Dishwasher dispenser not working
Common reasons your dishwasher dispenser not working
The most common reasons your dishwasher dispenser is not working 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
If the detergent dispenser isn't working, it might be due to an internal issue that's stopping it from opening. Inside the detergent dispenser, there's a 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. It's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser if it's not working properly.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the dishwasher detergent dispenser isn't working, it may be due to a faulty electronic control board. The internal logic and relays in the electronic control board are responsible for sending electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser, which opens the lid latch and dispenses the detergent. If the internal logic becomes corrupted or the relays fail, it can prevent the dispenser from working properly. It's a good idea 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 working, it might have a problem inside that's stopping it from opening. There's a switch inside the detergent dispenser that releases the latch, so a spring can snap the lid open during the cycle. If the spring is broken, the switch doesn't work properly, or the latch is defective, the dispenser won't work. When the detergent dispenser isn't working, it's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace it.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher dispenser not working issue
Fixing a dispenser not working problem
Fixing most issues with the dispenser not working typically requires replacing either the detergent dispenser or the water valve. However, since there are many 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 recommends these steps for fixing a dispenser that is not working
If the dishwasher dispenser isn't working, 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 experience diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.
What to watch for with a dishwasher dispenser not working diagnosis
Figuring out issues with modern appliances without the right knowledge and training can be hard. If you don't use the right diagnostic techniques, trying to fix your dishwasher problem might mean just guessing and swapping out parts. Appliances, especially in the last decade, have gotten very advanced, with lots of electronic parts that are tricky to test. Doing repairs yourself on the latest appliance models is getting much harder.
A dispenser that won’t open wastes detergent and leaves plates half-washed. Damaged springs or a faulty actuator often need attention. Rather than re-rinsing everything, rely on dishwasher repair near me.
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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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Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
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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 burning smell
- Dishwasher leaking from bottom
- Dishwasher noisy
- Dishwasher not draining
- Dishwasher no heat
- Dishwasher detergent not dispensing
- 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