Kenmore Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? Causes and Fixes
Quick answer: Clean the filter and spray arms, and run the tap hot before starting. If dishes are still dirty, check the inlet valve and wash pump.
If dishes come out gritty or still dirty, the dishwasher isn’t moving enough hot, clean water. Check these in order.
Safety first: unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) before you open any panel. If you’re not comfortable testing parts, call a qualified technician.
1. Clean the filter
A dirty filter starves the wash pump of water. Rinse and scrub it.
2. Clear the spray arms
Remove the spray arms and rinse out the holes. Make sure they spin freely and nothing in the racks blocks them.
3. Hot water
Run the kitchen tap until the water is hot before you start a cycle, so the dishwasher fills with hot water from the start. Water around 120°F cleans best.
4. Detergent and rinse aid
Use fresh detergent and keep the rinse aid filled. Old powder clumps and doesn’t dissolve.
5. Water inlet valve
If the dishwasher doesn’t fill enough, the inlet valve may be weak or clogged.
6. Wash pump or motor
If you hear the motor but little spraying, the wash pump or motor may be failing.
Find the right part
See our Kenmore dishwasher parts guide. If water stays in the tub, read Kenmore dishwasher not draining.
Where to buy Kenmore dishwasher parts
Always order by your full model number. Two good places to buy:
- Amazon – carries many common parts, but check the listing names your model number
- PartSelect – search by model number and see your model’s parts diagram
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Official help for this problem
Check your model’s manual. Steps, error codes and parts can differ between models, so your manual has the final word. Find your Kenmore manual by searching your full model number on Sears PartsDirect.
About this guide. Written by Daniel Hayes for AppliancePartFinder.com. It covers common causes, in the order that’s quickest and cheapest to check. It’s general information, not a substitute for your owner’s manual or a qualified technician. Appliance designs vary, so always confirm a part by your model number before you buy.
Spotted something wrong, or found a fix we missed? Let us know at support@appliancepartfinder.com and we’ll review the guide.