Symptoms
- Spray seems weak across all racks and arms
- Wash performance has gradually declined over months
- Other faucets in the house also have lower pressure
- No specific area is worse than another, unlike a single clogged arm
Likely causes
- CommonClogged water inlet valve screenSediment can build up on the small filter screen where water enters the unit, reducing overall flow.
- PossibleLow household water pressureIf pressure is low throughout the house, the dishwasher will show it too.
- PossiblePartially clogged water supply lineMineral buildup inside an older supply line can restrict flow over time.
- PossibleWorn or weakening wash pumpA pump losing strength affects overall spray pressure rather than one specific arm.
What to do
- Check if other faucets in the house also seem to have reduced pressure, which would point to a household issue rather than the dishwasher.
- Turn off the water supply and disconnect the fill line to check the inlet valve's screen for sediment buildup.
- Clean any visible sediment or scale off the screen with a soft brush and rinse it before reconnecting.
- Check the supply line for kinks or visible mineral scale buildup on older lines.
- If household pressure is generally low, that's a plumbing matter rather than a dishwasher issue.
- If pressure at the supply is normal and the inlet screen is clean, have a technician test the wash pump's output.
Tools and parts
- Adjustable wrench
- Soft brush
Dishwasher water inlet valveSearch: “dishwasher inlet valve screen”
When to call a pro
If cleaning the inlet screen doesn't help and household pressure is normal, have an appliance technician test the wash pump.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.