Troubleshooting Your Dishwasher

**How to Troubleshoot Your Dishwasher Before Calling Maintenance**

Your dishwasher is a key part of your kitchen routine. When it’s not working properly, it can throw things off. Before calling maintenance, try these quick troubleshooting tips. It might be something simple you can fix on your own, saving you time and effort.

1. **Check the Power Connection**

- Make sure your dishwasher is plugged in and the power switch is on. Some models have a switch under the sink or on a nearby wall.

- If it's not starting, check your circuit breaker to ensure the power hasn’t tripped.

2. **Inspect the Door Latch**

- Your dishwasher won’t run if the door isn’t closed or latched properly. Ensure the latch clicks shut when you close it.

- If the latch appears loose or damaged, it might need tightening or replacement. You can call maintenance if you notice this issue.

3. **Check the Water Supply**

- Ensure the water supply valve under the sink is turned on. Dishwashers need a steady flow of water to function properly.

- If there is no water flowing into the dishwasher, the inlet valve may be clogged. This is more complicated, so it's best to contact maintenance if you suspect this issue.

4. **Clear the Filter**

- Over time, food particles and debris can clog the dishwasher filter, reducing its efficiency.

- To clean it, remove the bottom rack and locate the filter (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher). Twist or pull it out, then rinse it under warm water.

5. **Check the Spray Arms**

- Clogged spray arms can lead to poor cleaning performance. Remove the arms (located under the racks) and rinse them under warm water. Use a toothpick to clear out any blocked holes.

- Reattach the arms securely before running the dishwasher again.

6. **Inspect the Drain Hose**

- If there is standing water at the bottom, the drain hose might be clogged. Check under the sink where the drain hose connects to the sink or garbage disposal.

- If you see any kinks in the hose, try to straighten them out. If you suspect a clog, contact maintenance for assistance.

7. **Check for Soap Residue**

- Too much detergent or the wrong kind of soap can cause excessive suds and poor cleaning performance.

- Make sure you are using a dishwasher-specific detergent and measure it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

8. **Reset the Dishwasher**

- Sometimes a quick reset can solve the problem. Most dishwashers have a reset button or a combination of buttons you can press to reset the cycle. Refer to your user manual for specific instructions.

9. **Run a Test Cycle**

- After going through these steps, run a short cycle with no dishes inside. This can help identify if the issue is resolved or if further maintenance is needed.

When to Call Maintenance

If you’ve tried these steps and your dishwasher is still not working, it’s time to call maintenance. Be sure to mention any unusual noises, leaks, or error codes you observed during your troubleshooting. This information will help our maintenance team diagnose and fix the problem more efficiently.

By trying these simple steps first, you can potentially resolve the issue on your own and keep your dishwasher running smoothly. If not, our maintenance team is always ready to assist!