How To Repair A Dishwasher’s Spray Arm And Fix Your Dirty Dishes
What To Know
- The dishwasher spray arm is a crucial part of your dishwasher that rotates to spray water and detergent onto your dishes.
- Before you start repairing the spray arm, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue to make sure that the spray arm is actually the problem.
- If the spray arm is clogged, you can use a toothpick or a pipe cleaner to remove the debris.
The dishwasher spray arm is a crucial part of your dishwasher that rotates to spray water and detergent onto your dishes. Without a functioning spray arm, your dishes won‘t get clean. If you’re experiencing problems with your dishwasher, such as dishes not getting clean or water not spraying evenly, it’s possible that the spray arm is clogged or damaged.
Troubleshooting Dishwasher Spray Arm Issues
Before you start repairing the spray arm, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue to make sure that the spray arm is actually the problem. Here are some common signs that the spray arm needs to be repaired:
- Dishes are not getting clean
- Water is not spraying evenly
- Spray arm is making a loud noise
- Spray arm is not rotating
How to Repair a Dishwasher Spray Arm
If you’ve determined that the spray arm is the problem, you can follow these steps to repair it:
1. Gather your tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.
2. Unplug the dishwasher. This is a safety precaution to prevent electric shock.
3. Remove the spray arm. Locate the spray arm and remove the screws that hold it in place. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry the spray arm loose.
4. Inspect the spray arm. Look for any clogs or damage. If the spray arm is clogged, you can use a toothpick or a pipe cleaner to remove the debris. If the spray arm is damaged, you will need to replace it.
5. Reassemble the spray arm. Once you have cleaned or replaced the spray arm, reassemble it in the reverse order that you took it apart.
6. Test the dishwasher. Plug the dishwasher back in and run a cycle to test the spray arm.
Other Causes of Dishwasher Spray Arm Problems
If you have followed the steps above and the spray arm is still not working, there may be another issue with your dishwasher. Here are some other possible causes of dishwasher spray arm problems:
- Clogged water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is responsible for letting water into the dishwasher. If the valve is clogged, the spray arm will not get enough water to spray.
- Faulty water pump. The water pump is responsible for circulating water through the dishwasher. If the pump is faulty, the spray arm will not get enough water to spray.
- Broken spray arm motor. The spray arm motor is responsible for rotating the spray arm. If the motor is broken, the spray arm will not rotate.
How to Prevent Dishwasher Spray Arm Problems
There are a few things you can do to prevent dishwasher spray arm problems:
- Rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This will help to remove any food particles that could clog the spray arm.
- Clean the dishwasher filter regularly. The filter is responsible for trapping food particles and other debris. If the filter is clogged, the spray arm will not get enough water to spray.
- Use a dishwasher cleaner regularly. Dishwasher cleaners help to remove limescale and other buildup that can clog the spray arm.
Wrapping Up: Ensuring a Clean and Efficient Dishwasher
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can repair your dishwasher spray arm and get your dishwasher back in working order. Remember to troubleshoot the issue before you start repairing the spray arm, and to take precautions to prevent future problems. With a little care and maintenance, your dishwasher will keep your dishes sparkling clean for years to come.
