KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Drying: 5 Easy Ways to Fix It Now

Is your KitchenAid dishwasher not adequately drying your dishes, leaving them wet? We understand how annoying that may be, primarily when you rely on a quick and easy dishwashing procedure.

Several basic troubleshooting procedures might assist you in identifying and resolving the issue. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the possible causes for a KitchenAid dishwasher not drying, followed by five easy solutions to get your dishwasher back to peak performance. Let’s dive in!

Why is your KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Drying?

1. Inadequate Heating Element

An inadequate heating element can be a significant reason your KitchenAid dishwasher isn’t drying dishes properly. The heating element’s primary function is to heat the water during the wash cycle and generate heat to dry the dishes afterward.

If the heating element is not functioning efficiently, it may not reach the required temperature, leading to damp dishes at the end of the cycle. Also, remember that the plastic items are not drying very well.

2. Ventilation Issues

Adequate ventilation is essential for the drying process in a dishwasher. The hot, moist air inside the dishwasher must escape through vents, allowing fresh air to enter and facilitate drying.

If there are any obstructions in the vents or issues with the vent door, the dishwasher’s ability to dry dishes effectively can be significantly compromised.

3. Rinse Aid Depletion

Rinse aid is an essential component of the dishwashing process, as it helps to reduce water spots and promote faster drying.

When the rinse aid level is too low or completely depleted, the dishwasher’s drying efficiency can be negatively affected. This can lead to dishes remaining wet or having visible water spots at the end of the cycle.

4. Improper Loading

How you load your dishwasher can significantly impact the drying process. Air circulation can be hindered if dishes are placed too close together or not arranged optimally.

This can prevent heat from reaching all surfaces of the dishes, resulting in dishes being wet even after the drying cycle has finished.

5. Damaged Door Seal

A damaged or worn-out door seal can also contribute to a KitchenAid dishwasher not drying properly. The door seal is responsible for keeping heat and moisture within the dishwasher during cleaning and drying.

If the seal is compromised, heat and moisture can escape, reducing the dishwasher’s ability to maintain the necessary temperature and dry the dishes effectively.

How to Fix a KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Drying?

Now, let’s dive into the world of dishwasher troubleshooting and get your appliance back in top shape!

1. Replace or Repair the Heating Element

The heating element is an integral part of the drying process of your dishwasher. It works by heating the air inside the dishwasher, causing moisture on the plates to evaporate.

If the heating element fails to operate properly, it may impact drying performance. Here’s a step-by-step instruction for replacing or repairing your dishwasher’s heating element:

• Disconnect the power: Disconnect your dishwasher from the power source before working on it. Either unplug the appliance or switch off the circuit breaker to ensure your safety during the repair process.
• Consult your appliance manual: For exact information on how to reach, remove, and replace the heating element, consult your dishwasher’s owner’s handbook. The manual will also guide the correct replacement part for your particular dishwasher model.
• Access the heating element: Typically, the heating element is located at the bottom of the dishwasher’s tub. You may need to remove the lower dish rack, spray arm, or other components to access the heating element.
• Test the heating element: Before replacing it, use a multimeter to test its resistance. If the resistance reading is outside the manufacturer’s specified range, it’s likely that the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
• Remove the heating element: Carefully disconnect the wiring connected to the heating element. Then, remove any mounting brackets or clips that secure the piece. Gently lift the heating element out of the dishwasher, not damaging any surrounding components.
• Install the new heating element: Position it in the dishwasher, ensuring it aligns correctly with the mounting brackets or clips. Reattach any necessary hardware, and reconnect the wiring to the heating element.
• Reassemble the dishwasher: Once the new heating element is securely in place, reassemble any components removed during the repair process, such as the lower dish rack or spray arm.
• Restore power and test: Reconnect the dishwasher to the power source or switch the circuit breaker back on. Run a test cycle to ensure that the heating element is functioning correctly and that your dishwasher is drying the dishes effectively.

2. Improve Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for your dishwasher’s drying performance. It allows hot, moist air to escape from the appliance while drawing in fresh, cooler air to aid in drying.

