Maytag Dishwasher: Troubleshooting Water Not Reaching... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the water flow to the upper and lower spray arms through a diverter valve. The MCU sends a 120V AC signal to the diverter motor based on the selected wash cycle. If the diverter valve is faulty or the water pressure is low, the upper spray arm may not receive enough water.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that dishes on the top rack are not getting clean. They may also notice that the top spray arm is not spinning properly or that water is not spraying from it with sufficient force.

Possible Causes:

Low water pressure to the dishwasher.
Clogged filter or sump area.
Faulty diverter motor or valve.
Clogged or restricted spray arm nozzles.
Defective circulation pump.

Solution:

1

Turn off the dishwasher and disconnect power at the breaker panel.
2

Inspect the water inlet valve screen for debris. Clean if necessary.
3

Remove and clean the lower filter and sump area. Check for food particles or obstructions.
4

Examine the spray arms for clogs. Use a thin wire or toothpick to clear any blocked nozzles.
5

If the dishwasher has a diverter valve, check its operation. Use a multimeter to test the diverter motor for continuity. Should read approximately 2k-4k ohms.
6

Remove the circulation pump and inspect the impeller for damage or obstructions.
7

Reassemble the dishwasher and test its operation. Monitor the water pressure to the upper spray arm.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out, Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental energization. Be aware of 120V AC circuits when testing components.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the filter and sump area of the dishwasher to prevent clogs. Run a dishwasher cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every month.

Expert Tip:

Most Maytag dishwashers have a diagnostic mode. To enter service mode press Hi-Temp Scrub -> Heated Dry -> Hi-Temp Scrub -> Heated Dry. This might show you any stored error codes or allow you to test components directly.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the proper water pressure for a dishwasher?

The ideal water pressure for a dishwasher is between 20 and 120 PSI. Low water pressure can significantly affect cleaning performance.

•How do I test the diverter valve?

Using a multimeter, check for continuity across the diverter motor terminals. If there is no continuity, the motor is likely defective. Also, visually inspect the valve for any signs of damage or sticking.

•Where is the circulation pump located in my Maytag dishwasher?

The circulation pump is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, beneath the lower spray arm. You may need to remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly to access it.

Maytag Dishwasher: Troubleshooting Water Not Reaching Top Spray Arm

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the proper water pressure for a dishwasher?

•How do I test the diverter valve?

•Where is the circulation pump located in my Maytag dishwasher?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: