Dishwasher has been an integral part of our lives for quite some time now. Whether you are experimenting with a new cake recipe or just done with a big family dinner, this appliance is always there to quickly clean up the mess with its multiple tips, tricks, and hygiene benefits.
Unfortunately, there comes a frustrating time when the dishwasher appears to be running but will not fill with water. But there’s no need to worry too much about it.
If you notice your dishwasher not getting water, there are a few simple reasons behind it. Keep reading to learn some possible reasons your dishwasher may not be getting water and potential solutions you can try before calling for professional help.
Why is my dishwasher not getting water?
Here are some of the most common reasons related to various dishwasher parts causing your dishwasher not to get water.
1. Drain hose is not positioned properly
To ensure your dishwasher functions correctly, position the loop at the end of the drain hose at least 20 inches above the floor or subfloor. Failure to do so could lead to siphoning issues.
Connect the drain hose to the waste tee or disposal inlet, ensuring it is at least 20 inches above the floor to guarantee proper tub filling.
2. Dishwasher drain open or unlatched
If the dishwasher door is open or not securely latched, it will hinder water filling and trigger a flashing START/RESUME indicator light, indicating this issue.
To resolve this, ensure the dishwasher door is closed properly, and then press the START/RESUME button to resume the cycle seamlessly.
To prevent the dishwasher from failing to start and necessitating a reset, it's advisable to steer clear of leaving the door open or unlatched.
3. Water supply valve is closed
Ensure your dishwasher can fill by opening the water supply valve. Find the valve in your kitchen and turn it open to allow unobstructed water to flow through the supply line into the dishwasher.
4. Overfill protection float is obstructed
The dishwasher's overfill protection float needs to be properly positioned for it to fill correctly. This float, commonly located in the front right corner in certain models, prevents overfilling. If newer models encounter filling issues, it's advisable to have them inspected by a professional.
Locate the float and check for obstructions by moving it up and down to see if it moves freely. Remove the obstructions as needed.
Dishwasher top rack not getting water
If your dishwasher's top rack isn't receiving water, it may be due to a problem with the spray arm. Mineral deposits from hard water can accumulate on dishwasher parts like spray arms, affecting their function.
To combat this, it is recommended that the dishwasher be cleaned regularly with a high-quality and reliable dishwasher cleaner, such as Finish Dishwasher Cleaner, once a month.
Additionally, improper loading can impede the spray arms' effectiveness. Ensure that no items obstruct the spray arms' rotation.
Find out how to load your dishwasher properly for optimum cleaning. From rinsing to not overloading to stacking your kitchenware in the best spot, we cover best practices.
Adjusting the top rack to accommodate taller items in the bottom rack can also help ensure the spray arms' unrestricted movement.