To ensure effective drying, it’s essential to maintain and improve your dishwasher’s ventilation. Here are some steps you can take to enhance ventilation in your dishwasher:

• Inspect the vent: Regularly check the vent for any obstructions or debris blocking the airflow. Common culprits include food particles, mineral buildup, or misplaced dishwasher items. Remove any blockages to ensure that air can flow freely through the vent.
• Clean the vent: Besides removing any visible debris, it’s a good idea to clean it periodically. Remove any buildup from the internal surfaces of the vent using a soft brush or cloth. Be cautious not to damage any delicate components during the cleaning process.
• Check the vent door: The vent door is a crucial component that opens during the drying cycle to allow hot, moist air to escape. Inspect the vent door to ensure it’s opening and closing freely. If the door appears stuck or not functioning correctly, you may need to replace the vent assembly.

3. Maintain Rinse Aid Levels

Rinse aid plays a vital role in improving the drying performance of your dishwasher. It lowers water’s surface tension, allowing for speedier drying and eliminating wet stains on your dishes.

Maintaining optimal rinse aid levels is essential for consistently cleaning and drying dishes. Here are some tips to help you keep your rinse aid levels in check:

• Check rinse aid regularly: Check the rinse aid dispenser at least once a month or more frequently if you notice your dishes need to be dried more quickly. Regular monitoring helps ensure you always have rinse aid during a dishwashing cycle.
• Refill when needed: When you notice that the rinse aid level is low or depleted, refill the dispenser with the appropriate amount of rinse aid. Be sure to fill the dispenser appropriately, as this could cause the rinse aid to leak and potentially affect the dishwasher’s performance.
• Use the correct rinse aid: Always use a rinse aid specifically designed for dishwashers and compatible with your dishwasher model. Using the wrong type of rinse aid or a non-dishwasher-specific product can lead to suboptimal drying rinse cycle performance and even damage your appliance.
• Adjust rinse aid settings: Some dishwasher models allow you to adjust the number of rinse aid dispensers during each cycle. You may need to increase the rinse aid setting if your dishes are still wet or have water spots. Conversely, if you notice a filmy residue on your dishes, you may need to decrease the rinse aid setting.
• Look for rinse aid indicators: Many modern dishwasher models come with a rinse aid indicator light or digital display that alerts you when the rinse aid level is low. This convenient feature makes it easy to maintain optimal rinse aid levels without guessing or checking the dispenser manually.

4. Optimize Loading Technique

Mastering the art of loading your dishwasher efficiently can significantly improve the dry cycle performance. An optimized loading technique ensures that dishes are positioned for maximum water and detergent exposure while promoting proper air circulation during drying.

Here are some tips to help you optimize your dishwasher loading technique:

• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines: Consult your appliance manual for specific recommendations on how to load your dishwasher model. Different models may have unique features or rack configurations, so following these guidelines can help ensure optimal results.
• Position dishes strategically: Place more oversized items, like pots and pans, along the perimeter of the lower rack, while smaller items, such as plates, bowls, and cups, should be placed in the center. This arrangement allows for better water distribution and prevents larger objects from blocking water jets.
• Angle cups and bowls: When loading them in the upper rack, angle them downward to facilitate better water drainage and drying. Avoid placing them completely flat, as this can cause water to pool on their surfaces.
• Separate utensils: Use the designated utensil holders and separate forks, knives, and spoons to prevent them from nesting together. This ensures that hot water and detergent can reach all surfaces of your utensils for thorough cleaning.
• Leave space between items: While maximizing dishwasher capacity is essential, avoid overcrowding by ensuring there’s enough space between dishes for water and air to circulate freely. Overlapping or tightly packed dishes can hinder cleaning and drying efficiency.
• Adjust racks as needed: Many dishwasher models feature adjustable racks or tines that can be repositioned to accommodate various dish sizes and shapes. Make use of these features to create a customized loading layout that optimizes cleaning and drying performance.

5. Replace the Door Seal

If the door seal is damaged or worn, it’s essential to replace it to restore your dishwasher’s drying efficiency. Start by acquiring the appropriate replacement seal for your specific dishwasher model.

Next, consult your appliance manual for detailed instructions on how to remove the old seal and install the new one. Ensure the new seal is seated correctly and securely to prevent heat and moisture from escaping during drying.

If you’re uncomfortable performing this task, consider hiring a professional technician.