Source: https://www.maytag.com/blog/kitchen/dishwasher-not-cleaning.html
There are a few reasons why your dishwasher might not be cleaning effectively including a dirty filter, incorrect detergent, improper loading, or the wrong cycle or water temperature. If your dishwasher has been maintained according to the owner’s manual, it could be a simple reason and a quick fix.
1. DIRTY OR CLOGGED FILTER
Is your dishwasher leaving food residue or leaving your dishes feeling gritty? The cause could be a dirty or clogged filter. Cleaning the filters periodically helps keep the dishwasher working its best. The filters can be found at the bottom center of your dishwasher. Over time dishwasher filters can get clogged from regular use, and cleaning the dishwasher filter is a simple fix that will get your dishwasher back to its normal cleaning power.
Select Maytag® dishwasher models feature Dual Power Filtration. With Dual Power Filtration, your dishwasher filters out and chops up any food in its path, so there’s no need for routine maintenance.
2. INCORRECT DISHWASHER DETERGENT
Only automatic dishwasher detergents should be used in your dishwasher. Using pre-measured dishwasher detergent tablets and pacs rather than powder, liquid or gel detergents can help reduce film on your dishes. Using tablets and pacs, such as these from affresh®, can help reduce or eliminate white film on your dishes over time.
Rinse aid can help reduce the buildup of hard water mineral deposits. Add rinse aid for optimal washing and drying performance.
3. IMPROPER LOADING
If your dishwasher doesn’t clean your dishes thoroughly, it could be something as simple as improper loading. If you are not loading the dishwasher properly, the spray arms may not be able to effectively reach your dishes. If the dishes are overlapping or not placed at an angle, they might block the water and won’t be cleaned thoroughly. Loading the dishwasher correctly might be the easy fix you need to see better results.
4. WRONG CYCLE
If your dishes are heavily soiled a heavier dishwasher cycle might be required to effectively clean them. If your dishwasher has an auto cycle, it will sense the soil on the dishes and optimize the cycle. A high temperature cycle would also be beneficial if you know your dishes might need some extra attention, like burnt pans.
Select Maytag® Dishwashers feature a Powerblast Cycle® that uses high-pressure jets, increased water temperatures and hot steam to scour away stubborn messes.
5. INCORRECT WATER TEMPERATURE
For best dishwashing results, water should be about 120°F as it enters the dishwasher. Hot water dissolves and activates the dishwashing detergent. Hot water can also help dissolve grease on dishes and help reduce streaks on glasses.
If the water temperature is too low, you might find that your dishwasher leaves residue. If the water temperature is too hot, some food particles can be harder to remove and certain detergent ingredients may not function.
DIY FIXES IF YOUR DISHWASHER IS NOT CLEANING DISHES PROPERLY
If your dishwasher is not cleaning your dishes properly, you might be able to remedy the problem yourself once you are familiar with how a dishwasher works. Always consult your owner’s manual for product-specific information and troubleshooting, and if you are unable to fix the problem, schedule service with a certified repairperson.
