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Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? Fixes for Hard Water
Dirty or cloudy dishes usually come from a clogged filter, blocked spray arms, poor loading, or hard-water mineral buildup. If water is not hot or the dishwasher is not filling enough, a part may have failed.
Safety first: unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before touching anything inside, and shut off the water or gas supply where it applies. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside.
Likely causes
- Clogged filter
- Spray arm holes blocked by food or mineral scale
- Dishes loaded so they block the spray arms or detergent door
- Hard-water film and scale
- Water not hot enough at the start of the cycle
- Low fill from a failing inlet valve, or a weak wash pump
Safe owner checks
- Clean the filter.
- Remove the spray arms and clear the holes with a toothpick, then rinse.
- Make sure the spray arms spin freely and nothing tall blocks them.
- Run the kitchen faucet until the water is hot before starting a cycle.
- Use rinse aid and fresh detergent. Try a dishwasher cleaner for scale.
- Check that the detergent door opens fully during the cycle.
When to call a pro
- Cleaning and loading changes do not help
- The dishwasher is not filling, or water is not getting hot
- You hear grinding or the wash motor is weak
- There is a leak or an error code
Repair or replace?
Cleaning fixes most cases. An inlet valve or wash pump can be worth replacing on a newer dishwasher.
Repair cost
Call for a quote. Costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop. Ask for any diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis.
Local facts
Where to take an old appliance, rebates, licensing rules and local shops differ by state and city. Each Local Help Stations state site keeps those facts on its own pages, with official sources.
Other dishwasher guides
FAQ
Why are my dishes still dirty?
Common causes are a clogged filter, blocked spray arms, poor loading, hard-water buildup, or water that is not hot enough.
Why are my glasses cloudy?
Cloudy glasses are often hard-water film. Rinse aid and a dishwasher cleaner usually help.
Should I pre-rinse dishes?
Scrape food off, but heavy rinsing is not required for most modern dishwashers. Do keep the filter clean.
Last checked: . Written by Local Help Stations.