Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Repairing or Replacing

A faulty dishwasher can leave you with dirty dishes, leaks, and even higher bills. Here's how to tell whether your dishwasher needs a repair or a replacement.

Signs It Needs Repairing

  • Dishes Come Out Dirty or Cloudy

    If your dishes aren’t being cleaned properly, the issue could be with clogged spray arms, a worn pump, or a faulty heating element.

  • It’s Not Draining

    Water left in the bottom after a cycle often points to a blocked filter, faulty drain pump, or kinked hose.

  • Leaking Water

    Puddles on the floor could come from a worn door seal, cracked hoses, or a damaged tub—often repairable if caught early.

  • Unusual Noises During the Cycle

    Grinding, rattling, or humming may indicate motor, fan, or bearing issues.

  • Buttons or Display Aren’t Working

    If the control panel isn’t responding, it may be a board, wiring, or touchpad fault—these can often be fixed without replacing the unit.

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Dishwasher Needs Repairing

Signs It Needs Maintenance

  • Bad Smells

    Food residue can build up in filters and spray arms, causing unpleasant odours. Regular cleaning is essential.

  • Slow or Incomplete Cycles

    This may result from clogged filters, hard water build-up, or sensor issues—servicing can usually resolve it.

  • Dirty or Blocked Spray Arms

    Spray holes should be clear and spinning freely—if not, they’ll need cleaning or replacement.

  • Hard Water Deposits or Limescale

    White film on dishes or inside the tub is a sign you need a dishwasher cleaner or water softener.

  • You Haven’t Cleaned It in Over 3–6 Months

    Routine cleaning of the filter, door seals, and spray arms helps prevent breakdowns and keeps performance high.

Signs It Might Be Time to Replace

  • It’s Over 10–12 Years Old

    Older dishwashers tend to be louder, less efficient, and more prone to breakdowns. Modern models use less water and energy.

  • Repairs Are Becoming Frequent or Costly

    If the machine has multiple issues or the repair cost is more than 50% of a new one, upgrading is often better.

  • It’s No Longer Energy or Water Efficient

    Newer dishwashers are far more economical saving you money in the long run.

  • It Won’t Start or Stops Mid-Cycle Repeatedly

    If basic troubleshooting doesn’t fix it, this may be a sign of control board or internal failure.

  • Rust, Cracks, or Door Damage

    If the interior tub is rusting or the door no longer closes securely, it’s likely time for a replacement.

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