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What to Do If Your Dishwasher Doesn’t Dry Dishes Properly?
The Problem

A dishwasher should save time and effort, leaving dishes sparkling clean and dry. But one week, I noticed that after every wash cycle, my plates and glasses were still dripping wet. At first, I assumed the heating element had failed. But after going through the user manuals, I discovered that poor drying is one of the most common dishwasher complaints — and it’s usually linked to simple issues that can be solved without expensive repairs.

Common Reasons Why a Dishwasher Fails to Dry

Rinse aid not used – Without it, water clings to dishes instead of evaporating.

Wrong cycle selected – Eco or quick wash modes often skip heated drying.

Overloading the racks – Dishes stacked too close together can’t dry properly.

Blocked vent – Moist air stays trapped inside the dishwasher.

Faulty heating element – If it fails, there’s no heat to evaporate water.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Add Rinse Aid

The user manuals recommend checking the rinse aid dispenser first. I had never filled mine. After adding rinse aid, the dishes dried much better.

2. Select the Right Cycle

According to the user manuals, quick or energy-saving cycles often don’t include full drying. Switching to a normal or intensive wash cycle solved part of the problem.

3. Avoid Overloading

I realized I had been cramming too many items into the racks. The user manuals emphasize leaving space between dishes so hot air can circulate freely.

4. Check the Vent

I found the vent cover clogged with grease and dust. After cleaning it as instructed in the manuals, steam escaped properly, and dishes dried more efficiently.

5. Inspect the Heating Element

If dishes are still wet, the user manuals suggest checking whether the heating element is warm at the end of a cycle. If not, it may need replacement by a technician.

My Experience

At first, I thought I’d need a new dishwasher. But after following the steps in the user manuals — adding rinse aid, choosing the right cycle, and cleaning the vent — my dishes started coming out dry again. Now I make sure not to overload the machine, and drying issues have disappeared.

FAQ

Why does my dishwasher leave dishes wet?
– Most often because rinse aid isn’t used, the wrong cycle is selected, or the vent is blocked.

Can I fix this problem myself?
– Yes, by following the user manuals: fill rinse aid, avoid overloading, and clean vents.

When should I call a technician?
– If the heating element no longer works or the dishwasher doesn’t produce heat at all.