A dishwasher door that won’t close not only messes up the seamless look of your kitchen cabinets but also stops your appliance from cleaning dishes properly.
There could be various reasons for this issue, like problems with the incorrect door spring tension, dishwasher leveling, or broken or damaged door latches.
But fret not! This article will address the 4 most common reasons a dishwasher door won’t close properly and provide helpful troubleshooting tips.
Common reasons a dishwasher door won’t close
A dishwasher door failing to close or latch properly can be frustrating, hindering your ability to clean dishes effectively. Let's explore the most prevalent reasons for a malfunctioning dishwasher door:
1. Incorrect door spring tension:
If your dishwasher door doesn't close or latch properly, it could be due to incorrectly set door spring tension. This means the tension on the door springs isn't sufficient to keep the door closed. You can address this issue by adjusting the spring tension for a tighter seal on the door.
2. Dishwasher not leveled
If your dishwasher wasn't properly leveled during installation, it may result in the door not closing or latching correctly. To resolve this issue, try leveling your dishwasher.
Inspect your appliance for signs of misalignment. It should fit snugly within the cabinet; the door won't seal properly if the tub opening isn't square. Your dishwasher needs support from its leveling legs and rear wheels for proper operation, ensuring it sits flat on the floor.
Follow these steps to level your dishwasher:
- Before sliding it into its final position, route the power cord, water supply, and drain into the cabinet opening.
- If your appliance includes one, ensure the insulation blanket isn't hindering the dishwasher from fitting properly in the cabinet opening.
- Align the front of the dishwasher door panel with the cabinet doors' front and ensure the leveling legs firmly touch the floor.
- Check the appliance's level at the front panel with the dishwasher door closed. If needed, adjust the leveling legs until the dishwasher is positioned correctly.
3. Objects Lodged in Dishwasher Door Seal and Tub
If you're experiencing difficulty closing your dishwasher door, it could indicate an obstruction between the door seal and the tub.
- Ensure no items like utensils have become wedged between the dishwasher door's seal and the tub during or after loading.
- Inspect both racks for any items that may be protruding and causing obstruction. Remove any items extending beyond the rack.
- Thoroughly check for large food particles around the door seal and clean the affected parts of the dishwasher as needed.
- If you cannot dislodge the object, consult a professional technician.
4. Broken or damaged door latch
A broken or damaged door latch is a common reason for a dishwasher door not closing properly. Inspect the latch components for signs of wear or damage, such as bent hinges or a misaligned strike plate.
