The dishwasher is one of the unsung heroes of a modern kitchen. When it’s running well, it saves you time, effort and keeps your kitchen routines flowing. But when issues start showing up, the big question arises, is it time for your dishwasher to be repaired, or do you need a full replacement?
At Pakenham Appliances, we often help homeowners and small business owners answer this question. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common signs your dishwasher needs professional attention, explain what can typically be repaired, and when it’s more cost-effective to replace the unit altogether.
Dishes Still Dirty After a Wash Cycle
If your dishwasher is no longer cleaning properly, this is one of the most common signs your dishwasher is not functioning as it should. You may notice:
- Caked-on food or food residue
- Cloudy glasses or dirty dishes after the last wash cycle
- The need for multiple cycles just to get basic cleanliness
Causes could include a blocked spray arm, a faulty detergent dispenser or water not heating properly due to a failing heating element. Our repair service can address many of these issues quickly and cost-effectively.
Strange Noises During Operation
Many modern dishwashers operate quietly. If your appliance begins making strange noises such as grinding, squealing or banging, it could signal a failing water pump or faulty drain pump.
Unusual noises can be warning signs of underlying issues in the dishwasher’s control panel or internal components. Our technicians can inspect and resolve these issues before they cause further damage.
You’ve Noticed Water Leaks
Puddles around the dishwasher or moisture under the unit are red flags. Leaks can come from:
- A worn door seal or gasket (a simple replacement)
- Loose hose connections
- Cracks in the tub (often irreparable)
We’ve seen cases in the Pakenham area where homeowners replaced a dishwasher unnecessarily, when a quick gasket swap would have solved the issue. If caught early, most minor leaks can be handled without full replacement.
The Dishwasher Isn’t Draining
Water pooling in the bottom rack or remaining at the end of a cycle is a red flag. If your dishwasher is not draining properly, the likely culprits are:
- A clogged drain
- A blocked filter or drain screens
- A clogged drain hose
- A faulty drain pump
Standing water can also lead to bad odours and water leaks onto your kitchen floor. It’s important to seek professional help quickly to prevent further damage.
The Door Won’t Latch Securely
A dishwasher door that won’t latch properly prevents the cleaning cycle from starting. This can be due to:
- A misaligned door latch
- A worn hinge or door seal
- Structural warping (common in older models)
If the door is the only issue and the appliance is otherwise functioning well, our repair service can usually resolve it efficiently.
Warning Signs of Wear and Age
Older dishwashers often show wear in subtle but important ways. One of the clearest signs of age is decaying internal plastics, especially in the racks, utensil holders, and spray arm hubs. Over time, plastic becomes brittle, discolours, or even flakes away.
This wear can expose internal metal components to moisture, leading to visible rust or brown staining, especially around mounting points or screws. While some plastic parts can be replaced, extensive plastic decay is often a sign that the appliance is nearing the end of its functional life.
Your Electricity Bill Is Creeping Up
Another reason to consider replacing an older dishwasher is energy efficiency. Newer models are designed to meet modern standards for power and water usage. If your current dishwasher is more than 10 -12 years old, it likely uses significantly more electricity and water than newer units.
Modern dishwashers:
- Use less water per cycle, often under 10 litres
- Run on energy-efficient programs that reduce overall consumption
- Offer eco modes and delay-start features to reduce off-peak usage
In the long term, switching to a more efficient model can noticeably reduce your household’s energy bills. Our team can help you compare estimated running costs and make sure any new unit is properly installed for maximum efficiency.
Error Codes and Fault Messages
If your appliance flashes frequent error codes or messages, these are signs the internal systems are detecting faults. Refer to your user manual, and if issues persist or are unclear, it’s time to seek professional help.
Repair or Replace? Here’s What We Recommend
Not every fault means it’s time for a new dishwasher. At Pakenham Appliances, we believe in honest advice and long-term value. We’ll inspect your dishwasher, explain what’s wrong in plain English, and advise whether a repair or replacement is best based on your specific model, age, and condition.
We specialise in servicing common dishwasher brands including Bosch, Westinghouse and Fisher & Paykel, using only manufacturer-approved parts to ensure top performance and reliability.
How Can Pakenham Appliances Help?
At Pakenham Appliances, we’ve been helping local homeowners make confident decisions about their appliances since 1986. Our fully insured team is always ready to inspect your unit and offer honest advice based on what we find, not just what’s easiest to sell.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, let us know. We’ll assess the problem and help you determine whether it’s worth repairing, or if a replacement will serve you better in the long run. No pressure, just practical advice and professional support.
