When a dishwasher isn't washing well, it can leave food particles, detergent residue, or even a white film or spots on your dishes and glasses. Below are a few things you can do to resolve this issue.
What You Should Check
Check Installation
Make sure the dishwasher is connected to the hot water line and not to the cold water line.
Is the dishwasher level from side to side and front to back? Improper leveling can lead to a number of cleaning issues, including affecting how well it can drain the dirty water from the tub.
A drain hose installed over 72" high will not drain well and can affect wash performance.
Verify Incoming Water Temperature and Pressure
Check the water temperature. Proper water temperature is essential to achieve optimum results from your dishwasher and the detergent. Hot water is needed to dissolve and activate the detergent so that it can loosen and remove common food soils. The hot water heater should be set to deliver at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit water to the dishwasher.
To check the water temperature, run the hot water at the kitchen sink and measure the temperature of the running water with a candy or meat thermometer. Adjust the temperature of the water heater accordingly.
To be sure that the dishwasher is filling with the hottest possible water, run the hot water faucet at the kitchen sink prior to operating the dishwasher.
Avoid running the dishwasher during or immediately after hot water is being used for other activities, like filling a bathtub or taking a shower.
Check the water pressure. The water pressure to the dishwasher should be between 20 to 120 PSI. The water line connected to the dishwasher should be a 3/8" O.D. copper water line or 1/2" O.D. plastic water line.
Proper Cycle Selection
Check the wash cycle selection. Select the appropriate cycle for the dish load. Selecting a short or light wash cycle may save water and energy but may not provide proper wash action for a heavily soiled load. If food remains on the dishware after the cycle, a longer cycle may be required.
Use the added heat options to increase water temperature inside of the dishwasher. For example, use "Hot Start", "Added Heat", "Wash Heat Boost" or similar options if your dishwasher is equipped with these features.
On models with a Single Rack wash or Wash Zones (Upper & Lower wash) feature, make sure this feature is not selected. You may want to take a look at our Dishwasher - Wash Zones article.
Detergent and Rinse Aid Use
Use high quality detergents such as Cascade® Platinum™ ActionPacs™ or Finish® Quantum® Automatic Dishwashing Detergent. Do not use liquid dish detergents that are not made for automatic dishwashers.
Check the amount of detergent you use and the water hardness. For more information about how water hardness impacts the amount of detergent you should use, take a look at our Dishwasher - Detergent Use and Water Hardness article.
When checking and calibrating your water water hardness, the below video may help.
Dishwasher - Water Level Hardness Settings
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Food Particles
Excessive amounts of food may clog the dishwasher filters and reduce wash performance. If any jets (holes) within the wash arms are blocked, use a small object such as a paper clip or tweezers to loosen and remove the debris. Be careful not to damage the jets in any way as that will affect wash performance.
On models with a removable fine and ultra fine filter, take out the filters and clean them. These filters should be cleaned once a month to ensure optimum wash performance. You may want to look at the article about Dishwasher - How to Clean Fine and Ultra Fine Filters.
To prevent food debris from entering the dishwasher, scrape dishes before placing them in the dishwasher.
Rack Loading
Proper loading will ensure optimal wash performance. For more information, visit the article about Dishwasher - Loading Tips.
If the above suggestions do not correct the situation, service will be required. For service, please schedule a repair appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.