Dishwasher Won’t Dispense Detergent: Top Five Reasons and Fixes (With Video!)

Struggling with spotty or still-dirty dishes after running the dishwasher? The culprit might be a malfunctioning detergent dispenser, leaving your plates less than pristine. Don’t worry—our step-by-step guide and accompanying how-to video will walk you through diagnosing and fixing the issue, saving you the cost of a repair tech!

Detergent is an important part of the cleaning cycle on a dishwasher. If your dishwasher doesn’t release the detergent correctly, your dishes won’t be getting as clean as they should be. Before you get started diagnosing the problem with your dishwasher, make sure to unplug the unit and turn off water to the dishwasher. Once you dishwasher is ready to work with, follow this easy guide to determine which of five main components is to blame and save money fixing it yourself.

Once you have identified the part needed for your dishwasher, search below using your specific dishwasher model number to identify the exact part needed:

1. Detergent or Rinse Aid Dispenser

The detergent soap dispenser in the dishwasher is responsible for releasing detergent into the machine at the correct time in the wash cycle. Typically, the dispenser includes an open compartment for the pre-wash and a closed compartment for the main cycle. If this part (or the rise aid cap) is defective or damaged, it could result in not dispensing detergent correctly or not dispensing it at all. 

Unplug the dishwasher and locate the dishwasher soap dispenser. This part does not need to be removed to be inspected. It’s usually located on the inside of the dishwasher door. Inspect the dispenser to see if you notice any cracks, discoloration, or other damage. If there is debris or detergent buildup, clean the dispenser thoroughly as that may be causing the issue. If there is damage, a replacement dispenser will be necessary. 

You can also check the solenoid to see if it is faulty. To do this, locate it behind the dispenser and remove the wires. Use a multimeter to touch the terminals and test for continuity. If the part does not have continuity, a replacement will be needed. 

2. Detergent Lid Spring

The door spring is responsible for securing the dispenser door during the various dishwasher cycles. The spring-loaded door is closed with a catch and when the signal is sent to release the soap, the spring releases and the dispenser opens, letting the detergent flow into the dishwasher. If the hinge pin or door spring become damaged or defective, it could impact the ability of the machine to release detergent properly. 

You will find these parts on the door of the dishwasher detergent dispenser assembly. You may have to remove the door panel or other components covering the spring and pin to inspect them. Visually check for signs of damage, including bends, brakes, corrosion, and other issues. If the spring or pin are broken, damaged, or otherwise not functioning properly, they will need to be replaced.

3. Detergent Latch

The latch is a plastic piece that is used to catch the dishwasher lid and keep it closed while the dishwasher is in use. The latch is part of the dispenser, so if the detergent won’t dispense it could be because the latch has failed and the dispenser isn’t opening. Inspect the latch area carefully and check for damage. If it is dirty, clean the area thoroughly. If you do find damage, the latch will need to be replaced. 

4. Detergent Lid

This is the lid that holds the detergent in place. There are several styles, but they’re generally made of plastic. It is located on the dispenser on the door of the dishwasher. Clean the door to remove any buildup. If the lid is damaged in any way, you will need to replace it so that the dispenser can work properly. Some units will allow you to purchase just the lid, while others may require you to replace the entire assembly if one part fails. 

5. Main Control Board

This is the electronic board that’s responsible for sending and receiving signals from the rest of the appliance to run the machine. In the event that the computer board goes bad, it could result in the dishwasher not dispensing detergent or otherwise failing. There are several designs of control boards so you will have to check your tech sheet to figure out how to test your board for power, continuity, and other concerns. 

If you find during testing that the board is not getting the power that it needs, it will need to be replaced. 

Where To Find Us 

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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