Why Regular Dishwasher Servicing Matters
It's easy to think of your dishwasher as one of those "set and forget" appliances. But just because it sounds like it's working fine doesn't mean it's running at peak performance, or that it won't surprise you with a breakdown right before a dinner party. Like any hardworking machine, your dishwasher needs a bit of love to stay in top shape.
In this post, we'll bust a few myths, explain why dishwasher servicing matters, and walk you through what should be checked and how often.
Do dishwashers need servicing?
Short answer: yes, they do.
Even if your dishwasher seems to be working, it could be quietly collecting food residue, grease, and mineral deposits. Over time, this build-up can slow down performance and cause wear and tear on key parts.
Here's what can happen if you skip regular dishwasher maintenance:
- Clogged filters slow down drainage and leave food bits on dishes
- Mineral build-up affects spray pressure and water flow
- Worn seals lead to leaks and water damage
- Overworked motors can burn out when small parts fail
A dishwasher service can catch these issues early, saving you from both unexpected repairs and higher water and electricity bills. Think of it as a health check for your kitchen's MVP.
How often should you service a dishwasher?
If you're using your dishwasher daily (or close to it), an annual service is a solid rule of thumb. For larger households, you might want to check things every 6–9 months.
On the flip side, if you only run the machine a few times a week, you might stretch it a bit longer, but still aim for at least once a year.
Signs you need to service your dishwasher:
- Dishes come out cloudy or still dirty
- Water is pooling at the bottom
- Strange smells or noises
- Cycles are taking longer than usual
These are early warnings that parts like filters, spray arms, or pumps may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
What gets checked during a dishwasher service?
Giving your dishwasher a bit of DIY attention or getting a pro in? Either way, here's what should be on the service checklist:
1. Filters
The fine and coarse filters trap food particles until they clog up. Clean monthly and replace if damaged.
2. Spray arms
Mineral deposits or food gunk can block spray holes. Remove and rinse thoroughly. Cracked arms should be swapped out.
3. Door seals and gaskets
Inspect for mould, cracking, or hardening. A bad seal leads to leaks and poor drying performance.
4. Drain pump
Check for obstructions like bones, broken glass, or food scraps. A failing pump might hum but won't drain properly.
5. Racks and rollers
Wobbly racks or missing rollers can damage dishes and make loading a pain. These are easy to replace with OEM parts.
6. Heating element
If dishes come out wet or greasy, the heating element may be underperforming. Professional help might be needed here.
Tip: You don't need to be an appliance guru to do basic checks. Just follow your manufacturer's manual and use the right parts
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Keeping on top of regular dishwasher servicing is what keeps your machine running smoothly for years to come. A bit of maintenance now means cleaner dishes, fewer surprises, and no more wondering why the cycle didn't do its job.
Whether it's a worn-out seal, cracked spray arm, or broken rack wheel, WWSpares stocks replacement parts for all major dishwasher brands. Not sure what you need? Our team can help you find the exact part for your model—so your dishwasher keeps performing at its best. Get in touch with us. We'll help you find the right part and keep your dishwasher in top nick
