Dishwasher

Dishwasher not cleaning dishes? 4 likely causes

Poor cleaning is often a blocked spray arm, filter or limescale rather than a mechanical fault.

Symptom: Cloudy glasses or food left on plates · Typical cost: £70–£160 if a part is needed.

Always switch off and unplug the appliance before inspecting it. Never work on gas appliances or fixed electrical wiring yourself — call a Gas Safe registered engineer or a qualified electrician.

Likely causes, most common first

  1. 1

    Blocked spray arms

    DIY: easy

    Food or limescale blocks the holes.

    The fix:Remove arms and clear holes.

  2. 2

    Dirty filter

    DIY: easy

    The filter clogs.

    The fix:Rinse the filter.

  3. 3

    No salt / rinse aid in hard-water areas

    DIY: easy

    Limescale builds up without the softener salt.

    The fix:Refill salt and rinse aid and run a descale.

  4. 4

    Weak circulation pump or heater

    Engineer job

    Low pressure or low temperature reduces cleaning.

    The fix:Test and replace parts.

When to call an engineer

  • Dirty water in the sump
  • Error codes
  • You are not comfortable working on the appliance, or the fix involves electrics or gas.

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Error codes linked to this fault

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to fix a dishwasher problem like this?

£70–£160 if a part is needed.

Is it safe to keep using it?

If you can see leaks, smell burning, or the appliance is tripping the electrics, stop using it and unplug it. For minor faults without those signs it is usually safe to leave it off until you can diagnose it. Always switch off and unplug the appliance before inspecting it. Never work on gas appliances or fixed electrical wiring yourself — call a Gas Safe registered engineer or a qualified electrician.