What to do when your Dacor dishwasher isn't cleaning the dishes
- If your dishes are still dirty after you run the dishwasher, first make sure you're loading them correctly. Our how to load a dishwasher video gives tips on where (and where not) to load dishes to get them clean.
- Other non-mechanical reasons for dishes not getting clean include water temperature and water hardness. Water that's not hot enough won't get dishes clean. To test your water temperature, run the hot water in the sink for a minute before starting the dishwasher. Using a thermometer, test the temperature of the water by filling a glass from the sink; the temperature should be between 110 and 120 degrees. Adjust the temperature on your water heater as needed. It's also important to use the right amount of detergent for your water's level of hardness. This video shows how to check water hardness. Use more dishwasher detergent if your home has hard water.
- Poor cleaning could also be due to a mechanical problem with your dishwasher. A failed water inlet valve won't allow enough water into the dishwasher tub to clean the dishes. Dishes won't get clean if the detergent dispenser doesn't open. Watch our troubleshooting video for tips on how to fix a broken detergent dispenser.
- Check the dishwasher spray arms for clogs, jams or breaks and clear clogs or replace damaged spray arms that can prevent dishes from getting clean.
- Problems with the circulation pump can also prevent dishes from getting clean. You may need to replace the pump and motor assembly or pump motor if cleaning the pump doesn't restore water flow to the spray arms.
Troubleshooting tips for your Dacor dishwasher when it won't start
You fill your Dacor dishwasher with dishes and shut the door, but the dishwasher doesn't start. To troubleshoot the problem, start by checking the light switch beside the sink that shuts off power to the dishwasher in most kitchen installations. If that doesn't help, check the dishwasher door switch, because the cycle won't start with a broken door switch.
If the door switch is okay, a damaged control panel, failed user interface control or broken electronic control board can prevent your Dacor dishwasher from starting.