Repairing a dishwasher

Sometimes the reason by which a dishwasher fails is much simpler than we imagine and can be easily fixed.

For example, if you turn the dishwasher on and it doesn't run, there are several simple reasons for it and you might be able to easily discover what happens. First, and although it might sound obvious, you should make sure the door is properly closed and the power is on. If this is not the problem, there could be a failure with the timer, the selector switch or the door switch. In order to check this, you should turn the power off and adjust the strike of the door latch with a screwdriver.

Other common problem you might have to face with a dishwasher is that it doesn't fill properly or at all. Often, the reason by which a dishwasher doesn't fill is that it is draining water too soon or there is a problem with the water supply system. The first thing you should do, even if it seems too evident, is to check that the water supply is on. If it is, then you should check the stop valve of the water supply is on, you will probably find this valve under the sink.

If you are sure the water and the stop valve are open but the dishwasher doesn't fill, then you should check on the float. In order to do this, you have to turn the power off and then search for the float inside the dishwasher. The float is placed at the base of a tube. You should disconnect the float from below and lift it in order to be able to rinse it as well as clean the area that surrounds the tube. Then make sure of placing everything back in the same way it originally was and test it can move up and down without obstacles.

If after cleaning the float and the area that surrounds the tube the dishwasher still doesn't work, you should call a professional repair person. If you are not sure how to follow any of these steps properly, it is always better to ask for help, since although these problems could be fixed easily doing something improperly could also damage the dishwasher.