SMEG owners take pride in their ownership of a SMEG dishwasher, which they can flaunt to their friends or praise to everyone else
However, SMEG dishwashers, like all other machines, are prone to malfunction, leaving you frustrated and with a mountain of filthy dishes.
But don’t worry.
We have composed this guide to discuss 7 common SMEG dishwasher problems and possible solutions.
So, stick until the end to find out.
Common Problems with SMEG Dishwashers (Solved)
Here’s our list of the 7 most common SMEG dishwasher problems with solutions.
This is not to say that if you purchase a SMEG dishwasher you will experience these issues.
These are the most frequently encountered issues.
Other dishwashing machine brands’ problems are not too dissimilar.
SMEG Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly
If your SMEG dishwasher isn’t cleaning your dishes, the spray arm could be clogged, the soap dispenser could be broken, you’re using low-quality detergent or the inlet valve could be defective or damaged.
Before you call your local technician, go through the steps outlined below.
Possible Solution(s):
Spray Arm
- Check the spray arm to ensure it has not been obstructed by a plate or utensil. Gently spin it around to see if it’s free of any impediments.
- Check that the small holes that spray water are not clogged with grease and grime. If so, take it out and gently clean it with detergent.
Low-Grade Detergent
- Are you using the cheapest detergent tablets from the supermarket? Spotty dishes can be caused by using low-quality or ineffective detergent.
- Too much detergent can also cause issues. Use the proper type of detergent and the appropriate amount.
- A final rinse agent should also help with results. Consider installing a water softener if you have hard water to reduce mineral deposit damage.
- Finally, make certain that the dishwasher is properly loaded.
- Check to see if the detergent is being released by the soap dispenser.
- Sometimes the dispenser gets stuck releasing the detergent at the correct cycle time, which is usually caused by grease and grime.
- If this is the case, clean the soap dispenser gently with warm water to remove the grease and grime.
Dirty Filter
- A clogged filter is a common cause of your dishwasher failing to drain making your dishes dirty.
- If your filter is dirty and the water is not draining, remove it from the machine (as directed by the owner’s manual) and thoroughly rinse it under hot water.
- If there is any stuck-on gunk, soak it in hot, soapy water for a few minutes before gently cleaning it with a soft brush and rinsing.
Inlet Valve
- Water enters the dishwasher through the inlet valve. The valve is responsible for the water to enter the dishwasher, and if it malfunctions, the dishes won’t get enough water to get clean
- A faulty inlet valve is most likely to be blamed if you’ve recently noticed a hammering sound coming from the unit while it’s running.
- Parts and replacement information can be found in your owner’s manual.
- Another reason can be a broken water pump belt worn out by continuous usage.
If you are unsure about any of these tasks or do not want to risk voiding your appliance’s warranty, contact a qualified plumbing technician to repair your dishwasher.
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SMEG Dishwasher Not Draining
Is your dishwasher completely empty, or is there always an inch of water in the bottom?
SMEG dishwasher not draining is likely to be caused by a clogged-up filter, blocked hose, or faulty pump.
Before you call a repair service, try these three simple fixes if your dishwasher won’t drain.
Possible Solution(s):
Dirty Filters
- If filters are not cleaned regularly, they can become clogged. Locate and uninstall your filters. These are located at the bottom of the dishwasher, directly beneath the lower spray arm.
- To begin, twist the cylindrical filter to remove it from the dishwasher. Remove any gunk from the filters by gently cleaning them.
Blocked Drain Hose
- If cleaning your filters hasn’t resolved the issue, a clogged drain hose is the next possible cause of your dishwasher not draining.
- The drain hose is an essential component of any dishwasher because it transports dirty water away from the unit.
- It is usually connected to the same drain as the kitchen sink.
- The drain hose could be clogged with grime and food debris or kinked, which is unlikely.
- To clean it, remove the drain hose from the dishwasher and the sink drain.
- The problem could also be coming from your kitchen sink.
- You can easily unclog a sink drain if you have a plunger or a drain snake.
Blocked or Faulty Drain Pump
- A drain pump, like dishwasher filters, can become clogged by leftover food particles and grease buildup.
- This will keep the water from draining after a washing cycle.
