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Help! My Dishwasher Is Not Spinning: DIY Fix-it Guide

Welcome to your new side hustle as a home appliance repairman or repairwoman! Today's project: a stubborn dishwasher that's decided it no longer wants to spin. Fear not, you've got this. Make sure to gather a sharp mind, a stern fix-it look, and maybe a screwdriver or two.

Unleash Your Inner Sherlock: Diagnosis Time

The first step in any DIY repair job is exactly what you'd expect from your favorite detective - meticulously inspect the crime scene. Your misbehaving dishwasher might just be leaving clues for you to find.

The Symptom: Dishwasher Is Not Spinning

You dish out the detergent, close the dishwasher door, press the start and wait for the symphony of gurgles and spins to begin but alas, it doesn't. The washing arm refuses to spin. If this sounds familiar, then you're reading the right post!

The Possible Culprits

Here are the top three culprits behind your dishwasher's rebellious behavior:

  1. Clogged Spray Arm
  2. Worn-Out or Broken Belt
  3. Burnt Motor

Tackling Culprit #1: The Clogged Spray Arm

Unfortunately, a dishwasher won't do dishes without a clean spray arm. Spray arms can get clogged with food particles, plastic wrappers, broken glass, or those missing socks from the laundry.

The Fix:

  1. Open the dishwasher and pull out the lower dish rack.
  2. Detach the spray arm - usually by unscrewing it from the dishwasher floor.
  3. Rinse it under warm tap water and scrub off any visible dirt.
  4. For stubborn clogs, use a toothpick or wire to gently pick them out.

Next, re-install the spray arm, run a test cycle, and see if your dishwasher starts spinning. If your dishwasher is still stubborn, it's time to move on to suspect number two.

Facing Culprit #2: The Worn-Out or Broken Belt

Just like your favorite pair of worn-out jeans, dishwasher belts can wear and eventually rip.

The Fix:

  1. Unplug your dishwasher first for safety and remove the access panel below the dishwasher door.
  2. Locate the belt. It's usually at the bottom, connecting the motor and pump.
  3. Check for wear, tear, or outright breaks.

If your belt looks like it's barely surviving, it's time for a replacement. Belts are cheap and easy to replace. Just remove the old one, order a new one (typically available online or at appliance parts stores), and install it accordingly.

Battling with Culprit #3: The Burnt Motor

Let's hope it doesn't come to this because motors are a bit more pricey. But hey, aren't you the adventurous DIY'er who’s not afraid of a challenge?

The Fix:

  1. Unplug the dishwasher and remove the bottom access panel.
  2. Examine the motor for signs of burns or discoloration. You may also smell a burnt or electrical odor.
  3. If it’s clear your motor has had it, it's a trip to the parts store or an online order for you.

Replacing a motor isn’t as easy as the first two fixes. If this is where you ended up and you’re feeling a bit out of your depth, it might be time to call in a professional.

Finally, it's test time!

The Final Spin

Volia! Once you've worked your DIY magic, it’s time to test your newly repaired dishwasher. Crank up the heat and let it spin like a ballerina. If it doesn’t, it's time to roll up your sleeves and backtrack your steps.

Remember, in DIY, patience is a virtue and persistence is the key. Happy fixing and enjoy your spinning dishwasher!