The dishwasher is a marvel of modern convenience. It saves you effort and time. However, like any home appliance, it can encounter problems. You can often fix simple issues with a bit of DIY troubleshooting. However, sometimes it is a better idea to call in a professional. Knowing when to seek professional help can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Common Dishwasher Problems

• The dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly. Is your dishwasher leaving dirty dishes? It could be due to a malfunctioning water inlet valve, a clogged spray arm, or a damaged pump motor. You can attempt to clean the spray arm or check the inlet valve for debris. However, if the problem continues, call a professional.
• The dishwasher is leaking. A dishwasher leak can involve a damaged door gasket, a broken hose connection, or even a cracked tub. While you can try tightening or replacing the hose or gasket, a technician will accurately diagnose and repair the problem and prevent water damage to your kitchen.
• The dishwasher isn’t draining. A dishwasher not draining can be because of a faulty drain pump or clogged drain hose. You can examine the drain hose for a clog and check if it’s kinked. Does the problem persist? Seek professional help to avoid further damaging the dishwasher.
• The dishwasher isn’t filling with water. Does your dishwater fail to fill with water? It could be due to a clog in the water inlet valve. It can also be a faulty float switch or a malfunctioning water supply line. You can check for clogs and check that the water supply is on. However, if it isn’t a simple fix, get a technician to troubleshoot the issue safely and effectively.
• The dishwasher is making strange noises. Weird noises such as grinding, banging, or humming could show a problem with the pump motor, bearings, or spray arm. You can inspect these components for debris or damage, but a professional should examine and repair the issue without risking further damage to the dishwasher.

When to Call a Professional

You can resolve some dishwasher issues with basic troubleshooting. However, there are many vital scenarios where consulting a professional is the best choice:

• Complex repairs: Some dishwasher repairs need more expertise and specialized tools. An appliance technician has the skills and experience to diagnose and fix complex problems.
• Safety concerns: Are you unsure about the cause of the problem? Does the repair involve electrical components? You must call a professional to avoid the risk of electric shock or injury.
• Warranty coverage: Trying to repair a dishwasher yourself can void its warranty. Check with an experienced appliance technician to ensure the warranty covers the repairs.
• Time and convenience: Calling a professional saves you time and effort. An appliance technician can quickly diagnose the issue and have your dishwasher running in no time.

While fixing dishwasher problems yourself is tempting, knowing when to call a professional can save you money, time, and frustration. Sierra Appliance Services offers expert dishwasher repair services in the Porterville, CA area, so call for a consultation today.