- Any debris that has made its way into the pump is usually found near the impeller (a rotor that increases the pressure and flow of fluid).
- Foreign objects, such as broken glass, can easily enter the drain pump and prevent it from functioning.
- If there is a problem, you should be able to hear the pump struggling.
- Checking the drain pump generally requires access to the dishwasher’s bottom.
- This means disconnecting the inlet hose and removing the base plate.
- To ensure that the pump is working properly, take a resistance reading with a multimeter.
If you are unsure about any of these tasks or do not want to risk voiding your appliance’s warranty, contact a qualified plumbing technician to repair your dishwasher.
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SMEG Dishwasher Leaking
SMEG dishwasher leaking from the bottom is usually caused by using the incorrect type and quantity of detergent, clogged filter, overloading the machine, leaking detergent draws, or leaking hoses.
Possible Solution(s):
Damaged Door Seal
- One of the most common causes of dishwasher leaks is a damaged seal along the edge of the appliance’s door.
- When new and supple, its rubber material works well to keep water inside the machine—but after years of use, it can dry out, become brittle, and crack.
- Dried foods can also accumulate along the gasket edge, preventing the door from closing securely against the frame.
- Replace the door seal and clean it around the door and door seal. Replace the door if damaged or faulty.
Incorrectly Stacked Dishwasher
- Overcrowded or incorrectly loaded appliances, utensils, and dishes may obstruct the arm’s rotation or cause it to become dislodged, even damaged, after years of use, resulting in leaks.
- The solution is to stack the dishwasher correctly and to check the spray arm for blockages.
Blocked, Loose, or Damaged Connecting Hose
- The drain hose transports water from the dishwasher to the drain pump, and drain line, and eventually out your sink drain.
- Because connections can become loose or the hose itself can crack or tear, the dishwasher may leak water onto the floor before it exits through the end of the line.
- Check the hoses for any blockages and make sure there are no holes or cracks.
- If the hose is damaged, have it replaced.
- Make sure you place the hose back in its place as per the manual. Incorrect placement will result in dishwasher malfunction.
- Run the dishwasher through a cycle and check for any leaks.
If you’ve tried everything above and your dishwasher is still leaking, it’s time to call a technician.
Check out this article for more information on diagnosing and repairing a leaking dishwasher:
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SMEG Dishwasher Buttons Not Working
If the buttons on your SMEG dishwasher are not working, the display may be defective or power supply issue.
If some of the buttons are working and others aren’t the keypad may also be the culprit of your troubles.
Additionally, there is also a chance the entire control board has suffered internal damage and needs replacement.
Possible Solution(s):
- First, ensure that your washing machine is receiving an uninterrupted power supply by ensuring that the power cable is properly plugged in and the socket works.
- Check that child lock is not enabled and there is no food impeding the buttons.
- Replace the faulty display, touchpad, or keypad.
SMEG Dishwasher Lights Flashing or Blinking
If the lights on your SMEG dishwasher are flashing or blinking rapidly, it is an indication that the heating element is not working as intended.
The heating element is responsible for warming up the water to an optimum temperature.
Still, if the water doesn’t reach the desired temperature in a given time, the light starts flashing.
Another reason can be a technical fault with the control panel that causes the circuitry to go haywire.
Possible Solution(s):
- Replace the heating element
- Replace the heating element assembly
- Get the control panel checked by a technician
If you are unsure about any of these tasks or do not want to risk voiding your appliance’s warranty, contact a qualified plumbing technician to repair your dishwasher.
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SMEG Dishwasher Won’t Start
If your SMEG dishwasher does not start when you turn it on, there could be a problem with the power supply or the door latch.
The switch indicates to the control board whether the door is fully closed or not so the dishwasher can start.
If the switch is faulty, the control board will not receive the signal, and the machine will not turn on.
Another possible issue can be a blown thermal fuse.
However, before you call your local technician, try the troubleshooting steps listed below.
Possible Solution(s):
Check Power Supply
- Ensure the power cable is plugged in properly and the socket works.
- Check if the circuit breaker has been tripped due to a power surge and flip it back on.
Child Lock
- Most dishwashers have a child lock feature that prevents children from opening the appliance or changing the cycle settings.
