Thermador Dishwasher Not Drying: 6 Easy Ways To Fix It Now

Having a Thermador dishwasher can make your life easier, as it takes care of the tedious task of washing dishes.

However, if you notice that your dishes are not drying properly, it can be frustrating and could lead to other issues.

Not to worry, though; in this article, we will discuss common causes of a Thermador dishwasher not drying dishes and suggest possible solutions to resolve the issue.

It’s essential to understand that several factors could be behind your dishwasher’s inability to dry your dishes efficiently.

Among these, a malfunctioning vent fan motor, rinse aid issues, and a faulty heating element could be responsible.

In the next sections, we will go over each of these factors in detail, helping you identify and fix the problem with your Thermador dishwasher.

Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently address the issue and have your dishwasher running smoothly once again.

Why Is Your Thermador Dishwasher Not Drying

1. Lukewarm Water

One possible reason for your Thermador dishwasher not drying dishes properly could be the use of lukewarm water in the wash cycle.

The drying process for Thermador dishwashers largely relies on condensation drying, which requires hot water to effectively evaporate and remove moisture from your dishes.

Make sure to check your water supply valve to ensure that it is fully open and provides an adequate flow of hot water to your dishwasher.

2. Heating Element

Another factor that may affect the drying performance of your Thermador dishwasher is a malfunctioning heating element.

The heating element aids in raising the temperature of the water and the air inside the dishwasher tub, assisting in the dry cycle.

If the heating element is not working properly, it could lead to poor drying results.

You may need to inspect the heating element for any damage or contact a professional technician for assistance.

3. Clogged Filter

A clogged dishwasher filter could also contribute to your Thermador dishwasher’s inability to dry dishes thoroughly.

The filter is responsible for trapping food particles and preventing them from being recirculated in the water.

If the filter is clogged, the water quality inside the dishwasher may be compromised, making it difficult for water droplets to evaporate and leaving your dishes damp.

Ensure that you regularly clean your dishwasher filter to maintain optimal performance.

4. Rinse Aid Dispenser

The proper use of a rinse aid dispenser is crucial for effective drying in Thermador dishwashers.

Rinse aids help to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing water molecules to slide off your dishes more easily and hasten the drying process.

Make sure that your rinse aid dispenser is adequately filled and functioning correctly.

If your dispenser is not dispensing rinse aid properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

5. Wash Cycles

Lastly, the choice of wash cycles on your Thermador dishwasher can play a role in the appliance’s drying performance.

Some wash cycles may not include a drying feature, while others might offer an Extra Dry feature with higher drying temperatures and extended drying times.

Familiarize yourself with your dishwasher’s wash cycles and select the one that best suits your drying needs.

How to Fix a Thermador Dishwasher Not Drying

Here are the best ways to fix a Thermador dishwasher not drying.

1. Power Switch

One possible reason your Thermador dishwasher may not be drying properly is that it lacks power.

Ensure the power switch is turned on, and for models with controls on the top portion of the door, be aware that the display will only illuminate when the door is opened, and the controls are visible.

2. Rinse Aid

Another common issue is inadequate rinse aid.

Rinse aid is crucial to your dishwasher’s drying cycle since it breaks up water molecules, allowing water to bead up and run off dishes more effectively.

Make sure to regularly fill the rinse aid dispenser to reduce water spotting and facilitate faster drying.

3. Hot Water

When it comes to the wash cycle, hot water is vital for effective dishwashing.

Ensure your water heater is set to an appropriate temperature, ideally around 120°F (49°C).

This will help dissolve and remove grease from your dishes and make the drying process more efficient.

4. Heat Pump

It is also essential to maintain your dishwasher’s heat pump, as a malfunctioning heat pump may not heat the water in the dishwasher or power the drying process efficiently.

Consult your dishwasher manual for instructions on inspecting and cleaning the heat pump.

5. Drain Maintenance

Regularly inspect and clean your dishwasher’s drain lines, drain hose, and drain extension.

Blocked or clogged drains can prevent water from exiting the dishwasher, leading to wet dishes.

Also, clean out your garbage disposal, as it is connected to your dishwasher’s drain system.

6. New Cycle

In case your dishwasher beeps after a previous wash cycle and doesn’t start a new one, the previous cycle may not have finished properly, leaving your dishes wet.

Reset the dishwasher and run a new cycle to ensure proper drying.

To remove any residue, consider running an empty cycle with white vinegar.

This can help clean your dishwasher and improve its drying performance.

If none of these solutions work, consult your Thermador Dishwasher’s manual for further instructions or contact Thermador Customer Support for professional service.

How to Prevent the Problem

To prevent the problem of a Thermador dishwasher not drying dishes, there are several measures you can take to ensure optimal performance.

1. Drying Temperature

Firstly, ensure that the drying temperature is set appropriately.

Higher temperatures can help in drying the dishes more efficiently.

Make sure your dishwasher’s settings are adjusted to the manufacturer’s recommendations for temperature.

2. Dish Detergents

Secondly, choose the right dish detergents.

Some detergents work better with specific dishwasher models, so pick one that is compatible with your Thermador dishwasher.

Also, ensure you are using the correct amount of detergent as per the user manual.

3. Lack of Rinse Aid

Another important factor is the lack of rinse aid.

Always use rinse aid in your Thermador dishwasher, as it helps in breaking up water molecules, which in turn helps the water to bead up and run off the dishes.

This results in dry dishes with minimal spotting.

4. Loading Capacity

Pay attention to the loading capacity of your dishwasher and avoid overloading it.

An overcrowded dishwasher can cause poor water circulation, resulting in wet dishes.

Ensure that dishes are placed in the optimal arrangement for proper cleaning and drying.

5. Energy-Efficient Cycle

Choose an energy-efficient cycle when possible.

Thermador dishwashers often have energy-saving settings that still provide effective cleaning and drying while reducing energy usage.

6. Hot Water

Ensure that your household water supply is connected to a hot water source, as hot water is crucial for the drying process.

Check the incoming water temperature and adjust the hot water faucet or hot water heater to provide the right water temperatures for your dishwasher.

7. Maintain Rinse Aid Dispenser

Keep the rinse aid dispenser clean and free from clogs.

A clogged dispenser may fail to release rinse aid, leading to wet dishes.

Perform regular checks and clean the dispenser whenever necessary.

8. Plastic Items

Be mindful of placing plastic items and items with hard-to-reach crevices in the dishwasher, as they tend to retain water and take longer to dry.

Consider hand-drying these items or placing them in a position that allows for better drying.

9. Star Dry

Lastly, use the Star Dry feature if your Thermador dishwasher model includes it.

This feature uses advanced technology to ensure dishes come out completely dry under various wash conditions.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively prevent your Thermador dishwasher from having drying issues, ensuring consistently dry dishes without any hassle.