Dishes are not Clean

Is the water turned on? 

The water supply value must be completely open to wash and rinse the dishes properly.  

Is there a flood prevention device installed? 

Anti-flood or flood-prevention devices contain a mechanical valve that stops water flow if the water volume or flow rate exceeds a set value. If the device is not installed correctly, it will prevent water from flowing into the dishwasher.  Refer to the device's manufacturer installation instructions to verify installation. 

Some KitchenAid dishwashers have a Leak Detection System feature that if a leak is detected, a light will flash on the front of the dishwasher to alert you, and the dishwasher will proceed to drain water from the tub.

Are you using rinse aid?

The use of rinse aid is very important. Using rinse aid will optimize your drying and wash performance. Your dishwasher is specifically designed to use liquid rinse aid for improved drying performance and controlling buildup of hard water deposits.

Are you using the high-temperature wash option?

Consider using a high-temperature wash option. This option raises the main wash temperature to improve cleaning for loads containing tough, baked-on food. If your food soil is heavy on the dishes a heavier cycle may be required to fully clean your dishes. Check to see if the water pressure is high enough for proper dishwasher filling. Water pressure should be 20 to 120 psi (138 to 828 kPa).

CLICK HERE for more information on water temperature

Were the dishes loaded correctly?

If water cannot easily reach all surfaces of the dish load, soils and detergent can be retained longer and impact dilution. Maintain good orientation and spacing of items to minimize shadowing and pooling of water.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to load dishes in the dishwasher correctly.

Was the correct amount of detergent used? 

If using powder or liquid detergents, don't overdose.  Consider using premium detergent packets that typically have chemistry to minimize damage to dishes. 

Older detergent exposed to air can clump and not dissolve well. Use fresh detergent only. Clean out the dispenser. Do not allow the detergent to sit for several hours in a wet dispenser. Clean the dispenser when caked detergent is present.

Did someone put dish soap in your dishwasher?

Dishwashing detergent does not create suds, but dish soap does.  If suds, bubbles, or soap foam are present when you open your dishwasher, turn off the dishwasher and allow suds to dissipate. Using the wrong type or too much detergent can cause over-sudsing.  The suds may push water out of the dishwasher, causing leaking or poor wash performance.  Use only detergent specifically designed for automatic dishwashers. 

CLICK HERE for additional information on removing bubbles

Have you cleaned the dishwasher?

Extremely hard water mineral deposits can cause damage to your dishwasher and make it difficult to achieve good cleaning. A water softener is strongly recommended if your hardness is 15 grains or more.

Use affresh^® Dishwasher Cleaner (or another dishwasher cleaning product) or a white vinegar rinse to remove white spots and film. Depending on the severity of the spots more than one treatment may be required.

CLICK HERE for more information on cleaning the dishwasher interior.