A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances you can have. It can save tons of time in clearing away dirty dishes. Just like all appliances, however, it will eventually malfunction and fail to work properly. Sometimes, replacing the dishwasher is a better investment than repairing the same unit, especially if it’s older. Look for the following warning signs that you’ll need to replace your dishwasher.
The Door Doesn’t Close Properly
A dishwasher whose door does not close properly is one of the more obvious signs that the unit might have become warped after so much use. Before you determine this, make sure that there is no dish or utensil blocking your path, or that it doesn’t simply need a latch repair. While this sign alone shouldn’t persuade you to replace your dishwasher, it can still indicate other potential issues.
It Isn’t Energy Efficient
A newer, energy-efficient model is far more beneficial, as it uses less water per washing cycle, cleans dishes better, and is much quieter than an older, non-efficient dishwasher. If your dishwasher is more than 10 years old, switch to an Energy Star model.
The Dishes Aren’t Hot
In a dishwasher, the heating coil is responsible for warming up the water and is supposed to get the water up to at least 170 degrees Fahrenheit to sanitize the dishes. If the dishes don’t come out hot, or are still wet after drying, it’s most likely a failure of the coil. Repairing the machine can get expensive, so replacing the dishwasher is usually the best bet.
You See a Leak
A leak in your dishwasher can manifest in multiple ways. You can easily spot a leak when a puddle develops underneath the dishwasher. Some signs are subtle, however, such as rust flakes inside or on the floor around the device, a crack on the inside, or water damage in cabinets or areas near the dishwasher. Sometimes this rust appears due to the dishes you were washing, and a simple clean cycle with citric acid can fix it. However, if the metal or plastic is truly corroding, you might need repair or a replacement.
Sources:
https://www.thekitchn.com/5-signs-you-need-to-replace-your-dishwasher-242776