Dishwasher repair

Rarely an emergency

Most dishwasher problems are drainage and leaks: a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, a worn door gasket or the wrong detergent. They are rarely emergencies — unless water is reaching outlets, or the dishwasher smells of burning.

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Phone photo of an open dishwasher with dirty water standing in the door and tub
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Dishwasher
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A real Triage Profile from this photo, read by fixRAgent on 9 Oct 2026. Open it ›

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Every dishwasher problem, by brand

Dishwasher leaking waterUsually urgent, not an emergency

Is it an emergency? Usually urgent, not an emergency. Turn off the water to it and unplug it or switch off its breaker, then soak up standing water. If water is reaching outlets or cords, switch off the breaker before touching anything; water coming through a ceiling is an emergency.

Dishwasher not workingRarely an emergency

Is it an emergency? Rarely an emergency. Check power first: the plug, the breaker and any GFCI outlet. Stop and call a pro if it smells like burning or trips the breaker again.

Dishwasher won’t startRarely an emergency

Is it an emergency? Rarely an emergency. Check the plug, the breaker and any GFCI outlet, and that the door is fully closed and the control lock is off. Stop and call a pro if it keeps tripping the breaker or smells like burning.

Dishwasher making a loud noiseUsually not an emergency

Is it an emergency? Usually not an emergency. A new grinding, rattling or humming most often comes from a fan, motor, belt or loose panel. Stop using it and cut the power if the noise comes with a burning smell, smoke or sparks.

Dishwasher smells like burningTreat it as urgent

Is it an emergency? Treat it as urgent. Turn it off and unplug it or switch off its breaker, and do not use it again until the cause is found. If you see smoke or flames, or smell gas, get everyone out and call 911.

Dishwasher flashing an error codeUsually not an emergency

Is it an emergency? Usually not an emergency — the code is the appliance reporting a fault it detected. Note the code, then turn it off at the breaker for a minute and back on. If the code returns with a burning smell, smoke or a leak, leave it off and call a pro.

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