Dishwasher repair

How dishwashers actually work.

Understanding the cycles inside your dishwasher makes it easier to spot what's gone wrong. Here's the short version — and the common failures we fix every week.

The 5 cycles

From fill to dry — what's happening inside.

1. The Fill Cycle

  • Ironically, this cycle usually starts by draining the standing water the dishwasher keeps to protect the seals in its system.
  • The dishwasher then sends power to the solenoid in its water inlet valve, allowing water to flow in via your home's water pressure.

2. The Rinse Cycle

  • A timer or sensor tells the control board that the fill cycle is done and the rinse cycle begins.
  • The circulation motor is powered and the spray arms (or water dispersion system) start to run.
  • Most washers begin heating the water as soon as there is enough water in the appliance.

3. Wash Cycle

  • Usually about 15 minutes in, the soap dispenser opens and the wash cycle begins.
  • This can be triggered by heat and a wax motor, rotation of the spray arms, or a timer and solenoid.

4. Final Rinse Cycle

  • The soapy water is drained and fresh water is allowed in once more.
  • The circulation pump sends that fresh water back through the dispersion system.

5. Dry Cycle

  • If your washer has a heated dry cycle, the heating element warms up and heats the air inside.
  • A vent may open via a solenoid or wax motor, depending on your model.
Common problems

What usually goes wrong.

If any of these sound familiar, send us a message — most dishwasher visits wrap up the same day.

Faulty Inlet Valve

The inlet valve controls water entering your dishwasher. It can fail in several ways — sticking shut so the unit won't fill, leaking, or letting water through when it shouldn't.

Leak or Puddle Under the Unit

A puddle forming under your dishwasher is usually from a leaky hose, a bad connection, or a worn door seal.

Won't Drain or Won't Start

Drain pumps clog, control boards fail, and door latches wear out. We diagnose the actual cause before quoting any work.

Dishwasher acting up?

Tell us what it's doing — we'll get it sorted, often the same day.