To fix an Amana dishwasher that isn’t cleaning, clean the filters and clear any clogs in the spray arms. If dishes remain wet or spotted, check the rinse aid dispenser for blockages and test the heating element for continuity. Ensuring your home’s water temperature is at least 120°F (49°C) and using the “Heated Dry” setting will also improve results.
Why Is My Amana Dishwasher Not Cleaning?
Incorrect Wash Cycle
Before diving into mechanical repairs, ensure you are selecting the appropriate wash cycle for the soil level of your dishes. Using a “Normal” cycle for heavily soiled items often results in leftover debris; instead, opt for a “Heavy” cycle for tougher jobs. If you are unsure which setting to use, select the Sensor wash cycle (if available), which automatically adjusts the time and intensity based on how dirty your dishes are to ensure a spotless clean.
Read: Why Is My Dishwasher Making Loud Noises?
Not Enough Water
An Amana dishwasher requires a consistent, high-pressure water flow to dilute detergent and blast away food debris. If your unit isn’t cleaning effectively, it is likely under-filling due to one of the following:
- Kinked Water Line: Inspect the supply hose behind the unit to ensure it isn’t pinched or bent, which restricts water flow.
- Household Supply Issues: Verify that your home’s water shut-off valve is fully open and providing adequate pressure.
- Faulty Water Inlet Valve: This valve opens to let water in; if it fails mechanically or electrically, the dishwasher won’t fill properly.
- Replacement: Because the inlet valve is a sealed component, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced if found defective.
Read: Why LG Dishwasher Starts And Stops?
Issues with the Detergent
The detergent helps to remove grease and odors, while also breaking down any stains stuck to your dishes. Be sure to use an adequate amount and a quality brand. Using detergent pods ensures you get the correct amount of detergent and rinse aid every wash.
Occasionally, the detergent pod will get stuck to the door of the dishwasher or fail to dissolve. This will leave dirty dishes at the end of the wash cycle. Simply replace the pod, making sure it doesn’t get stuck in the door of the detergent cup. Run a short wash to ensure dishes are properly sanitized.
Read: Why LG Dishwasher Keeps Turning Off?
Water is Not Hot Enough
If your dishwasher water temperature is too low, it creates a “domino effect” of cleaning failures. Most modern detergents, especially pods, require a minimum temperature of 120°F (49°C) to dissolve the outer casing and activate the enzymes that eat away at food proteins. Cool water also fails to melt animal fats and greases, which instead of being washed away, get redeposited as a cloudy film on your glassware. Furthermore, because cool water evaporates slowly, it significantly hinders the drying process, leaving your dishes dripping wet even after a full cycle.
Quick Tip: Run the kitchen sink until the water is hot before starting your dishwasher to ensure the first fill is at least 120°F.
Dirty Or Damaged Filter
The dishwasher filter captures food particles and debris to prevent them from clogging the pump or recirculating onto your “clean” dishes. If the filter is saturated or torn, your kitchenware is essentially being washed with gray water, leaving behind grit and film.
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- Saturation: A clogged filter restricts water flow, leading to poor spray pressure and leftover residue.
- Damage: Holes or tears in the mesh allow debris to bypass the filter, potentially damaging the internal drain pump.
How to Fix
- Clean the Filter: Locate the cylindrical filter at the base of the tub. Twist it to unlock, remove it, and rinse thoroughly under hot running water. Use a soft brush to remove stubborn grease.
- Inspect for Damage: Check the mesh for any rips or cracks. If the filter is damaged, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced to protect your dishwasher’s motor.
- Regular Maintenance: For best results, clean the filter at least once a month (or weekly if you don’t pre-rinse dishes).
Read: Why LG Dishwasher Smells Bad And How To Fix It?
Maintenance for an Amana Dishwasher
Clean the Filters: Remove the cylindrical filter at the bottom and rinse under hot water to remove grease and food particles.
Unclog Spray Arms: Use a toothpick or wire to clear debris from the small holes in the upper and lower spray arms.
Check Water Temperature: Your home’s hot water should be at least 120°F (49°C) for the detergent to activate correctly.
Inspect the Inlet Valve: If the dishwasher doesn’t fill with enough water, the pump can’t create enough pressure to clean the dishes.
Fixes for an Amana Dishwasher Not Drying
A dishwasher not drying is often a mechanical issue or a settings error. Check these components to get your dishes bone-dry:
- Select “Heated Dry”: Verify that the Heated Dry or High-Temp Wash option is selected before starting the cycle.
- Inspect the Heating Element: Look at the black circular tube at the bottom of the tub. If you see cracks, blisters, or a white mineral coating, it may need to be replaced.
- Test for Continuity: Use a
multimeter to test the heating element and the high-limit thermostat. If either shows “infinite” resistance, it is faulty and preventing heat. - Check the Vent and Fan: Amana dishwashers use a vent to release steam. If the vent is stuck closed or the small internal fan has failed, moisture will stay trapped on your dishes.
- Load for Drainage: Ensure cups and bowls are tilted at an angle so water doesn’t pool in the “wells” of the plasticware.
Troubleshooting an Amana Dishwasher Not Using Rinse Aid
If you find your dishwasher not using rinse aid, your dishes will likely have water spots or a cloudy film. Here is how to fix the dispenser:
- Check the Cap and Seal: Ensure the dispenser cap is tight. A worn-out O-ring or warped cap can prevent the vacuum seal needed to release the fluid.
- Clear Clogged Residue: Old rinse aid or detergent can create a waxy buildup. Wipe the area with a damp cloth and warm water to clear any blockages.
- Adjust the Dosage Dial: Most Amana models have an internal dial (usually numbered 1–6). If it’s set too low, it may appear that no fluid is being used. Turn it to a higher setting.
- Test the Dispenser Actuator: Newer models use a wax motor or solenoid to open the dispenser. If this part fails, the rinse aid won’t release even if the compartment is full.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Need some more clarification? Here are a few more questions and answers that you’ll find helpful when troubleshooting your Amana dishwasher not cleaning:
How Long Does An Amana Dishwasher Take On Normal?
The Normal cycle on your Amana dishwasher can take anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours. Depending on your water supply temperature, the cycle might repeatedly stop to heat the water before it continues washing.
Read: What Causes LG Dishwashers To Make Grinding Or Groaning Noises?
How Many Filters Does An Amana Dishwasher Have?
An Amana dishwasher has one filter in its sump. That’s the part at the bottom of the compartment where all water flows to either recirculate or drain out of the machine.
Why Does My Amana Dishwasher Smell?
Your Amana dishwasher smells for the same reason it can’t clean properly: the filter is dirty, and there are plenty of food stains stuck there. Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, and the smell will go away during your next wash cycle.
