When you don’t hear the familiar sounds of water spraying and find your dishes not clean after cycle ends, your dishwasher isn’t functioning optimally. Why is my GE dishwasher not spraying properly? If something blocks the spray arms’ rotation, water may not reach every item. Troubleshoot dishwasher spraying problems with these likely causes and solutions.
GE Dishwasher Not Spraying Water? Check These 4 Potential Problems.
While spray arm issues are typically responsible for a GE dishwasher not spraying water, part failures and water supply problems are also factors. Here’s how to determine what’s going on when your dishwasher doesn’t spray water appropriately.
Dishwasher Water Supply Problem
The first step in troubleshooting a GE dishwasher not spraying water is to make sure it’s receiving water. Without adequate and consistent water access from your home supply, the dishwasher won’t be able to fill, spray, or clean dishes sufficiently. If you don’t hear water flowing into the tub, open the door to see if it’s filling the bottom. If no water, or very little, is present, there’s likely a water supply issue.
Make sure your dishwasher is properly connected to your home water supply and that its valve is turned on. Check the dishwasher’s water supply line for leaks that can restrict water flow, replacing the supply line if necessary. Lastly, make sure the dishwasher is receiving adequate water pressure. If the pressure is less than 20 psi, your home’s water pressure may need to be increased.
Blocked Spray Arm
Is your new GE dishwasher not spraying water like it should? It’s possible that something is blocking the spray arm’s rotation. Overloading the top rack with too many items may cause one to hang beneath the rack, preventing the spray arm from rotating. Similarly, tall items in the bottom rack can also interfere with spray arm rotation. If you hear a thumping or banging sound during a dishwashing cycle, the spray arm may be blocked.
Avoid overloading racks with items that can hang below the top rack and impede the spray arm’s motion. When loading tall items, place them around the perimeter of the bottom rack so they don’t come in contact with the spray arm. Consider handwashing oversize items or washing them in a separate load to avoid blockages.
Broken or Clogged Spray Arm
Are your dishwasher spray arms clogged or broken? This common problem can significantly reduce spraying power. If the spray arms repeatedly bang against dirty dishes and cookware, they can suffer holes or cracks. If you find your GE dishwasher not spraying water, examine the spray arms for damage that can reduce their spraying ability. A broken spray arm must be replaced.
If the spray arm isn’t damaged, check it for clogs that can prevent water from spraying. Each spray arm has small holes that emit water during wash cycles. These holes can be prone to clogs from hard water buildup, food particles, or other debris that limit water flow. Consult your user manual to make sure the spray arms on your model dishwasher are removable. Removing and washing them should be part of your regular dishwasher cleaning routine.
Here’s how to clean dishwasher spray arm to improve performance:
- Remove the upper and lower spray arms according to your owner’s manual instructions.
- Scrub the spray arm with a sponge and warm, soapy water.
- For hard water stains, soak the arms in the sink with warm water and a few drops of white vinegar.
- Unclog spray armholes with a pipe cleaner or straightened wire hanger.
- Replace the upper and lower spray arms.
Broken Dishwasher Inlet Valve
The inlet valve opens and closes, allowing water to flow to the dishwasher from your home supply. If one of the valve’s components breaks, it can restrict water flow. Signs of a faulty water inlet valve include a dishwasher not rinsing, spraying, or filling sufficiently.
If you suspect that the water inlet valve is broken, it should be assessed and replaced with a professional GE dishwasher repair.
The technicians at Dependable Repair Services can fix a GE dishwasher not spraying water with a prompt and professional repair. Schedule your service with us today!
