Dishwashers are generally a low-maintenance appliance and they need service when something goes wrong.

Things will often go wrong because it’s a cleaning machine, and if you’ve ever cleaned a car, a room, or a muddy dog, you know that cleaning is dirty work. Dishwashers get dirty. All those food particles that don’t fit down the drain, are caught by traps, or stuck to walls are still there. Sticking and rotting.

The best way to keep dishwashers running is to keep them clean. For one, you get a close-up look at all the drains and hoses so you can spot clogs and leaks. Second, you get a healthy, clean dishwasher!

Here’s how to clean and maintain a dishwasher.

If cleaning and inspections don’t reveal anything, seek help. Your dishwasher may need service if it is malfunctioning in one of the following ways:

• Won’t fill
• Won’t drain
• Making a noise
• Is Leaking
• Dishes are not getting clean

Dishwasher Tip: For the best way to load the dishwasher, click here for Appliance Repair's tips.

If you notice a puddle near your dishwasher, you should have it serviced immediately! A leaking dishwasher can cause a lot of water damage to the structure of your house.