Dealing with a common issue of an Amana dishwasher not drying your dishes properly can be frustrating.
You’ve run your dishwasher cycle, expecting to find sparkling clean and dry dishes, only to discover they are still wet.
Fortunately, understanding some of the causes of this problem may guide you toward a solution.
In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind drying issues in Amana dishwashers.
By tackling these causes one by one, you can increase the likelihood of finding the source of the problem and get your dishes back to being perfectly dry.
So, let’s dive in and address the issue of your Amana dishwasher not drying as efficiently as it should.
Why Is Your Amana Dishwasher Not Drying?
1. Water Temperature
One possible reason for your Amana dishwasher not drying dishes could be the water temperature.
For best results, the water should be 120℉ as it enters the dishwasher.
Proper water temperature helps the dishes dry effectively.
2. Rinse Cycle
Another factor to consider is the rinse cycle.
If your dishes are consistently wet, try using the highest heat setting or the strongest drying option possible on your Amana dishwasher when selecting the wash cycle.
3. Vents and Control Panel
The dishwasher vents and control panel also play a role in drying.
A clogged vent or failed vent motor can affect the drying ability of your dishwasher.
In addition, it is important to ensure the control panel and control board are functioning properly.
4. Heating Element
The dishwasher heating element is responsible for drying your dishes after the cleaning cycle.
If the heating element is faulty or damaged, it will not be able to generate enough heat to dry your dishes effectively.
You should inspect the heating element and consider replacing it if necessary.
5. Rinse Aid Dispenser
The rinse aid dispenser, especially a built-in rinse aid dispenser, is crucial for efficient drying.
Ensure the rinse aid is topped up and functioning correctly to dry your dishes properly.
6. Incorrect loading
Incorrect loading of your dishes can also lead to improper drying.
It is important to load items at an angle, especially plastic items.
Place items on the more slanted side of the rack to facilitate better drying.
7. Vent Fan Motor
Your dishwasher’s vent fan motor could also be contributing to the issue.
If the vent fan motor is not functioning correctly, it could hinder the hot air circulation required for drying your dishes.
8. Water Heater
If your water heater or water inlet valve is not functioning, it may lead to inadequate hot water supply to your dishwasher.
Check your water heater and the water inlet valve to ensure they are providing the necessary hot water supply.
9. Power Source
Lastly, a problem with your power source or power supply could cause the dishwasher not to dry dishes effectively.
Double-check the power source and ensure the dishwasher receives enough electricity to function properly.
By addressing these various factors and troubleshooting your Amana dishwasher correctly, you should be able to resolve issues with your dishes not drying.
How to Fix an Amana Dishwasher Not Drying
If your Amana dishwasher is not drying properly, there could be a few reasons.
Here are some troubleshooting steps to help resolve this issue.
1. Adjust the heat setting or drying option
Ensure you use the highest heat setting or the strongest drying option on your Amana dishwasher when selecting the wash cycle.
This can help improve the drying performance of your dishwasher.
2. Refill the rinse aid dispenser
Rinse aids help reduce spotting and filming on dishes while aiding in drying.
Ensure your rinse aid dispenser is filled up before each wash to optimize the drying performance.
3. Check for proper loading
Improperly loaded dishes can block the dishwasher’s fan or heating element, preventing the dishes from drying efficiently.
Make sure you are loading your dishwasher correctly for optimal drying results.
4. Inspect the heating element
A faulty heating element can cause your dishwasher to not heat the water properly during the drying cycle.
If you suspect the heating element is malfunctioning, test it for continuity or consider calling a professional for further assistance.
5. Examine the dishwasher vent and fan motor
Some Amana dishwasher models use a vent fan motor to help dry dishes at the end of the cycle.
If the fan motor is not working, the dishwasher will not dry the dishes properly.
Test the motor for continuity or call for professional help if needed.
6. Review the water temperature settings
Ensure your dishwasher is being supplied with hot water, as cold water will not efficiently dry your dishes. Adjust the water heater settings if necessary to provide hot water to your dishwasher.
By addressing these potential issues, you should be able to improve your Amana dishwasher’s drying performance and enjoy spotless, dry dishes after each wash cycle.
How to Prevent the Problem
Proper dish loading and using the right settings on your Amana dishwasher can prevent wet dishes and ensure optimal drying performance.
This section will discuss ways to avoid wet dishes and food particles remaining on your dishes after the dishwashing process.
1. Check the water temperature
It is important for the water to be at least 120℉ as it enters the dishwasher.
Proper water temperature allows effective washing and drying of your dishes.
To ensure the right temperature, run your water tap before starting the dishwasher, making sure hot water is flowing.
2. Use the highest heat setting
Use the highest heat setting or the strongest drying option available on your Amana dishwasher when selecting the wash cycle.
This will increase the temperature during the final wash phase, evaporating water droplets to leave your dishes dry.
3. Fill the rinse aid
Rinse aid plays a crucial role in the drying process by reducing the surface tension of water.
Make sure you top up the rinse aid level as needed to promote better drying performance.
4. Load your dishes properly
Place items at an angle, especially plastic items, to allow water to drain effectively.
For improved results, try to use the more slanted side of the rack.
Here are some additional tips to ensure optimal drying performance and prevent the problem:
- Scrape off food particles from your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, as this can prevent the wash water from getting dirty and affecting the dishwashing process.
- Do not overcrowd your dishwasher, as this could trap water droplets and prevent dishes from drying properly.
- Regularly clean your dishwasher’s filter to ensure that debris and food particles do not hinder its performance.
By following these measures, you can avoid wet dishes and achieve optimal drying performance from your Amana dishwasher.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
