Symptoms
- Bottom rack dishes clean fine, top rack items stay dirty
- Weak or no visible water spray reaching the top rack
- Upper spray arm doesn't spin during the cycle
- Problem started after a recent rack removal for cleaning
Likely causes
- CommonClogged upper spray arm holesDebris tends to clog upper arm holes since they're smaller and get less direct flush than the lower arm.
- CommonWater supply tube to the top rack popped looseMany models feed the top spray arm through a tube connected to the underside of the top rack; it can disconnect if the rack was removed.
- PossibleUpper spray arm not clicked into placeIf reinstalled slightly off, the arm may not spin correctly.
- PossibleLow overall water pressure limiting flow to the topIf pressure is only marginal, the top rack (farther from the pump) suffers first.
What to do
- Pull out the top rack and check that the small water supply tube or connector underneath is properly clicked in.
- Remove the top spray arm and check every hole for clogs, clearing them with a toothpick.
- Spin the top spray arm by hand to confirm it moves freely once reinstalled.
- Reinstall the top rack fully seated on its rails so the water connector aligns properly.
- Run a cycle and open the door partway through (carefully) to check if the top arm is spinning and spraying.
- If the tube and arm are properly connected and clear but the top still doesn't get water, have a technician check overall water pressure and the wash pump.
Tools and parts
- Toothpick
When to call a pro
If the supply connector and spray arm are fine but pressure to the top rack is still weak, a technician can test the wash pump and internal water routing.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.