Is your dishwasher failing to heat up properly? Hot water is more efficient for washing and sanitizing dishes, so we understand how frustrating this can be. Fortunately, we’re here to help you with some troubleshooting tips so you can keep your dishes sparkly clean.
For a fast solution, skip the troubleshooting and call iFiX repair professionals in Utah today.
Inspect Your Plumbing
While the water system sits unused, the water in the pipes chills, which reduces the temperature of the water used by the dishwasher. Consider running water in the sink until its hot. This will bring hotter water to the dishwasher and may improve cleaning results.
The hot water line is under the kitchen sink and will have two valves. One controls the water service for the sink, while the other is connected to the dishwasher. If you have a cold water supply and the dishwasher isn’t properly heating the water, then your issue is likely due to the thermostat or heating element.
Check the Heating Element
Your dishwasher’s heating element is responsible for regulating water temperature and drying dishes. Heating elements are fairly durable, but they can experience an electrical fault from time to time, causing drying issues that may result in a fire if not addressed as soon as possible.
You’ll want to replace the heating element if it’s not heating correctly. Suppose the heating element isn’t visibly broken. In that case, check for a wiring failure, control failure, or a blown fuse in the heating circuit.
Test the Thermostat
Your dishwasher’s thermostat doesn’t directly heat the water, but it still plays a small role. The component tells the heating element temperature that the water needs to be.
The thermostat shuts off the heating element when it detects water temperature above 207 degrees Fahrenheit. A defective high-limit thermostat trips at a cooler temperature and prevents the heating element from heating.
You can test the electrical continuity of your dishwasher’s thermostat if you have a multimeter tool. This device measures the voltage, current, and resistance of a particular component to see if it sits within expected readings. This reading should range from 15-30 ohms.
Fortunately, thermostats are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Make sure to shut off electrical power before you replace the thermostat. If you are uncomfortable with this handling the internals of your dishwasher, we recommend calling a dishwasher repair company to fix the problem.
Clean Out the Filter
Your dishwasher’s filter must be free of buildup to effectively heat up water. Locate the filter near the bottom of the appliance and scrub it with warm water and soap. Once the filter is thoroughly clean, slide in the coarse mesh filter followed by the cylindrical filter. Give the filter a slight tug to ensure it has seated.
Contact iFiX Today for Your Dishwasher Repair
Don’t wait to diagnose your dishwasher heating issue. Contact the experienced appliance repair technicians at iFiX in Ogden, Utah for prompt and professional resolution. The stakes are high when you delay repairs. Let us eliminate this potential problem by maintaining and repairing your appliances- particularly your dishwasher. Call our locally-owned and operated appliance repair service at 801.731.4349 for all your dishwasher needs.