A dishwasher that doesn't work properly is a daily frustration. Most problems come down to a few common causes — some you can fix yourself, some need a technician.
Dishwasher Not Draining
Standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle is the most common complaint.
Most likely causes:
- Clogged filter — the number one cause. The filter at the bottom of the tub catches food debris and needs monthly cleaning.
- Garbage disposal blockage — if your dishwasher drains into the disposal, a blocked disposal backs water up
- Kinked drain hose — check under the sink
- Failed drain pump — if filter and hose are clear, the pump may have failed
Easiest fix first: Remove the bottom rack, twist out the filter, and rinse it under warm water. This resolves the problem in the majority of cases.
Still draining poorly?
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Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes Properly
If dishes are coming out dirty or with food residue:
- Clogged spray arms — the small holes in the spray arms get blocked with mineral deposits.
- Wrong detergent amount — too little detergent, or using tablet detergent in a machine that needs powder or gel
- Water temperature too low — dishwashers need water at least 120°F to clean and sanitize effectively
- Overloaded rack — items blocking the spray arms prevent water from reaching everything
Photo of dishwasher spray arm — showing how to remove and clean it
Dishwasher Leaving White Spots or Film
White spots on glasses and dishes are almost always caused by hard water mineral deposits. San Francisco and Marin County have moderately hard water.
- Use a rinse aid — it dramatically reduces spotting
- Run a monthly cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner tablet
- Consider a water softener if the problem is severe
Dishwasher Leaking
Water on the floor in front of the dishwasher usually comes from:
- Worn door gasket — the rubber seal around the door has cracked or hardened
- Loose door latch — the door isn't sealing fully
- Cracked spray arm — water sprays at the wrong angle and hits the door seal
When to Call a Professional
Clean the filter and spray arms yourself. Drain pump replacement, door gasket replacement, control board issues, and water inlet valve failures require a technician.
FixWell Appliance Repair serves San Francisco and Marin County — same-day service available.
FAQ
Is it normal to have a little water at the bottom of the dishwasher?
A very small amount under the filter is normal. Visible standing water covering the filter is not.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
Once a month is ideal, especially if you run the dishwasher daily.
How much does dishwasher repair cost in San Francisco?
Most repairs range from $220–$310. Filter cleaning is free — pump replacement costs more but is far cheaper than a new dishwasher.