Dishwasher tablet not dissolving: causes and what to do
If the tablet is left in the dispenser after the wash or lies undissolved at the bottom, the cause is usually loading or the programme. Electrolux notes that tablets may not dissolve fully in short cycles, and Bosch points to a common cause: dishes — such as a saucepan handle — blocking the dispenser lid.
If the tablet does not dissolve and the dishes are cold at the end of the cycle, the machine may not be heating the water — then you need a technician.
Likely causes
- the dispenser lid cannot open: dishes block it — a saucepan handle, tall plates or an air freshener (Bosch, Electrolux);
- a short programme — Electrolux advises using tablets on long cycles;
- the dispenser was damp and the tablet stuck (Electrolux);
- some tablet brands do not dissolve completely (Electrolux);
- blocked or damaged spray arms: water does not reach the tablet (Bosch);
- low water pressure: the machine takes in too little water (Bosch);
- low water temperature, or the machine is not heating the water (Bosch, Electrolux).
Safe steps you can try
- Load the dishes so that nothing stands in front of the dispenser or stops the lid opening (Bosch, Electrolux).
- Place the tablet in the dispenser flat, not upright (Bosch).
- Wipe the dispenser dry before putting the tablet in (Electrolux).
- Choose a long programme or a higher-temperature one (Electrolux, Bosch).
- Take out and clean the spray arms: they should rotate freely, have no cracks, and the holes should be clear (Bosch).
- Check the inlet hose: it must not be kinked, crushed or twisted (Bosch).
- If the tablet still stays in the dispenser, Electrolux suggests placing it at the bottom of the machine. You can also try another brand or a powder.
When to call a technician
Call a technician if the dishes are cold at the end of the cycle, the machine takes in little water although the tap is open and the hose is straight, or the dispenser lid will not open even with nothing in front of it. The heater, the inlet valve or the dispenser mechanism is probably faulty. Bosch and Electrolux also advise contacting service in these cases.
A MasService technician will check the heating, the water supply and the dispenser and name the price before starting the repair.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put the tablet straight at the bottom of the machine?
Electrolux allows it if the tablet does not dissolve or is not rinsed out of the dispenser. But first check that no dishes stop the dispenser lid from opening.
Why does the tablet not dissolve on a quick programme?
Electrolux notes that tablets may not dissolve fully in short cycles. Choose long programmes when you use tablets.
Is it a fault?
Usually not: Electrolux says plainly that an undissolved tablet is usually not a malfunction of the dishwasher. A fault is likely if the machine does not heat the water or takes in too little water.
Other faults
Dishwasher repair — Brands
Could not fix it yourself? A technician comes to your home in Baku, finds the cause on site and names the price before the repair: Dishwasher repair