
Have you noticed the dishes coming out of the dishwasher are still dirty? Perhaps you’ve noticed your dishwasher making unusual noises or water pooling at the bottom after the cycle finishes. All of these issues can be caused by a dishwasher that isn’t spraying water, but this can be difficult to diagnose. If you suspect your dishwasher may be experiencing spraying problems, follow this guide to diagnose and solve the issue.
How to tell if your dishwasher is not spraying water
As you can’t see inside your dishwasher while it’s operating, it can be tricky to know whether it is spraying water. Some telltale signs that you have an issue with water spray include:
- Dirty dishes: If the dishes don’t appear to be cleaned properly, or not cleaned at all at the end of a cycle.
- No water sounds: If your cycle is suddenly a lot quieter than usual, it could be due to a lack of water spray.
- Detergent not dissolved: If you use powder or pod dish detergent and notice it is not dissolved at the end of the cycle, it could be due to a lack of spray.
- Loud grinding noises: If the pump is not distributing the water properly, you might hear loud noises as it struggles to work.
Inspect the spray arms
Obstructions in the spray arms can cause problems with water spray; luckily, this is a pretty easy problem to fix. Spray arms are hollow plastic blades with small holes designed to distribute water evenly over dishes. They rotate throughout the cycle, recirculating soapy water over the dishes and then rinsing them with clean water.
While this process usually works seamlessly, if the spray arms are obstructed or if the holes get blocked, your dishes will remain dirty. They are prone to mold and mildew buildup, which can partially obstruct the holes. It’s also possible for small fibrous food items like lentils or quinoa to get stuck in the arm holes, preventing water spray. Here’s what to check:
- First, make sure the spray arms aren’t obstructed by improperly loaded dishes. Manually spin both the upper and lower spray arms to check if they can completely rotate.
- Next, it’s time to check for blockages. You may need to remove the upper and lower dish racks to gain access to the spray arms.
- Remove the spray arms by unscrewing them counterclockwise. If this doesn’t work, consult your manual—the process may differ slightly for different makes and models.
- Inspect the spray arms for blockages. You can test this by running water through the arms and checking to see if it comes out of all the holes.
- If the spray holes are blocked, try using a toothpick or piece of wire to unclog the holes.
- Next, soak the spray arms in a large container filled with soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.
- If they still appear clogged, clean the interior with a thin brush or pipe cleaner. Repeat this process until water flows freely through all the holes.
- Replace the spray arms, then run a test cycle to see if your dishes are now being properly cleaned.
Inspect the filter
While the filter isn’t directly responsible for water spray, it can affect how much water recirculates throughout your washing machine’s interior. If the filter gets too blocked, less water will flow through the pump, preventing your dishes from becoming clean.
- To access the filter, remove the lower dish rack.
- Most filters can simply be unscrewed counterclockwise, but some have filter covers. If you’re having issues removing yours, try checking your dishwasher manual for tips.
- Remove the filter and empty out all visible debris.
- Run the filter under your kitchen sink. Use a small scrubbing brush to remove any stubborn dirt.
- Once the filter is clean, replace it in the filter housing, then run a test cycle to see if the spray cycle is now working properly.
Check the water inlet valve
Another potential cause of a dishwasher that isn’t spraying water is an issue with your water supply. The most common point of failure for the water supply in a dishwasher is the water inlet valve.
- First, turn off the water supply to avoid accidental leaks and spills.
- Access the water inlet valve. If you’re not sure where it is, check your dishwasher manual. It’s often at the bottom of the dishwasher, behind an access panel.
- Check the valve for any visible damage or blockages. If it appears damaged, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the valve inlet screens for blockages or mineral buildup.
- If any part of the inlet valve needs replacing, source a replacement part online, ensuring it is compatible with your dishwasher.
- Install the new parts, turn the water back on, and run a test cycle to determine whether the issue has been resolved.
Ensure the pump is working
The dishwasher pump circulates water throughout your dishwasher’s interior, including to the spray arms. If the pump is faulty or obstructed, it won’t be able to supply water properly. The most common point of obstruction is the pump impeller—here’s how to fix this:
- Turn off your dishwasher’s power supply to ensure your safety.
- Access the pump. It is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher behind the lowest access panel, but this may vary. Always check your manual!
- Once you’ve located the pump, check the impeller for blockages. The impeller, which looks like a small plastic fan, may become blocked by small, hard items like broken crockery or fruit pits.
- Once any blockages are cleared, manually spin the impeller to ensure it can move properly.
- Reinstall the lower front panel and restore the dishwasher’s power. Then, run a test cycle to ensure that it is functioning normally.

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