DIY Repair: How to Fix a Faulty Dishwasher Spray Arm

A smoothly functioning dishwasher spray arm is crucial for efficient cleaning performance, ensuring that every dish sparkles after each wash cycle. However, issues like a non-spinning spray arm, clogging, or improper rotation can hamper the dishwasher's effectiveness. By following DIY repair tips, you can restore your dishwasher's spray arm to its full potential without breaking a sweat or the bank.

Dishwasher Parts Overview

• Racks: Dishwasher racks serve as the platforms for placing dishes, glasses, and utensils. They are essential for organizing items within the dishwasher to ensure efficient water flow and optimal cleaning.
• Filters: Dishwashers have filters to trap food particles and debris during the washing process. These filters prevent them from recirculating onto the clean dishes. Regular cleaning and maintenance of filters are crucial for effective cleaning and preventing clogs.
• Spray Arms: Spray arms are responsible for distributing water throughout the dishwasher during the cleaning cycle. They ensure that water reaches all areas within the dishwasher, facilitating thorough cleaning of the dishes, utensils, and other items placed inside.

Function of the Dishwasher Spray Arm

A dishwasher spray arm is a key component responsible for distributing water throughout the dishwasher during a wash cycle. It typically consists of a long, hollow tube with nozzles or openings along its length. As water is pumped into the spray arm, it flows through these openings, creating a pressurized spray that cleans dishes, utensils, and other items inside the dishwasher.

During the wash cycle, the spray arm rotates or moves back and forth, depending on the dishwasher model, ensuring that the pressurized water reaches all areas within the dishwasher. The spray arm's movement and water dispersion work together to dislodge food particles, grease, and other debris from the dishes, resulting in effective cleaning.

Difference Between Dishwasher Spray Arms

• Frigidaire Dishwasher Lower Spray Arm: Frigidaire dishwasher models typically have a lower spray arm that rotates at the bottom of the dishwasher. It ensures thorough cleaning of dishes placed on the lower rack.
• GE Dishwasher Spray Arm: GE dishwashers may have spray arms located on both the top and bottom of the dishwasher. This dual-spray system ensures comprehensive coverage for dishes on both racks.

Common Signs of a Faulty Dishwasher Spray Arm

How to Fix a Dishwasher Spray Arm?

Identify the Issue Is the spray arm clogged, damaged, or malfunctioning? Determine the specific problem to prepare for the repair process. For safety, disconnect the dishwasher from its power source to prevent any accidental activation during the repair.

How to remove dishwasher spray arm

Identify the position of the spray arm within the dishwasher. Most spray arms are easily visible once the dishwasher racks are removed.

• Release the spray arm: Depending on the model, the spray arm might be secured with a clip or locking nut. Loosen the securing mechanism to release the spray arm.
• Dishwasher spray arm replacement: Purchase a new spray arm compatible with the make and model of your dishwasher.
• Installation: Align the new spray arm in the proper position and secure it using the appropriate locking mechanism.
• Reconnect the power: Once the new spray arm is installed, reconnect the dishwasher to the power source and test its operation.

How to clean dishwasher spray arms

Thoroughly cleaning and unclogging the dishwasher spray arm:

• Remove the spray arms: Many spray arms can be removed by simply unlocking a clip or by loosening a locking nut. Check your dishwasher manual for details on how to take off the spray arms depending on the model of your dishwasher.
• Inspect for debris: Clean the spray arm openings for any debris or mineral deposits that may be present. It is recommended to use a toothpick or a soft small brush to remove any blockage and make sure that the outlets are free.
• Soak in vinegar solution: Clean the spray arms by soaking them in a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water to dissolve the mineral deposits. They should be soaked for at least 30 minutes to an hour for proper cleaning to be done on them.
• Rinse and reinstall: After washing, ensure you rinse the spray arms with water to ensure that you get rid of any debris or vinegar that might be remaining on the spray arms. Replace them in the dishwasher by fastening them with the clip or locking nut as the case maybe.

Quickly clean your dishwasher in just 9 simple steps for sparkling results and optimal performance!

Troubleshooting Steps for Dishwasher Spray Arm Issues

Easily resolve common issues with LG dishwashers and keep your kitchen running smoothly

Maintaining Dishwasher Spray Arm

Keep the dishwasher filters clean by removing debris and buildup. Clogged filters can restrict water flow to the spray arm.

• Inspect spray arms: Check the spray arms periodically for clogs, debris, or damage. Clean the nozzles and ensure they rotate freely for optimal water distribution.
• Use vinegar rinse: Run a cycle with a cup of vinegar in an empty dishwasher to help remove mineral deposits and buildup from the spray arms and interior components.
• Check water temperature: Make sure the water entering the dishwasher is hot enough for effective cleaning. Optimal water temperature helps the detergent work efficiently and aids in cleaning performance.
• Maintain proper loading: Load dishes properly to avoid obstructing the spray arm's movement. Ensure dishes are placed facing the spray arms for thorough cleaning.

Addressing issues with a faulty dishwasher spray arm can often be resolved with some simple do-it-yourself repair steps. By checking for obstructions, cleaning the spray arm, inspecting the water supply, and ensuring proper alignment, many common problems such as the spray arm not spinning, being clogged, or not rotating properly can be effectively troubleshooted. With these DIY repair tips, you can potentially save time and money by resolving the issues with your dishwasher spray arm on your own, keeping your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently. Whether you need a simple part replacement or a major repair, dishwasher parts like baskets, racks, detergent dispensers, and spray arms are readily available at HnKParts to get your appliance back to its original working condition. 

FAQs

How often should I perform dishwasher maintenance? 

It's recommended to perform regular dishwasher maintenance every 3-6 months to keep it running smoothly.

What could cause issues with the dishwasher lower spray arm?

The lower spray arm may get clogged with food particles or debris, causing it to malfunction.

How can I clean the dishwasher lower spray arm?

You can clean the lower spray arm by removing it and soaking it in warm soapy water to remove any buildup or debris.