If you’ve searched “why would dishwasher not dry dishes?”, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that many people face, and it can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, there are several straightforward steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem. This guide will walk you through them.
Things To Troubleshoot
Here are the issues to look for in your dishwasher…
Check the Heating Element
Unplug for Safety
First things first: always put safety at the forefront. Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical socket to ensure you’re not working with an electrified appliance.
Locate the Heating Element
Next, open the dishwasher door and look at the bottom of the appliance. You’ll find the heating element there. It usually resembles a thick wire or coil that runs around the perimeter at the base.
Visual Inspection
Carefully inspect the heating element for any visible damages. You’re specifically looking for signs of burning, cracking, or any visible deformities.
Testing with a Multimeter
If you have a multimeter, you can take your inspection a step further. Set your multimeter to test for continuity and then touch the probes to the element’s terminals.
A faulty heating element will show no continuity on the meter. If you’re unsure how to do this, the user manual for your dishwasher should provide specific guidelines. If not, it might be safer to consult a professional technician.
Replace if Necessary
Should the heating element show any signs of damage or lack continuity, it will need to be replaced. Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for specific replacement procedures. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, hiring a professional is advisable.
Inspect the Door Seal
Locate the Door Seal
Open the dishwasher door completely. You will find a rubber or silicone seal running along the edges of the door. This is what keeps water and hot air inside the appliance when it’s in use.
Physical Examination
Run your fingers along the seal, pressing gently to feel for any tears, cracks, or inconsistencies. Be meticulous and check the entire perimeter.
Look for Loose Areas
Pay close attention to areas where the seal may appear loose or is not snugly fitting into its designated groove. A loose seal can compromise the dishwasher’s efficiency.
Replace if Damaged
If you find that the door seal is damaged in any way, it’s important to replace it to ensure your dishwasher runs effectively. Replacement door seals can generally be purchased from the same manufacturer as your dishwasher or a verified third-party vendor.
Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for replacing the door seal, which will usually involve removing the old seal and pressing the new one into its designated groove.
Use or Refill Rinse Aid
Locate the Rinse Aid Dispenser
Open your dishwasher and look for the rinse aid dispenser. It’s typically situated next to the detergent dispenser, often marked with a “sun” icon or labeled explicitly as “Rinse Aid”.
Refill if Empty
If the dispenser appears to be empty, it’s time to refill. Unscrew or pop open the cap and carefully pour rinse aid into the designated compartment. Use a funnel if necessary to avoid spills.
Adjust Settings
Your dishwasher will likely have settings that control how much rinse aid is used during each cycle. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual to adjust these settings according to their recommendations. Too much or too little rinse aid can affect the drying process, so it’s crucial to get it right.
Examine the Fan Motor
Locate the Fan Motor
The fan motor is generally located at the back of the dishwasher. Depending on your model, you may need to remove a panel to access it.
Check for Obstructions
Visually inspect the area around the fan motor for any obstructions like debris or loose wires that might prevent it from spinning freely. Remove any obstructions carefully, using tweezers or another appropriate tool.
Test or Replace the Fan Motor
If you suspect that the fan motor is not working, consider running a diagnostic test if your dishwasher has that capability. Refer to your user manual for instructions.
If the fan motor is indeed faulty, replacement is usually the next course of action. Depending on your level of expertise, you may choose to replace it yourself or hire a professional.
Review the Dishwashing Cycle
Refer to the Manual
Locate your dishwasher’s manual and review the various types of washing cycles available. Identify those cycles that include a drying phase. Usually, cycles named “Auto” or “Normal” include drying, but this can differ between brands and models.
Choose an Appropriate Cycle
After identifying the cycles with a drying phase, opt for one that best matches the type of dishes you are washing. Some cycles may be more suited for delicate items, while others may be designed for pots and pans.
Run a Test Load
Try running a load of dishes using the cycle you’ve chosen to ensure that the dishes come out dry. If they do, you’ve likely resolved the drying issue. If not, you might need to revisit the previous steps or consider consulting a professional.
For more articles on dishwashers, click here: Dishwasher Problems and Solutions: Your Ultimate Guide to Hassle-free Dishwashing
Conclusion: Why Would Dishwasher Not Dry Dishes?
In conclusion, if you’ve been wondering why your dishwasher is not drying dishes, rest assured that this is a common issue with various possible explanations.
From checking the heating element and door seal to considering rinse aid and fan motor functionality, there are several actionable steps you can take to solve the problem.
Following this comprehensive guide should put you on the path to resolution. However, if the issue persists, it may be wise to consult a professional for a thorough evaluation and possible part replacements.