If your dishwasher is not working properly, the first thing that comes to mind is calling an appliance repair company. But before you do that, there are a few quick fixes that may work for you. The following are a few things to try.

What to try if the dishwasher isn't filling up with water

If your dishwasher does not fill up with water, then you need to check the float. As your dishwasher begins to fill up, the float begins to rise. When it reaches a certain level, the dishwasher will shut off the water. This is similar to the way a toilet tank fills up with water. It, too, has a float. What can happen in your dishwasher is that something can get stuck underneath the float. Your dishwasher thinks it's filled with water. All you need to do is slide the bottom rack out, identify the float, and see if there's anything stuck under it. The float is usually made of plastic and is often in one of the bottom corners.

What to try if the dishwasher isn't draining

This is a clogged drain line from your dishwasher to your sink's drain pipe. Look under your sink, and you will notice a tube connected to your drain pipe. The tube is fastened with a clamp that tightens with a screw. Simply loosen the screw and pull the tube from the drain pipe. The clog will be at the openings of the drain pipe or the tube. You can clean this gunk out with your screwdriver. Then, slide the tube back on the drain pipe, and tighten the screw clamp.

What to try if the dishwasher isn't cleaning your dishes well

There can be many reasons for this, and many of the fixes are not quick. However, you can clean important parts of the dishwasher, starting with the spray arm. After taking out the bottom rack, you can then remove the spray arm, according to your owner's manual. There are several holes that you can clean out with something strong and narrow, such as an ice pick. Use soap and clean the exterior of the spray arm with a soft brush. Next, remove the filters and clean them. There is usually a large, plastic disk or partial disk that sits around the spray arm. There is also a smaller mesh filter that can get dirty. After putting everything back, you can then remove the top rack and spray arm, cleaning it the same way as the bottom spray arm.

The above quick fixes relate to a dirty dishwasher, so if one of them works, you need to start using a dishwasher cleaning product once a month. If you find that you need to call for appliance service, try to use a professional company that is familiar with your make and model, and always get a guarantee with the repair work.

Contact a company like Appliance Master to learn more.