Is Your Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes? | Nashville Appliance Repair

Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes? Here’s What to Check:

Dishwashers are designed to clean and dry your dishes. If you’re unloading wet plates and cups, here are some things to check before calling for dishwasher repair services.

Why It Happens

Plastic items usually stay wet longer. They don’t retain heat like glass or metal, making them harder to dry.

But if everything is consistently wet, it might be a mechanical issue.

Check the Basics

Overloading
- Make sure you haven’t packed dishes too tightly. Air needs room to circulate.
Rinse Aid
- Rinse aid helps water slide off surfaces faster.
- Make sure the dispenser is filled and working properly.

Mechanical Issues to Check

1. Heating Element

Heats air or water during the drying cycle.
Dishes should feel warm at the end.
If not, test the element with a multimeter.

2. Thermostat

Controls heat levels inside the machine.
A bad thermostat can prevent proper drying.

3. Fan and Vent

Pull moist air out during drying.
A blocked or broken fan prevents steam from escaping.
Clean or test it if your machine has one.

Tips to Improve Drying

Use rinse aid—even if your detergent claims to include it.
Open the door right after the cycle ends to release steam.
Use the high heat or extra dry settings if available.
Empty the bottom rack first to avoid water from the top shelf spilling onto dry items below.

Still Not Drying Well?

If you’ve tried everything above and the issue continues, Nifty Nashville Appliance Repair can help.

Your service technician will check the parts and performance of your dishwasher and make the necessary repairs to get it drying like it should.