Whirlpool Dishwasher: not cleaning

Possible Causes

Clogged or dirty filters

How to Identify: Visible food debris in the filter, slow water draining, recurring dirty dishes.

Part: Dishwasher filter

Blocked or clogged spray arms

How to Identify: Spray arm holes blocked with food particles or mineral buildup, spray arms not spinning freely.

Part: Spray arms (upper and lower)

Insufficient water temperature or supply

How to Identify: Water feels not hot, longer wash cycles don’t improve cleanliness, possible inlet valve issues.

Part: Water inlet system and heating element

Faulty circulation pump or motor issues

How to Identify: Dishwasher fills but little water sprays from arms; humming or no sound from pump during cycle.

Part: Circulation pump and motor

DIY Solutions

Clean the dishwasher filter

Easy 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: gloves, soft brush, warm soapy water

1. Turn off dishwasher and open the bottom rack.
2. Locate and remove the filter at the bottom of the tub.
3. Rinse and scrub the filter under warm water until debris is removed.
4. Reinstall the clean filter and close the dishwasher.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dishwasher is off before removing filter.

Clear and clean spray arms

Moderate 15-30 minutes

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

1. Remove top and bottom spray arms per your model’s manual.
2. Inspect holes for debris and use a toothpick or brush to clear blockages.
3. Rinse the arms under warm water.
4. Reinstall and ensure they spin freely before closing dishwasher.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before disassembling parts.

Correct loading and detergent practices

Easy 5-10 minutes

1. Load dishes ensuring good spacing and no spray arm blocking.
2. Use recommended dishwasher detergent and correct amount.
3. Do not over-prewash dishes; scrape off large debris only.
4. Check that the detergent dispenser is not clogged with caked detergent.

Run a maintenance cleaning cycle

Easy 60 minutes

Tools Needed: Dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar

1. Place dishwasher cleaner or a bowl of white vinegar on the top rack.
2. Run a hot cycle to dissolve mineral buildup and remove deposits.
3. Wipe interior surfaces after cycle completes.
4. Repeat monthly for maintenance.

Professional Repairs

Replace water inlet valve or heating element

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace circulation pump or motor assembly

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher still fails to clean after basic maintenance and DIY fixes

No water sprays from the arms or unusual noises from motor/pump

Visible mechanical damage or fault codes on display

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean filter and spray arms: Clogs that reduce cleaning performance
  Frequency: monthly
• Run a vinegar or dishwasher cleaner cycle: Mineral buildup and residue affecting cleaning efficacy
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Dishwasher not cleaning?

Common causes include clogged filters, blocked spray arms, or insufficient water temperature.

How do I fix Whirlpool Dishwasher not cleaning myself?

Clean filters, clear spray arms, ensure proper loading, and run a maintenance cycle.

How much does it cost to fix not cleaning?

Professional repairs can cost between $100 and $400 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not cleaning?

If DIY solutions fail or if you suspect a faulty circulation pump or motor.

References & Sources

• Why is my dishwasher not cleaning dishes properly? Official
• Troubleshooting Dishwasher Cleaning Issues Repair-Blog

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Circulation pump failure (4 mentions)
• Diverter motor failure (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replace the circulation pump

   Success rate: 29.0%

2. Replace the diverter motor in the sump assembly

   Success rate: 14.0%

Community Discussions

not cleaning great after circulation pump replacement

The diverter motor in the sump assembly was bad and was replaced, resolving the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

not cleaning dishes, POD not breaking apart, silent during wash cycle

Replace the circulation pump based on error codes.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Doesn't do anything during the clean cycle

Replace the circulation pump

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair