Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly
Dishes coming out cloudy, spotted, or still visibly dirty is the single most common dishwasher complaint we hear in Abilene — and hard water is usually a big part of the story.
The Two Categories of Cause
Clogged spray arm holes, a filter that hasn’t been cleaned, or a wash pump that’s lost pressure over time.
Abilene’s water tests very hard, and mineral buildup coats heating elements and clogs spray arms faster here than in most cities. This is often why cleaning performance declines gradually rather than all at once.
A Fix Worth Trying Tonight
If you’re not using a rinse aid, start. It helps water sheet off dishes instead of leaving mineral deposits behind as it evaporates, and it’s the single easiest thing to try before scheduling a repair visit.
When It’s More Than the Water
If a rinse aid and a clean filter don’t improve things, the spray arm holes or wash pump likely need attention. We check both the mechanical parts and the water angle together, since fixing one without the other often means the problem returns.
What It Usually Costs
Filter and spray arm cleaning or replacement runs $100 to $180. A wash pump replacement is a bigger job, typically $250 to $350.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my glasses have a cloudy film even after washing?
Almost always hard water mineral deposits, sometimes called etching if it’s become permanent — a rinse aid helps prevent new buildup.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
Monthly is a reasonable habit in Abilene given our water hardness, more often for heavy daily use.