Expert Repair Tips for Dishwashers Across the UK
If you own a dishwasher, chances are you’ve run into the occasional hiccup—whether it’s water pooling at the bottom, dishes coming out dirty, or the machine simply refusing to start. While modern dishwashers are designed for convenience, they aren’t immune to wear and tear over time. The good news? Many common dishwasher issues are repairable—especially with the help of a trained professional.
At Applanco Appliance Repair, we specialise in dishwasher repair UK services across cities and counties in the United Kingdom, offering fast, reliable solutions to keep your kitchen running smoothly. In this article, we’ll explore the most frequent dishwasher problems, how to troubleshoot them, and when it’s best to call in the experts.
Dishwasher Not Draining Properly
One of the most frequent calls we receive is for dishwashers that won’t drain. If you open the door after a cycle and find a pool of dirty water sitting at the bottom, you’re likely dealing with a drainage issue. A clogged filter, a blocked or kinked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump can cause this. Sometimes, obstructions in the sump or a malfunctioning check valve can also be the culprits.
To start troubleshooting, inspect the drain and filter for any food particles or debris. Make sure the drain hose isn’t twisted or blocked. If these areas are clear and the problem persists, it could be an internal component failure—best handled by a professional providing dishwasher repair in the UK.
Dishwasher Clogged or Backed Up
A clogged dishwasher doesn’t just affect drainage—it also severely impacts cleaning performance. You may notice water pooling inside, strange noises, or dishes that remain dirty after a complete wash. The first place to check is the filter at the bottom of the machine. If it’s blocked with food debris, give it a thorough clean under warm running water.
Next, remove the spray arms and clean out any blockages, making sure they can spin freely. If the issue persists after cleaning the filter and arms, the problem may lie with the circulation pump or internal drainage system. In such cases, it’s best to contact your local dishwasher repair service to avoid further damage.
Dishwasher Leaks During Operation
A leaking dishwasher can quickly become a serious issue, especially if it causes water damage to flooring or cabinetry. Leaks are often caused by worn or cracked door seals, damaged hoses, or faulty pump seals. Using the wrong detergent—such as regular washing-up liquid—can also result in excessive suds that overflow during the cycle.
Start by inspecting the door gasket for signs of wear or splitting. If the seal looks damaged, it may need to be replaced. Check that your detergent is suitable for automatic dishwashers and avoid overloading the racks. If leaks persist, book an inspection with a trained technician. Our UK-based dishwasher repair team can diagnose the fault and provide a lasting fix.
Unpleasant Smells from the Dishwasher
Foul odors emanating from your dishwasher typically indicate a buildup of food residue, grease, or trapped water. Over time, filters and seals can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned regularly.
To eliminate bad smells, start by removing and cleaning the filter with warm, soapy water. Use a soft cloth and a mix of vinegar and water to wipe down the door seals and interior walls. You can also run an empty hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of baking soda to freshen up the system. If the odor returns shortly after cleaning, it may indicate a more serious issue with drainage or ventilation.
Dishes Not Getting Clean
Few things are more frustrating than opening your dishwasher to find dirty or streaky dishes. This problem could be caused by blocked spray arms, a malfunctioning pump, low water pressure, or even user error in loading the racks.
To improve results, avoid overcrowding the dishwasher and ensure dishes aren’t blocking the spray arms. Clean the arms regularly and use a high-quality rinse aid. The water temperature should be at least 50–60°C to break down grease and food particles effectively. If the problem continues, a professional technician can inspect the pump and valves for faults.
Dishwasher Making Loud or Strange Noises
A noisy dishwasher can be disruptive, especially in open-plan kitchens. Unusual sounds, such as grinding, buzzing, or rattling, are typically signs of internal issues. This could be due to debris caught in the pump, worn motor bearings, or a damaged wash pump.
Stop using the appliance immediately to prevent further damage. Our team offers dishwasher repairs across the UK, and we’ll quickly identify the source of the noise and carry out a targeted repair or replacement.
Need Dishwasher Repairs in the UK?
Whether you’re based in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Bristol, or any other part of the UK, our experienced technicians are here to help. We offer same-day and next-day service, transparent pricing, and long-lasting repairs for all major dishwasher brands.
Don’t let dishwasher problems disrupt your home. Contact Applanco Appliance Repair today for professional, fast and affordable dishwasher repair services in the United Kingdom.
