Simple Guide to Common Parts That Break In Dishwashers

 

Dishwashers are a staple in modern kitchens, offering convenience and efficiency by saving time and water. However, regular use can lead to wear and tear, causing certain parts to fail over time. Understanding which components are most likely to break helps you diagnose issues early, avoid costly repairs, and extend the life of your appliance. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or simply responsible for maintaining kitchen appliances, this guide will walk you through the most common dishwasher parts that break, the reasons behind their failure, and practical solutions to keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Most Common Parts That Break in Dishwashers

Below are the key components in dishwashers that frequently break down, along with tips on identifying and fixing the issues.

1. Door Latch and Switch Assembly

The door latch is more than just a handle — it's a safety feature that ensures the dishwasher only runs when securely closed. The latch connects to a switch that signals the control board that the door is shut.

Why it Breaks: 

Constant opening and closing, wear on the latch mechanism, or misalignment over time can lead to failure. Moisture can also corrode internal switches.

Symptoms of Failure:

• The dishwasher doesn’t start

• The door won’t close or latch properly

• Error messages related to door closure

Solution: Inspect for alignment issues and clean the latch area. If the latch is broken or the switch is faulty, it typically requires replacing the entire assembly.

2. Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher. It opens at the beginning of a cycle and closes once the correct amount of water has entered.

Why it Breaks:
Mineral deposits from hard water can clog the valve, and mechanical or electrical failures can prevent it from opening or closing properly.

Signs of Failure:

• The dishwasher doesn’t fill with water

• Low water pressure during the cycle

• Constant water intake or leaks during operation

Solution: Try cleaning the valve with vinegar if buildup is the issue. If damaged, it’s best to replace the valve with a model-specific part, which is readily available in dishwasher maintenance parts kits from most appliance retailers.

3. Circulation Pump and Motor

The circulation pump is responsible for moving water from the base of the dishwasher through the spray arms. It’s the heart of the cleaning process.

Why it Breaks:
The pump motor can burn out with age. Debris, like broken glass or food particles, can clog or damage the impeller inside.

Symptoms:

• Weak or no water spray

• Dishes are not being cleaned

• Unusual noises during washing cycles

Solution: Clean the filter and pump housing. If the motor has failed or the impeller is damaged, professional replacement may be necessary due to the complexity of the repair.

4. Spray Arms

Spray arms rotate during the wash cycle to distribute pressurized water across all dish surfaces. They often feature small holes or jets for targeted cleaning.

Why They Break:
Hard water deposits and food debris can clog the nozzles. Plastic arms may crack or warp over time due to heat and water pressure.

Symptoms of Failure:

• Incomplete cleaning

• Spray arms are not spinning freely

• Visible cracks or obstructions in the nozzles

Solution: Remove and soak the spray arms in vinegar to clear any buildup. If damaged, replacement is inexpensive and can be done without tools in many models.

5 . Drain Pump

The drain pump expels dirty water from the dishwasher at the end of a wash cycle. It's a vital part of maintaining hygiene and performance.

Why it Breaks:
Clogs from food, grease, or foreign objects (like broken glass or bones) can jam the impeller. Motors can also wear out over time.

Common Symptoms:

• Standing water after the cycle

• Loud buzzing or humming noises

• Drain-related error codes on digital models

Solution: Clean the drain filter and inspect the pump for visible blockages. If the motor fails or the impeller is damaged, you’ll need a replacement pump.

6. Heating Element

Found at the base of most dishwashers, the heating element raises water temperature for cleaning and heats air for drying dishes.

Why it Fails:
Limescale buildup or corrosion can render the element inefficient. Over time, the metal can also crack from repeated expansion and contraction.

Symptoms:

• Dishes not drying

• Water isn’t hot during the wash cycle

• Burnt smell or visible discoloration

Solution: Test the heating element with a multimeter for continuity. If defective, replace it. Use a dishwasher-safe cleaner monthly to prevent mineral deposits.

7. Float Assembly and Float Switch

The float assembly prevents overfilling by detecting water levels. When water reaches a certain height, the float rises and triggers a switch to stop intake.

Why it Breaks:
The float can get stuck due to food or detergent residue. The float switch itself may also wear out or short-circuit.

Symptoms of a Faulty Float or Switch:

• The dishwasher doesn’t fill

• Water overflowed inside the tub

• Error codes related to water level

Solution: Ensure the float moves freely by lifting it up and down manually. If it’s stuck or the switch isn’t responding, cleaning or replacement is required.

8. Detergent Dispenser

This component dispenses soap and rinse aid at the correct time in the wash cycle. It typically includes a spring-loaded door.

Why it Breaks:
Soap buildup can clog the compartment or stick the door. Springs or release mechanisms may also wear out.

Symptoms:

• Detergent is still in the dispenser after the cycle

• Dishes aren’t clean

• The dispenser door is stuck open or closed

Solution: Clean the dispenser thoroughly. If the spring or latch is damaged, replace the dispenser to restore proper soap distribution.

9. Control Panel and User Interface

The control panel allows you to select wash cycles, delay start times, and monitor dishwasher functions. It’s the digital brain of the machine.

Why it Breaks:
Moisture infiltration, wear from repeated pressing, or electrical issues can cause buttons or touchpads to stop functioning.

Symptoms of Failure:

• Buttons are unresponsive

• Random beeping or flashing lights

• The entire panel is not lighting up
  

Solution: Try a power reset first. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, replacing the control board or interface might be necessary. This is usually best handled by a technician.

10. Door Gasket (Seal)

The gasket is a rubber or silicone seal that lines the inside edge of the dishwasher door to prevent leaks during operation.

Why it Breaks:
Heat, detergent chemicals, and age can cause the gasket to dry out, crack, or deform. Mold and food residue can also reduce effectiveness.

Symptoms:

• Water leaks from around the door

• Visible mold, tears, or brittleness

• Musty smell after the cycle

Solution: Clean the gasket regularly. If it appears cracked or no longer seals properly, remove and replace it. Many models allow for easy push-in installation.

11. Thermostat

The thermostat monitors and regulates water temperature throughout the cycle, ensuring water is hot enough to clean and sanitize dishes effectively.

Why it Fails:
Electrical faults, age, or constant high heat exposure can wear out the thermostat.

Symptoms of a Faulty Thermostat:

• Lukewarm water during wash cycles

• Dishes not sanitized

• Dishwasher stuck in a cycle

Solution: Test with a multimeter for continuity. If it's faulty, a replacement is necessary and may require removing the dishwasher from the cabinet for access.

12. Check Valve

A small but important component, the check valve prevents dirty water from flowing back into the clean water stream.

Why it Breaks:
Debris or damage to the valve can cause it to stick open, allowing backflow.

Signs of a Faulty Check Valve:

• Dirty water re-entering after drainage

• Dishes are not getting fully clean

• Unusual odors

Solution: Clean or replace the valve if you notice backflow. Regular maintenance of the drainage system helps keep this part functional longer.

While dishwashers are designed for long-term use, certain parts naturally wear out over time. Regular inspection and timely replacement of worn dishwasher maintenance parts can prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs. With proper care and attention, your dishwasher will continue to operate efficiently and remain a reliable part of your kitchen routine.

Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of replacement components for Dryers, Dishwashers, and more.