Dishwasher - Not Washing Properly

If there is food or detergent residue left on your dishes when the wash cycle is complete, there are a few things you can do to improve your dishwasher's cleaning performance. Please review the tips listed below to improve wash performance.

 

Check Installation:

  • Make sure the dishwasher is connected to the hot water line and not to the cold water line. None of our dishwashers can heat cold water so that it is hot enough to wash effectively. A 3/8" O.D. copper water line or 1/2" O.D. plastic water line should be used.

  • 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 36" high (countertop height) will not drain well and can affect wash performance.

 

Incoming Water Pressure and Temperature is Important:

  • 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 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 hot water at your kitchen sink and measure the temperature of the running water with a cooking thermometer. Adjust the temperature of your water heater accordingly.

  • Avoid running the dishwasher during or immediately after hot water is being used for other activities, like filling a bathtub or clothes washer.

  • Check the water pressure. Very low water pressure keeps the dishwasher from filling or filling enough. The water pressure to the dishwasher should be between 20 to 120 PSI.

 

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.

  • On models with Wash Zones (Upper rack or Lower rack option), make sure this feature is not selected. You may want to take a look at our Dishwasher - Wash Zones article.

 

Detergent Quality and Amount Affect Performance:

 

Food Debris Build-Up:

  • 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 removable Fine and Ultra-Fine filters, take out the filters and clean them. These filters should be cleaned once a month to ensure optimum wash performance. You may want to take a look at our Dishwasher - How to Clean Fine and Ultra Fine Filters article.

  • To prevent food debris from entering the dishwasher, scrape excess food off the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher.

 

Check How the Racks are Loaded:

 

White Film or Residue on Dishes:

 

If the above suggestions do not correct the situation, service may be needed. For service, please schedule a repair appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.