14 Reasons Why Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Washing – {How to Fix It}

Last Updated on August 24, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not washing dishes as it should, don’t worry – you’re not alone. This is a common problem that many people experience with their dishwashers. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common causes of this issue and how to fix them. We will also provide some tips on how to keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

Related: 9 Dishwasher Brands To Avoid and 3 Most Reliable Brands

Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Washing: How to Fix It

1. The door.

The door is the most important part of the dishwasher. It is what keeps the water and soap inside the dishwasher and it also helps to seal in the heat so that the dishes get clean.

If your dishwasher door is not working properly, then it will not be able to do its job correctly. There are a few things that you can do to fix a dishwasher door that is not working properly.

First, you need to check the seal around the door. If there is a gap in the seal, then water and soap can escape from the dishwasher. You can try to tighten the screws that hold the seal in place or you can replace the seal entirely.

Second, you need to make sure that the door is properly latched. If the door is not latched, then it will not be able to seal properly. You can try to adjust the latch or you can replace it entirely.

Third, you need to check the hinges of the dishwasher door. If the hinges are loose, then the door will not be able to seal properly. You can try to tighten the screws that hold the hinges in place or you can replace the hinges entirely.

Fourth, you need to check the springs of the dishwasher door. If the springs are worn out, then the door will not be able to seal properly. You can try to replace the springs entirely.

Fifth, you need to check the gasket of the dishwasher door. If the gasket is damaged, then the door will not be able to seal properly. You can try to replace the gasket entirely.

2. Water supply.

That is the most likely problem if your Whirlpool dishwasher is not washing. Check to make sure the water supply valves are turned on all the way.

If they are, then the problem could be with the float switch. This switch signals to the dishwasher that there is enough water to start washing. If it is defective, it will prevent the dishwasher from starting.

Why does it fail?

There are a few reasons why the float switch might fail. The most common reason is that it becomes clogged with dirt and grease. Over time, this can cause the switch to become less sensitive, until it finally fails altogether.

If you think your float switch might be the problem, you can try cleaning it. First, remove the dishwasher from its power source. Then, locate the float switch and unscrew it from its housing.

Use a toothpick or other sharp object to clean out any dirt or debris that might be clogging the switch. Once you’ve cleaned it, screw the switch back into place and turn on the power. Try running a cycle to see if the dishwasher works.

How to prevent it?

You can prevent the float switch from failing by regularly cleaning your dishwasher. This will help to remove any dirt and grease that could clog the switch.

You should also make sure to regularly check the float switch for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice anything, be sure to replace the switch right away.

3. Power supply.

Check the circuit breaker or fuse, and reset if necessary. If your dishwasher is hardwired to the electrical system, be sure to shut off the power at the circuit breaker before continuing.

Look for a loose or damaged wire behind the control panel. If you find one, repair or replace it as needed. Check for loose connections at the main terminal block. If any are loose, tighten them with a wrench.

4. Water Inlet Valve.

If your dishwasher is not washing, one possible reason is that the water inlet valve is not working. This valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher, and if it is not functioning properly, the dishwasher will not be able to get enough water to clean the dishes.

Why does it fail?

There are a few reasons why the water inlet valve might fail. One possibility is that something is blocking the valve, such as a piece of dirt or debris. Another possibility is that the valve itself is damaged and needs to be replaced.

How to fix it?

If you think that the water inlet valve is the problem, you will need to take a look at it and see if there is anything blocking it. If there is, you can try to remove the obstruction and see if that fixes the problem. If the valve itself is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one.

5. Water Pump Belt.

The water pump belt is located under the dishwasher. It is a black rubber belt that goes around the dishwasher’s pump.

If your dishwasher is not washing, one possible reason is that the water pump belt has broken. To check this, open up your dishwasher and look for the water pump (it will be a circular device with a black rubber belt going around it).

If the belt is broken, you will need to replace it. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself.

To replace the water pump belt, first disconnect your dishwasher from power. Then, remove the dishwasher’s access panel (this will be located under the dishwasher).

Once you have the access panel off, locate the water pump (it will be a circular device with a black rubber belt going around it). Next, remove the old belt and replace it with a new one. Finally, reattach the access panel and reconnect your dishwasher to power.

How to prevent it?

Inspect the water pump belt every few months to make sure it is not worn out or damaged. If you notice any damage, replace the belt immediately.

If your dishwasher’s water pump belt breaks, don’t worry – it is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself. Just be sure to disconnect your dishwasher from power before beginning the repair, and be sure to inspect the belt regularly to prevent future problems.

6. Center Wash Arm Assembly.

About this part: The center wash arm assembly is located beneath the center of the dishwasher and sprays water up through the spinning upper wash arm to clean your dishes.

