Do I Need to Replace My Leaking Dishwasher?

A dishwasher is an essential appliance in many homes. So, when your dishwasher leaks in Central Florida, it is important to understand common dishwasher issues. Read on for reasons why leaks happen and to answer the question, “Do I need to replace my leaking dishwasher?”

Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking?

• Failing Gasket Seal: The watertight seal around a dishwasher door keeps all that soapy water inside. These rubber gaskets can become dry, brittle, crack, or have food particles.

• Damaged, Stuck, or Clogged Spray Arm: The spray arm rotates and sprays water from the bottom of your dishwasher. Poorly loaded dishes or utensils can damage or dislodge the arm so it does not rotate properly.

• Faulty Float Switch: The float switch in your dishwasher maintains the right water level during wash cycles. Otherwise, the water level can get too high and leak on your kitchen floor.

• Loose or Damaged Drain Hose: The drain hose is how water empties from your dishwasher. Similar to the gasket seal, hose connections can crack or tear over time. A loose connection can cause water to leak onto the floor instead of through the sink drain.

• Open Valve: The water inlet valve is how water gets into your dishwasher. Once it lets the water in it should close completely. If it does not water can overfill the dishwasher.

• Worn Dishwasher Tub: Dishwashers work hard with chemicals and deposits in our water supply. These elements can cause corrosion in your dishwasher. If your dishwasher has this level of damage, it is time to replace your dishwasher.

• Unlevel Dishwasher: Dishwashers are designed to work on a level surface. If not level it is more likely for water to pool under your appliance. Appliance leveling legs can often correct this.

• Wrong Type or Amount of Detergent: Make sure that your dishes are free of dish soap and only use dishwasher detergent. Other types of soaps can bubble and place pressure against the seal.

Nearly all of the issues mentioned above can possibly be repaired except for the worn dishwasher tub. For help repairing, replacing, or determining the source of dishwasher and plumbing leaks, contact the Brevard’s Best experts today!