Repairs: DIY Dishwasher

After working, cooking, and taking care of the rest of the home, having a dishwasher is a great advantage for many homeowners. However, when the dishwasher breaks down it can be frustrating, not to mention inconvenient. Get your kitchen back on the clean track with these easy DIY repair tips for dishwashers.

Before you attempt to make any kind of repairs to your dishwasher, remember that you should put safety first. Turn off the circuit breaker, and make sure that you have read the manufacturer's manual so that you know what not to do.

Trouble-shooting dishwasher problems

Here are some of the most common dishwasher problems and how to fix them.

1. A leak. If you have a serious leak from your dishwasher, you should call a professional. However, if you just notice a small pool of water near the unit, it is worth trying to fix it yourself before shelling out money for a repair bill. Having a leak is usually a quick fix because it is due to an unlevel dishwasher. Expose the feet by removing the access panel cover. You can usually use pliers to adjust them so that the entire unit is level and able to hold water without spilling it.

2. Dishes with a water film. Sometimes the water that your dishwasher uses isn't hot enough, which can leave dishes looking less than clean. If you notice a cloudy film on your dishes even after they have been through a cycle in the washer, try turning your water heater temperature up to at least 130 degree Fahrenheit or 54 degrees Celsius.

3. An unpleasant odor. Because it processes many food particles and works in many complex parts, your dishwasher may develop an unpleasant odor. This is usually the result of food that has become trapped inside over time. Any odor found should first be checked by emptying the food trap. If this doesn't work, you could also try cleaning your dishwasher with inexpensive products that are usually found around the house, such as baking soda or vinegar. All you need to do is run the unit empty for a cycle with this in the detergent dispenser.

4. A blocked spray arm. Sometimes, the holes in the spray arms of your dishwasher can become clogged, especially if you have hard water. This is a relatively simple problem to solve, however. Place the spray arm in a vinegar solution and allow it to sit. Check periodically to determine when it's fully cleaned.

5. A rusty dishwasher. Citric acid is another household remedy that can be used to solve a dishwasher issue. If your dishwasher has become rusty over time, run a cycle on empty with either natural lemon juice or citrus flavoured powdered drink mix.

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