If your center wash arm becomes clogged with food or grease, it will not be able to properly spray water and clean your dishes.

To clean your center wash arm:

  • Remove the center wash arm assembly by unscrewing the screw at the base.
  • Rinse the center wash arm under warm water to remove any food or grease.
  • Dry the center wash arm and reattach it by screwing it back in place.

7. Lower Wash Arm.

The lower wash arm is located underneath the bottom of the dishwasher and is responsible for spraying water onto the dishes during the washing cycle.

If your dishwasher is not washing properly, it could be because the lower wash arm is clogged with food or grease.

To clean the lower wash arm, you will need to remove it from the dishwasher and then use a brush to clean off any debris that is blocking the holes. Once you have cleaned the lower wash arm, you can reinstall it and your dishwasher should be back to working properly.

8. Lower Wash Arm Assembly.

The lower wash arm assembly is located beneath the upper wash arm assembly. It is connected to the motor shaft with a retaining clip. The lower wash arm spins during the washing cycle and sprays water onto the dishwasher racks to clean the dishes.

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not washing properly, one possible cause could be a problem with the lower wash arm assembly. Before you begin any repair, be sure to disconnect the power to your dishwasher to avoid electrocution.

To check if the lower wash arm assembly is the problem, remove it from the dishwasher and inspect it for cracks or damage. If the lower wash arm is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

9. Upper Wash Arm Assembly.

This part is located on the upper spray arm of your dishwasher. It includes the wash arm and housing, and it sprays water to clean your dishes during the dishwashing cycle.

If your Whirlpool dishwasher isn’t washing properly, one possible cause could be a problem with the upper wash arm assembly. This assembly includes the wash arm and housing, and it sprays water to clean your dishes during the dishwashing cycle.

If you’re having trouble with your upper wash arm assembly, there are a few things you can try before you call a repairman. First, make sure that there is nothing blocking the path of the spray arm. If there is, remove it and see if that solves the problem.

Another thing you can try is cleaning the wash arm itself. Sometimes, food and other debris can build up on the arm and cause it to become clogged. To clean it, simply remove it from the dishwasher and rinse it off with water. If it’s still not working properly after that, you may need to replace it.

10. Circulation Pump.

The circulation pump sprays water from the dishwasher onto your dishes. If this part is not working, your dishes will not get clean.

To test whether the circulation pump is the issue, first check that there is water going into the dishwasher. If there is no water coming into the dishwasher, then the circulation pump is not receiving power and will need to be replaced. If there is water coming into the dishwasher, then the circulation pump is likely the issue.

Replacing the circulation pump is a pretty easy repair that you can do yourself. Just make sure to unplug the dishwasher before beginning any repairs. Then, follow these steps:

-Locate the circulation pump. It is usually located near the bottom of the dishwasher, near the motor.

-Remove the circulation pump by unscrewing it from its mount.

-Install the new circulation pump by screwing it into place.

-Turn on the dishwasher to test that the new pump is working properly. If your dishwasher is still not washing dishes correctly, then there may be another issue that needs to be repaired.

11. Circulation and Drain Pump Motor.

These motors are responsible for moving water through the dishwasher so if they’re not working correctly, it could explain why your aren’t getting clean. You can test the motors by opening up the dishwasher and checking for any debris that might be caught in them.

12. Pump and Motor Assembly.

The part includes the pump, motor, and impeller. The dishwasher pump circulates water through the spray arm.

If your dishwasher isn’t washing dishes properly, there are several things that could be causing the issue. One possibility is that the pump and motor assembly isn’t working correctly.

The pump and motor assembly is responsible for circulating water through the dishwasher spray arm. If this part isn’t working properly, it could be the reason why your dishes aren’t getting clean.

If you think that the pump and motor assembly might be to blame for your dishwasher problems, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue. First, make sure that there is no debris blocking the impeller. If the impeller is blocked, it can prevent the water from circulating properly.

Next, check to see if the motor is running. If the motor isn’t running, it could be a sign that it needs to be replaced. Finally, if the pump is running but the water isn’t circulating, it could be a sign that the pump needs to be replaced.

13. Wash Impeller.

The wash impeller is responsible for spraying water during the dishwashing cycle. If your dishwasher isn’t washing properly, it’s possible that the wash impeller is damaged or dirty and needs to be cleaned. Follow these steps to clean your dishwasher’s wash impeller:

First, remove the dishwasher’s lower rack and spray arm. Next, locate the wash impeller at the bottom of the dishwasher tub and remove any debris that may be blocking it. Finally, replace the spray arm and lower rack and run a test cycle to ensure that your dishwasher is now washing properly.

