If you notice that your dishwasher is not working the way it should, then you may be able to make a repair yourself, depending on the problem. In some cases, the issue may be as simple as changing a rubber washer or seal. This may be the case when the washer arm seal or bearing ring is broken or damaged. Keep reading to learn about some signs that indicate that you are experiencing the issue and also find out how to solve the problem.
What Are Signs Of The Problem?
The dishwasher wash arm is the spinning device that sits on the bottom of your dishwasher. The arm has several different spray holes, and water is forced out of the openings as the arm moves around. The movement of the arm helps to force water in many different directions so all of your dishes are rinsed with a high speed spray of water.
The wash arm sits on a metal rod, and the rod is attached to a motor. At the very bottom of the rod sits a rubber washer, and the washer keeps water from seeping down through the base of the dishwasher. This washer can break. If it does, then you will likely notice water leaking from underneath the dishwasher. Also, the broken washer may get stuck around the base of the metal rod and keep the arm from spinning. You may hear a squealing noise as the arm tries to spin and you might also see some dishes that remain dirty since the washer arm is no longer rinsing all the dishes.
How Is The Issue Fixed?
If you notice a leaking dishwasher, dirty dishes, and squealing noises, then inspect and change the washer arm seal. Unplug your dishwasher and remove the trays from the appliance. Locate the spray arm and look for a small and round cover in the middle of the arm. Twist the cover off and pull the spray arm up and out of the dishwasher. This will reveal the metal rod and a small base that the spray arm sat upon. Twist off the base at this time.
Once the base is removed, you should see a small, round rubber washer. Look to see if this part has a break or crack in it or if it is worn out. If it is, then remove the washer and take it to your local appliance repair parts store so a replacement can be purchased. If the washer is not worn out, then the spray motor or the pump may be broken. Speak with an appliance repair person or a dishwasher repair specialist for assistance.
