Is Your Dishwasher Not Filling with Water?

June 26, 2018

As a homeowner, it’s important to have a general understanding of the basics of residential plumbing in Vacaville, CA. That way, you can diagnose things like dishwasher issues and avoid potentially damaging and costly plumbing problems. We want to help you get in the know, so below are four reasons why your dishwasher may not be filling with water.

Door switch is faulty

When your dishwasher is running, you must make sure that its door is closed. If it’s at all ajar, water and soap will leak out. The thing about dishwasher doors is that they have to be closed and locked before the machine allows you to start a new wash cycle—it’s a built-in failsafe. However, if the door switch is not working properly, the machine won’t recognize whether the door is opened or closed. Water won’t gush out, thankfully—there just won’t be any water.

Check the switch to see if the prong is broken. Replace it if it is. If the switch looks fine, you’ll have to test it using a multimeter or hire a plumber to inspect it.

Filter screens are dirty

Your dishwasher might not be filling with water because its water valve filter screen is clogged with debris. If this is the case, access the machine’s water inlet valve and try cleaning it out to clear the way for water flow. This could solve the problem. Read your dishwasher owner’s manual to find out how to access the water inlet valve without damaging dishwasher components.

Another reason your dishwasher may not be filling with water is a defective water inlet valve. Test it yourself for continuity or call a local plumber to test and possibly replace a non-functioning valve.

The float is stuck or broken

Dishwashers have a piece inside them called the float. It’s the float’s job to recognize when the right amount of water has filled up the dishwasher, and then stop the flow of water. But a float that is stuck at its preset level or broken will prevent water from flowing into the dishwasher. How does a float become stuck? Debris can cause the float to stick or otherwise keep it from lowering. If the float switch isn’t responding, then it needs to be replaced.

Hoses having problems

You know your dishwasher has to have hoses for the water to pass through, but where are they located? There’s a kick plate panel with hoses attached to it inside the dishwasher. These hoses bring water into your dishwasher, but if they are damaged or kinked, water won’t be able to make its way inside the machine. Check that these hoses are in good condition and that they are straightened out. Keep in mind that older hoses can dry out and weaken over time, leading to problems if they are not inspected and replaced in time.

When your residential plumbing in Vacaville, CA decides to act up, you can count on the team at ABC Plumbing to save the day. Call now to schedule plumbing service!

Categorised in:

ABC Plumbing, Water Treatment, Filtration and Well Services