasher not heating
- Dishwasher leaking
- Dishwasher not starting
- Dishwasher won't start cycle
- Dishwasher leaks water
- Dishwasher leaking water
- Dishwasher lights flashing and will not start
- Dishwasher dispenser not working
- Dishwasher burning smell
- Dishwasher leaking from bottom
- Dishwasher noisy
- Dishwasher not draining
- Dishwasher no heat
- Dishwasher no water
- Dishwasher not cleaning bottom rack
- Dishwasher not washing
- Dishwasher display not working
- Dishwasher not draining properly
- Dishwasher not drying
- Dishwasher not filling
- Dishwasher not spinning
- Dishwasher not working
- Dishwasher door not closing
- Dishwasher light not working
- Dishwasher won't drain
- Dishwasher won't turn off
- Dishwasher not turning on
- Dishwasher won't wash