The Top 5 Dishwasher Faults Perth Technicians See Every Week

There’s nothing worse than opening your dishwsher expecting clean plates and finding murky water or half-washed dishes instead. While dishwashers are designed to make life easier, they’re also one of the most frequently used appliances in any household, which means they experience regular wear and tear.

For professional technicians handling dishwasher repairs in perth homes often experience the same common faults over and over. Understanding what these issues are can help you spot early warning signs and potentially prevent costly breakdowns.

1. The Dishwasher Isn’t Draining

A dishwasher that won’t drain properly is one of the most common issues Perth technicians encounter. If you open the door after a cycle and find water pooled at the bottom, something is stopping the machine from draining as it should.

The culprit is often a clogged filter or drain hose. Food scraps, grease, and detergent residue can build up over time, blocking water flow. In other cases, the issue might be related to the drain pump or a kink in the hose. If you’ve already cleaned the filter and checked for visible blockages but the problem persists, a faulty pump motor could be the cause.

Ignoring drainage issues can lead to unpleasant odours, bacteria growth, and even water damage. A technician can quickly diagnose whether it’s a simple blockage or a mechanical failure that needs replacement parts.

2. Dishes Aren’t Coming Out Clean

Another frustrating issue is when the dishwasher completes its cycle, but the dishes still look dirty or cloudy. This usually points to a water circulation problem.

Blocked spray arms are often the reason behind poor cleaning performance. Tiny holes in the arms can get clogged with food particles, preventing water from reaching all areas. Hard water buildup can also cause similar issues, as mineral deposits reduce water pressure.

In some cases, the heating element might not be working correctly, which means the water isn’t hot enough to break down grease and grime. Regularly cleaning spray arms and filters can help, but if your dishes consistently come out dirty, you might need a technician to test the circulation pump and heating components.

3. The Dishwasher Leaks Water

A leaking dishwasher is not just inconvenient. It can damage your flooring and cabinetry if left unchecked. Leaks are among the top reasons people call for dishwasher repairs. Perth homeowners often report water pooling at the front or sides of their appliance.

The source of a leak could be as simple as a worn-out door seal or a loose hose connection. Over time, rubber seals around the door or the bottom of the tub can deteriorate, letting water escape during cycles. Alternatively, the issue might stem from a cracked spray arm or an overfilled machine due to a faulty float switch.

It’s important not to ignore even a small leak. Apart from potential water damage, leaks can lead to electrical hazards. A professional technician will inspect seals, hoses, and internal components to identify and resolve the problem safely.

4. The Dishwasher Won’t Start

If you press the start button and nothing happens, it could be one of several issues. A common cause is a faulty door latch. Dishwashers are designed not to start unless the door is securely closed, so if the latch or sensor fails, the control board won’t receive the signal to begin the cycle.

Other possibilities include a tripped circuit breaker, a blown thermal fuse, or an issue with the control panel itself. Sometimes it’s as simple as a power interruption, but more often, it’s an electrical fault that requires diagnosis.

Because electrical components can be dangerous to handle without training, it’s best to avoid DIY fixes. Qualified technicians can test connections, replace damaged wiring, and ensure your appliance is safe to use.

5. Strange Noises During Cycles

Dishwashers aren’t silent, but they shouldn’t be making loud banging, grinding, or squealing sounds. Odd noises often signal a mechanical problem inside the machine.

A grinding sound could mean that the circulation pump motor bearings are worn out. Rattling or knocking noises might be caused by loose utensils or misaligned spray arms hitting dishes. If you hear a humming sound but no water movement, the motor might be jammed, or the impeller could be blocked.

Ignoring strange noises can lead to bigger mechanical failures down the line. It’s wise to have a professional assess any new or unusual sounds before they turn into costly repairs.

Why These Issues Happen So Often

Dishwashers are complex appliances that deal with water, heat, and electrical components all at once. Over time, seals wear down, motors weaken, and sensors become less reliable. The quality of water in Perth can also play a role. Hard water often leads to mineral buildup, which affects heating and spray performance.

Another factor is user habits. Overloading the dishwasher, skipping filter cleaning, or using too much detergent can shorten the life of your appliance. Taking a few minutes each month to clean the filter and check for buildup can significantly reduce the risk of failure.

When to Call for Professional Help

Some issues, like a clogged filter or loose rack, are easy to handle on your own. But if your dishwasher is leaking, not draining, or failing to start, it’s best to call a qualified technician. Attempting DIY repairs without proper tools or knowledge can cause further damage or void your warranty.

For households in Western Australia, there are trusted technicians who specialise in dishwasher repairs Perth residents can count on for fast, reliable service. They can identify the fault, replace damaged parts, and get your appliance running like new again.

Final Thoughts

Dishwashers make daily life easier, but when they stop working properly, the inconvenience can quickly add up. The most common faults are often preventable with regular care and prompt servicing.

If your dishwasher is showing any of these signs, don’t wait until it breaks down completely. Contact an experienced professional for dishwasher repairs perth homeowners rely on to restore their appliance’s performance and keep your kitchen running smoothly.