14. Upper Wash Arm Spinner.

The upper wash arm spinner is located on the top of the dishwasher and spins during the wash cycle to spray water onto the dishes. If your dishwasher is not washing properly, it may be due to a clogged upper wash arm spinner.

To clean the upper wash arm spinner:

  • Remove any debris from around the spinner.
  • Use a toothpick or other sharp object to clear any clogs from the spinner holes.
  • Rinse the area around the spinner clean and replace any parts that are damaged.

Related:

Whirlpool dishwasher not cleaning top rack?

There could be a few reasons why. Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes and solutions.

One possible reason your Whirlpool dishwasher isn’t cleaning the top rack is because the water pressure is too low.

Solution: clean the inlet screen and check that there are no kinks in the fill hose.

Another common issue is that the dishwasher isn’t getting hot enough.

Solution: run your water at the sink until it’s hot before starting the dishwasher cycle.

Whirlpool dishwasher not cleaning bottom rack?

If your Whirlpool dishwasher isn’t cleaning the bottom rack, there are a few possible causes. First, check to see if the spray arm at the bottom of the dishwasher is clean and clear of any obstructions. If it’s not, clean it and try again.

If that doesn’t solve the problem, it could be an issue with the water supply. Make sure the water supply valve is turned on all the way and that there’s no blockage in the line. If neither of those solutions works, you may need to call a professional for help.

Whirlpool dishwasher filling but not washing.

There are a few possible reasons why your Whirlpool dishwasher is filling but not washing. One possibility is that the dishwasher isn’t getting enough water. Check to make sure that the water supply line isn’t kinked or clogged, and that the water valve is turned on all the way.

Another possibility is that the dishwasher is not draining properly. Check to make sure that the drain hose isn’t kinked or clogged. If the problem persists, you may need to call a plumber to clear the drain line.

1. Circulation Pump.

The circulation pump forces water from the dishwasher tub through the spray arms. If there is no water flowing to the spray arms, check whether the circulation pump is working. To do this, open up your dishwasher and locate the circulation pump.

It will be a small, round, black object with a single wire running to it. Once you have located the circulation pump, check to see if it is working. If it is not, you will need to replace it.

2. Spray Arm.

The part is located under the upper dish rack and is responsible for spraying water during the wash cycle. If your dishwasher is filling but not washing, it’s likely because of a clogged

If your dishwasher spray arm is clogged, you’ll need to clean it to get your dishwasher working properly again. You can clean your spray arm by removing it and soaking it in a vinegar solution. Once your spray arm is clean, you can reattach it to your dishwasher and run a test cycle to see if it’s working properly.

3. Motor Replacement.

This is the part where you will need to replace the motor in your dishwasher. The first thing you will need to do is unplug the dishwasher from the power source. Next, you will need to remove the bottom panel of the dishwasher.

Once you have access to the motor, disconnect the wires and remove the old motor. To install the new motor, simply reverse the process. Be sure to reconnect all wires and plug the dishwasher back into the power source before testing it out.

Related: How Long Does a Dishwasher Run: The Average Duration of a Wash Cycle

Whirlpool dishwasher humming but not washing?

Here are some possible causes and solutions.

If your dishwasher is humming but not washing, it could be because the water supply is turned off or there is a kink in the fill hose. Another possibility is that the dishwasher isn’t getting enough water. To fix this, you can try running the water at the sink nearest to the dishwasher until it is hot, then turn on the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is still humming but not washing, it could be because the wash arm isn’t getting enough water. To fix this, you can remove the wash arm and clean out any debris that might be blocking the holes. You can also check to see if the wash arm is properly attached to the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is still humming but not washing, it could be because the drain hose is clogged. To fix this, you can remove the drain hose and clean out any debris that might be blocking it. You can also check to see if the drain hose is properly attached to the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is still humming but not washing, it could be because the dishwasher isn’t draining properly. To fix this, you can check the drain hose to see if it is clogged. You can also check to see if the dishwasher’s float switch is stuck in the “up” position. If so, you can try pushing it down with a paperclip.

If your dishwasher is still humming but not washing, it could be because there is something wrong with the dishwasher itself. If this is the case, you should call a qualified appliance repair person to come and take a look at it.

Conclusion

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not washing, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue. First, check to make sure that there is nothing blocking the spray arm. Next, clean the filters and make sure they are not clogged. Finally, run a test cycle with vinegar to see if that clears the problem. If none of these solutions work, you may need to call a repairman.

We hope this article was helpful in troubleshooting your Whirlpool dishwasher. For more appliance tips and tricks, be sure to check out our blog! Thanks for reading!