- The unit will often not operate if the child lock is activated.
- The lock is usually activated and deactivated by pressing and holding a button for three seconds, or something similar.
- Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the child safety lock if your dishwasher won’t start or the door won’t open.
Door Latch
- The door latch switch is the next thing to inspect. This is what tells the dishwasher that the door is securely closed and that it is safe to begin the water cycle.
- The latch secures the door, and the latch switch detects when the door is closed.
There are several possibilities here.
- Examine the door latch to see if there is any old soap or food gunk stuck in it. The latch will not click shut if it is jammed or clogged with old gunk.
- The switch will not activate, and the dishwasher will not start.
- Your door latch or latch switch could also be damaged.
- If the latch fails, the door will no longer be able to click and hold itself closed, preventing the dishwasher from starting and running safely.
- You’ll need to replace the door latch as well as possibly the switch.
If you have troubleshot the items above and your dishwasher is still not working, might be faced with a faulty control board, drive motor, or Thermal Fuse.
It is best to call a technician, who will quickly determine the problem.
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SMEG Dishwasher Stopping Mid Cycle
After finishing dinner, you turn on the dishwasher only to discover that it stops midway through the cycle, leaving the dishes still unclean and covered in soap build-up.
Then when you try to start the cycle again and get no response or find that the same mid-cycle premature end happens all over again,
The reason for your SMEG dishwasher stopping mid-cycle is likely caused by a faulty door switch, blown fuse, or faulty control board.
If you are uncomfortable about resolving this problem or do not want to risk voiding your appliance’s warranty, contact a qualified technician to repair your dishwasher.
SMEG Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes
Common reasons why a SMEG dishwasher does not dry dishes are incorrect placement of dishes, clog spray arms, clogged filter, incorrect temperature settings, and incorrect rinse aid or detergent.
So now we have provided a summary we’ll walk you through some practical solutions that will have your dishes sparkling and dry in no time.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the bottom of this soggy situation!
Dishes Not Loaded Properly
One of the primary factors contributing to wet dishes is improper loading. Ensure that you’re arranging dishes, glasses, and utensils in a way that allows proper water circulation.
Overloading the dishwasher or obstructing the spray arms can impede water flow, preventing adequate rinsing and drying.
Additionally, avoid nesting dishes together, as this can create pockets that trap water.
Unclog Spray Arms and Nozzles
Over time, mineral deposits, food particles, and debris can accumulate in the dishwasher’s spray arms and nozzles, hindering proper water distribution.
Check for any clogs and remove them by gently cleaning the spray arms with a toothbrush and using a small pin or toothpick to clear the nozzles.
This maintenance step should be performed regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Check Water Inlet Valve and Filter
A malfunctioning water inlet valve or a clogged filter can disrupt the flow of water, leading to inadequate rinsing and drying. Inspect the water inlet valve for any signs of damage or blockage.
If necessary, replace the valve or clean it thoroughly.
Additionally, clean the dishwasher’s filter to prevent debris from obstructing water circulation.
Incorrect Water Temperature
The water temperature plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results. If the water isn’t hot enough, it can leave dishes damp. Verify that your water heater is set to a minimum temperature of 120°F (49°C).
If the water temperature is too low, it may be necessary to adjust the heater or consult a professional plumber for assistance.
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Rinse Aid Usage
Rinse aid is an essential component for effective drying in modern dishwashers. It helps to reduce surface tension, allowing water to sheet off dishes and promoting faster drying.
Ensure that your dishwasher’s rinse aid dispenser is filled and adjusted correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you haven’t been using rinse aid, start incorporating it into your dishwasher routine and monitor the results.
Proper Detergent Usage
Using the correct dishwasher detergent and the appropriate amount is crucial for optimal drying results. Ensure that you’re using a high-quality detergent that is specifically designed for dishwashers.
Excessive detergent can leave a residue on dishes, causing them to appear wet. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding detergent usage to avoid overloading the dishwasher.
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Heat Dry Option
Most SMEG dishwashers offer a heat dry option that uses heated air to assist in the drying process. Make sure this option is enabled for your wash cycle.
If it is disabled, activate it and observe if it improves the drying performance. Note that the heat dry option may extend the cycle time, but it should result in dryer dishes.
