Can you repair a dishwasher on your own?

Many problems faced by kitchen dishwashers, such as dishes not coming out clean, water leaks and dishwashers that fail are things that can be fixed by a careful homeowner. The tools needed to fix a dishwasher include basic DIY items such as a 4-in-1 screwdriver and pliers.

Before attempting to fix the dishwasher, make sure it is not being misused. Consult the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that the dishwasher is not being regularly overloaded and that the proper dishwasher detergent is being used. FamilyHandyman.com provides step-by-step instructions for general dishwasher maintenance, including jobs such as cleaning the spray arm, float switch and valve screen.