A dishwasher makes your family’s daily life so much easier — until it begins working incorrectly, that is. Fortunately, most dishwasher issues can be resolved with a few simple steps. Here are some of the most common plumbing issues dishwashers experience and how you can quickly fix them. 

3 Plumbing Issues That Affect Dishwashers

1. Failing to Drain

If water isn’t draining out of your dishwasher, it could be due to several issues. Start by looking at the drain and filter. If these spots are clogged, cleaning them should solve the problem. If this doesn’t work, you might have a damaged drain pump, clogged house drain, or broken sensor. Call a plumber to safely move the dishwasher to diagnose the issue and clean or replace the defective parts. 

2. Not Filling Up With Enough Water

To wash your dishes correctly, an inlet valve pumps water into the dishwasher for a certain amount of time — often between 60 and 120 seconds, depending on the make and model. If the screen covering the valve is filled with sediment and minerals, the appliance won’t be able to fill with enough water before the timer runs out.

If this valve is easily accessible, you can keep the screen clean and ensure your dishes come out sparkling. However, if it’s not, it’s best to schedule regular maintenance calls with a plumber to prevent leaks and avoid damaging this expensive component.

3. Leaking

A leaking dishwasher poses a serious problem for your kitchen. If not repaired quickly, your cabinets and flooring could sustain significant water damage. When looking for the source of the leak, first check the pump at the bottom of the dishwasher for any damage. Detergents can cause the seal around the pump to break down over time. Similarly, the seals around the door can develop cracks or become loose, making them ineffective at preventing water from seeping out. If replacing these parts doesn’t stop the leak, be sure to call a plumbing professional before the problem worsens.

If you can’t fix the issue with your dishwasher on your own, call the team at James Carboni Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Based in North Franklin, CT, they’ve served the region for over 55 years. They’re fully licensed and insured to assist with all residential and commercial plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. You can also find a range of quality products at their showroom for completing projects of any size. Call them today at (860) 642-7847 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.