Dishwasher Not Spraying Water & Humming

Shut-off Valve

• Every plumbing in your house should have its own shut-off valve. Follow the dishwasher’s water supply hose to find its shut-off valve if you are not aware of its location. If the valve is closed, the dishwasher’s motor will run but no water can reach the machine. To open the valve and restore the flow of water to the dishwasher, turn the handle counterclockwise by hand until the handle stops. If the handle sticks, soak it with a penetrating lubricant and allow it to sit at least 10 minutes before trying again.

Spray Arm Clogged

• The spray arm is the part inside the dishwasher that spins and sprays the water inside the tub. The spray arm may become clogged with hard-water mineral deposits or food debris over time, cutting off the flow of water into the tub. You may remove the obstruction by feeding a wire through the spray arm’s holes. Remove the center post in the middle of the spray arm to remove the arm and reveal its base, which also may be clogged. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the base clean and remove any obstructions, and put the spray arm assembly back together.

Motor Seals Stuck

• With some dishwashers, not running them for a prolonged period of time can cause the motor seals to stick, according to manufacturer General Electric. The stuck seals do not allow the motor’s parts to move uninhibited, even though electricity is reaching the motor. Consult your dishwasher’s manufacturer for specific instructions to resolve the stuck seals in your model dishwasher. With General Electric dishwashers, you must pour a citric acid solution made by General Electric into the motor to revive the seals.

Inlet Valve Clogged

• The inlet valve, which introduces the water into the dishwasher, has a screen that can become clogged when debris in the water collects in the screen over time. To access the inlet valve, remove the lower cover on the front of the dishwasher by backing out the screws that hold it in place. Always unplug the dishwasher before removing the cover, since you risk electrical shock if you do not. Remove the screen from the inlet valve and flush it with fresh water before replacing the screen.