Kenmore Dishwasher: not cleaning properly

Possible Causes

Clogged or blocked spray arms

How to Identify: Poor water spray distribution, visible debris blocking spray holes, arms not spinning

Part: Spray arms (upper, lower, middle)

Dirty or clogged filter

How to Identify: Filter clogging with food debris, slow draining, dirty wash water

Part: Dishwasher filter

Improper loading or detergent usage

How to Identify: Overloaded racks, blocked water flow, wrong detergent type or amount

Part: User practices (loading/detergent)

Food chopper or debris grinder malfunction

How to Identify: Visible large debris, poor drainage, recurring blockages

Part: Food chopper/drain pump area

DIY Solutions

Clean spray arms

Moderate 15–30 minutes

Tools Needed: toothpick or small brush, warm water, screwdriver (if needed)

1. Remove upper/lower/middle spray arms per model instructions
2. Rinse under warm water and use a toothpick/brush to clear clogged holes
3. Ensure arms spin freely and reinstall properly

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before starting

Clean dishwasher filter

Easy 10–20 minutes

Tools Needed: warm water, soft brush

1. Remove lower rack to access filter
2. Twist/pull out the filter and rinse under warm water
3. Scrub with a soft brush to remove debris and reinstall

Correct loading and detergent

Easy 5–10 minutes

1. Do not overcrowd dishes, ensure spray arms aren’t blocked
2. Use high‑quality detergent in correct amount for water hardness
3. Select appropriate wash cycle

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $30–$80

Repair/replace circulation pump or motor

Estimated Cost: $100–$250

Replace food chopper/upper discharge housing

Estimated Cost: $40–$100

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher fills inadequately or not at all

Unusual noises from pump or motor

Electrical components suspected (control board faults)

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean filters and spray arms: Clogs leading to poor cleaning
  Frequency: monthly
• Use dishwasher cleaner/hot cycle with vinegar: Mineral and grease buildup affecting spray arm and filter performance
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dishwasher not cleaning properly?

Common causes include clogged spray arms, dirty filters, and improper loading.

How do I fix Kenmore Dishwasher not cleaning properly myself?

Clean the spray arms and filter, and ensure proper loading and detergent use.

How much does it cost to fix not cleaning properly?

Professional repairs range from $30 to $250 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not cleaning properly?

Call a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if it's complex.

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Lower spray arm not rotating (1 mentions)
• Food disposal blade or filter issues (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replace lower spray arm

   Success rate: 50.0%

2. Check and clean food disposal blade and filter

   Success rate: 0.0%

Community Discussions

bottom rack dishes not getting clean, lower spray arm not rotating

Replacement part for lower spray arm identified.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair