Whirlpool dishwasher won't wash

Why is my Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes Properly?

When your Whrilpool dishwasher isn’t getting your dishes clean, the problem could be as simple as how you load the dishwasher, water that's not hot enough or a clogged filter. An inadequate water fill level, clogged or damaged spray arms and a problem with the circulation pump can also keep your dishes from getting clean.

This comprehensive troubleshooting video covers all of these topics and more:

How to load the dishwasher for proper cleaning

Loading the dishes correctly helps the dishwasher clean them properly.

• Angle heavily soiled dish surfaces downward and leave enough room between the dishes to allow water to reach all sides.
• Make sure the dirtiest part of the dish faces down so it gets direct spray from the spray arms.
• Place dishes with concave surfaces—like the bottoms of coffee mugs—at an angle on the dishrack to allow water to drain easier and improve drying.
• Make sure that spray arms spin freely after loading the dishwasher and don’t block the detergent dispenser lid.

Find more tips for loading your dishwasher properly and efficiently in this helpful video:

Select the correct cycle

After loading the dishes, select the correct cycle for the type of dishes that you're washing. A quick or normal wash cycle cleans most dishes well, but that cycle won't clean dirty pots and pans.

Choose a heavy wash or a pots and pans cycle to clean really dirty cookware.

If your dishwasher has a high-temperature setting, choose it for better cleaning. The dishwasher will heat the water to higher temperatures, and do a better job of melting grease off dishes. It will also dissolve detergent better, improving cleaning performance.

Refer to your owner's manual for information about the cycles and options on your dishwasher.

Check the filters for clogs

Clogged dishwasher filters interfere with water flow, which can cause poor cleaning performance.

Remove and inspect your dishwasher filters monthly. You can clean the filters by holding them under running tap water.

Remove dirt or hard water deposits using a soft bristle brush. Scrub the filters whenever you see soil or residue building up on the screens or if dishes feel gritty and you see food particles after the cycle finishes.

Check the spray arms for cracks and clogs

Dishes won't get clean if the dishwasher can’t spray them thoroughly with water.

First, check the spray arms for cracks or damage. A cracked spray arm won't rotate and spray correctly. Replace the spray arm if it’s damaged.

If the spray arm isn’t cracked, check the spray arms for clogged openings. Hard water deposits and food debris can clog these holes.

Clear the spray holes with toothpicks or a bamboo skewer.

For severe clogs, remove the spray arms following the instructions in the owner’s manual and clean them in the sink. Use a toothbrush and a bamboo skewer to remove clogs, and soak them in white vinegar to help remove hard water deposits.

Rinse the spray arms thoroughly and reinstall them.

If hard water deposits frequently block your spray arm holes, we recommend cleaning your dishwasher once a month with Dishwasher Magic or Affresh dishwasher cleaner.

Check the water fill level

If your spray arms are okay, the next thing to check is the water level.

Start a cycle with the dishwasher empty and allow the dishwasher to fill with water–which should take about 2 minutes. When you hear the water stop filling or the pump start running, you know the dishwasher is finished filling.

Open the dishwasher door slightly to stop the cycle. When the cycle stops, open the door fully and check the water level in the tub.

The water level should be close to the bottom of the mushroom-shaped float. If your dishwasher isn’t filling, or the water level is far below the float, you’ve likely found the problem.

Check out this video to see troubleshooting tips for a fill problem in your dishwasher.

Check the water temperature

If your water level is all right, check your water temperature. Your water must be at least 120 degrees to clean efficiently, even if you use the high-temperature cycle.

To check the water temperature, run the hot water from your kitchen sink faucet for 1 minute and then fill a glass with hot water. Measure the water temperature in the glass using a cooking thermometer.

If the temperature is less than 120 degrees, carefully increase the temperature setting on your water heater. Make small, incremental increases and don't set your water heater temperature above 120 degrees. That should protect you from burns in the bath or shower.

Continue following the troubleshooting tips in the video to find the cause of the cleaning problem. If you don’t find the solution to the cleaning problem on your own, schedule dishwasher repair service and we’ll have a Sears Home Services technician visit your home and address the problem.

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dishwasher won't wash issue

How is the won't wash problem fixed?

Correcting most won't wash problems usually involves replacing the pump and motor assembly, electronic control board or spray arm. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher that won't wash

When the dishwasher won't wash it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling a Whirlpool dishwasher repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.

What to look out for with a dishwasher won't wash diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Washing Top Rack

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not washing the top rack, there are a few specific issues to consider. Here are some common reasons and solutions:

1. Clogged Spray Arms: The spray arms responsible for cleaning the top rack can become clogged with food particles or mineral deposits. When this happens, the water flow is restricted, and dishes on the top rack may not get clean. To address this issue, remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly. Ensure all the holes are clear to allow proper water flow.

2. Faulty Water Inlet Valve: The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher. If it’s malfunctioning, it may not supply enough water to reach the top rack. Replacing the faulty water inlet valve can restore proper water flow and ensure the top rack is cleaned effectively.

3. Malfunctioning Upper Wash Impeller: The upper wash impeller helps distribute water to the top rack. If it’s damaged or not working correctly, the top rack won’t receive sufficient water for cleaning. Inspect the impeller and replace it if necessary to ensure proper water distribution.

4. Blocked Filters: Clogged filters can restrict water flow and pressure, impacting the dishwasher’s ability to clean the top rack. Regularly check and clean the filters to maintain optimal performance.

5. Incorrect Loading: Overloading the dishwasher or placing large items on the bottom rack can block the spray arms and prevent water from reaching the top rack. Ensure dishes are loaded correctly, allowing adequate space for water to circulate.

Addressing these common issues can resolve the problem of your Whirlpool dishwasher not washing the top rack. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, consider scheduling a professional repair service to diagnose and fix the problem.

Using these tips, you can ensure your Whirlpool dishwasher performs effectively, keeping all your dishes, including those on the top rack, clean and spotless.
A Whirlpool dishwasher that won’t shift into a real wash cycle might have a failing wash motor or clogged sprayer. Dishes remain partially dirty, negating the appliance’s purpose. Skip extra scrubbing—rely on a dishwasher repair near me. Once fixed, your Whirlpool can blast away food residue with each run.