Why Do Dishwashers Break Down, and How to Choose a Reliable One?

A dishwasher is an indispensable assistant in the kitchen, significantly simplifying the daily routine. But, like any equipment, it is subject to breakdowns. Why can even expensive models fail after a few years? What factors affect reliability, and how to choose a truly suitable model? Answers to these questions will help not only extend the service life of the device, but also avoid unnecessary expenses on Bosh, LG, Whirlpool appliance repair or maintenance of other brands.

Parts of a Dishwasher That Are at Risk

A dishwasher consists of many components, each of which performs an important function in the washing process. However, over time, some parts are especially susceptible to wear and tear. Let’s consider which parts of the device most often fail and require attention.

Pump

The pump sometimes overheats, and its internal parts can become deformed, causing the blades to cling to the body. The pump overheats even more, causing the electrical winding to melt. If the element stops rotating and cannot be repaired, it will have to be replaced with a new one.

Heating element

There may be several reasons for the breakdown of the heating element:

1. Hard water. Because of it, scale forms on the heating element, preventing heat transfer. To avoid this, it is necessary to soften the water with special means.
2. Problems with electricity. If the voltage fluctuates all the time, the heating element may fail. Malfunction in the temperature regulator. In this case, the heating element may simply overheat.

The Body of the Dishwasher

Sometimes it starts to leak. Of course, you can try to repair the dishwasher yourself, but there is a high probability that you will only make the situation worse and can injure yourself. Therefore, it is best to contact Spark Service PRO specialists who specialize in appliance repair.

Why Do Dishwashers Break Down?

A dishwasher consists of many components, each of which performs an important function in the washing process. However, over time, some parts are particularly susceptible to wear and tear. Let’s consider which parts of the device most often fail and require attention:

1. The drain pipe is clogged or incorrectly positioned. A clogged pipe prevents dirty water from draining normally into the sewer. It is necessary to check the mesh installed on the drain in the dishwasher and make sure that it is not clogged. It is also worth looking at the location of the hose that connects the dishwasher to the water outlet. If possible, inspect the hose from the inside and check for fatty deposits. If there are any, the hose needs to be cleaned.
2. Power outages. The dishwasher must be properly connected to the power source, and the device must not be used at low voltage.
3. Poor quality detergent. It may not dissolve food residues and clog the drain pipe. This damages the pump and the sealing rubber. Always use only proven detergents; do not skimp on this. Usually, most manufacturers recommend certain products in the operating instructions. Sometimes, they even include the necessary detergent in the dishwasher kit.
4. Loading too many dishes. Here, it makes sense to draw an analogy with the subway, when too many people are trying to get on the train during rush hour. Some sometimes pass their stations because they simply cannot get off. The same is true here. Some dishes simply do not receive the necessary care, so they remain dirty. 

By the way, sometimes the dishwasher is loaded with items that are not intended for washing in the dishwasher. Therefore, you should always read the instructions to see if this or that dish can be placed in the dishwasher, and follow basic rules.

Your main task is to maintain the functionality of the dishwasher. This can only be done with proper operation and careful maintenance. No equipment will last long if it is not handled correctly. In most cases, the device fails only due to improper handling.

What to Look for When Choosing a Dishwasher?

First, you need to understand for what purposes you need a dishwasher. This will make it easier to decide on the size and space for it. For example, if you live alone, you don’t need a large-sized device, but if you have a large family, you need to look at more capacious models.

If you want to replace an old dishwasher with a new one, then the choice is obvious — you need to choose a device of the same size so that you don’t have to change the layout for the sake of one device.

Choosing a built-in or freestanding dishwasher — here, everything depends only on your preferences. Of course, built-in ones are more popular today:

Compact dishwashers

These can even be placed on the table, but they are also suitable for under-counter installation. This is an ideal option for studios.

Narrow dishwashers

They are placed on the floor, but they also do not take up much space, so you can use them in an apartment of any size, but for large families, such equipment is not suitable (you will have to wash the dishes in several stages).

Full-size dishwashers

An ideal option for a large family and a spacious apartment. Such a dishwasher holds about 12 sets of dishes. If we talk about the quality of the dishwasher mechanisms, then they, as a rule, depend on the brand. The main thing to remember: a very cheap device will never be of high quality and durable.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the causes of dishwasher breakdowns and a competent approach to choosing equipment is the key to its long and stable operation. You should pay attention not only to the brand and price, but also to the characteristics, materials, user reviews, and operating conditions. And if malfunctions occur, in particular in dishwashers of the Bosh, LG, or Whirlpool brands, you should contact the proven technicians, like Spark Service PRO, which provides high-quality appliance repair services. This will extend the life of the device and maintain its efficiency.