Spray Arm

• A common problem is the failure of the spray arm to turn. If it doesn't rotate, dishes are not cleaned properly and food and grease may be left behind. On some models the spray arm is located on the bottom of the unit, while on others, it is positioned between the two racks. Sometimes if the arm is not spinning, there is a malfunction in the motor or in the control panel, which must be serviced by a technician. Other times the problem is simply user error.
  
  

Loading

• The way in which you load your dishwasher has everything to do with how well the unit cleans. If the arm is not turning, check the loading pattern of the lower rack. Any dishes that extend within the arm span are likely blocking it and keeping it from turning and properly cleaning all the dishes. After loading the unit and pushing the racks into place, manually spin the arm, if possible on your model, to make sure it turns freely.
  
  

Power

• Ensure the unit is supplied with power. Sometimes the appliance is installed so that power must be turned on via a wall switch near the unit. Ensure the unit is plugged in, and the control panel is readable. When you are certain that the dishwasher has a working power supply, see if the arm will turn. Sometimes your dishwasher will blow a fuse in your fuse box, or trip a breaker switch. Check your home's fuse or breaker box, and ensure that all are in the correct position; replace any blown fuses.
  
  

Tips

• To get the most out of your dishwasher and to ensure that water and detergent reaches all parts of all dishes, load large items like cutting boards and baking sheets around the outer edges of the lower rack. Place platters and trays in the back and corners at an angle so they get the full benefit of the sprayer arm. Cups and glasses should go along the sides of the top rack, and the top rack is also ideal for large utensils and smaller dishwasher-safe plastics. Avoid washing dishes before placing them in the unit as the grease and food particles help the detergent to clean better and keep the dishwasher from becoming too sudsy and possibly overflowing.