Inspect the Vent and Door Gasket
A faulty vent or a damaged door gasket can hinder the escape of moisture during the drying cycle. Inspect the vent, located either on the top of the dishwasher door or at the base of the tub, for any blockages or defects.
Replace or repair the vent as needed. Additionally, check the door gasket for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary to ensure a proper seal.
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SMEG Dishwasher Making Noise
Strange noises coming from the dishwasher are not uncommon. They are usually nothing to be concerned about, and the noise problem is often easily resolved.
If your SMEG dishwasher is making too much noise, you may be dealing with a blocked spray arm, food, or broken items moving around in the dishwasher.
Follow the steps below before calling a technician and handwashing your dishes.
Possible Solution(s):
- A buzzing noise is usually nothing to be concerned about. When your dishwasher pushes water down the drain, you can hear it buzz. Check your pump impeller for blockage or damage if the sound is very loud.
- If your dishwasher is making grinding noises, it is likely that a foreign object has become lodged inside the pump. It could be hard food or something that was being cleaned and broken during the wash cycle. To see if this is the case, remove the dishwasher’s lower rack, then the spray arms, and finally the filter unit for inspection.
- Check that the dishwasher is properly loaded. If the spray arm is hitting the utensils (baby bottles, for example), the dishwasher has been incorrectly loaded. To fix this, arrange the utensils so that the spray arms can fully rotate without being obstructed.
If the noise persists, it is best to contact a technician.
SMEG Dishwasher Not Heating Water
SMEG dishwasher not heating water is likely to be caused by a faulty heating element, faulty control board, or broken temperature sensor.
Unless you are very handy it’s probably best to contact a technician to come to take a look at your dishwasher.
SMEG Dishwasher Water Level Too High or Flooding
When you turn on a SMEG dishwasher, it’ll automatically turn on the anti-flooding system.
This event occurs if you have a faulty valve or a filter blocked with debris.
It is also probable that you put too much detergent into the cabin resulting in excessive foam.
Another reason could be a malfunctioning pressure switch that checks the water level.
Possible Solutions:
If you realize your dishwasher is flooding, it is best to replace the malfunctioning valve with the blocked filter.
If your problem doesn’t go away, you can always call a technician to run a quick diagnostic and fix the pressure switch.
Additionally, ensure that you don’t put excessive detergent in the dishwasher and only use the recommended amount.
SMEG Dishwasher Wrong Temperature or Water Not Heating:
If you notice your SMEG dishwasher is not getting heated to the right temperature or the water temperature shown on display is not correct, it is time to run a diagnostic session.
The most common reason for these issues is a malfunctioning heating element, but sometimes the wiring, display sensor, and control board may be the culprits too.
Possible Solutions:
The ideal fix for the above issues is getting your display sensor tested or replaced.
If the problem lies with the heating element, it may require replacement too. Hire a technician to get the control board or wiring fixed.
SMEG Dishwasher No Water Intake
Often your SMEG dishwasher can’t take in more water even if there is no water inside it.
In this case, we are looking at possible inlet valve failure or a twisted hose that’s blocking the stream.
Possible Solutions:
Double-check to ensure that the tap is turned on correctly and there are no blocking twists or twirls in the hose.
Then locate the water inlet valve to check if it’s working perfectly.
Can’t Measure the Water Entering the SMEG Dishwasher
If you cannot measure the water going inside the dishwasher, you may be dealing with a malfunctioning control board.
Possible Solutions:
You will have to reset the control board or the appliance itself to restore proper functionality.
If the restore doesn’t work, your control board has probably malfunctioned and might need replacement by a repair person.
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How Long Should A SMEG Dishwasher Last?
SMEG dishwashers have above-average longevity and most of them can last between 7 to 12 years.
Of course, this number comes down in many cases if the dishwasher is not properly taken care of or used inappropriately.
It is best to regularly clean the appliance and replace the filters so debris cannot stick within the smaller parts of the device.
Are SMEG Dishwashers Any Good?
Yes, SMEG dishwashers are very good. Smeg has made a name for itself in a competitive market by offering top-of-the-line features and a durable design to last for ages.
However, they are yet to perfect this art in every domain; hence only some of their offered devices fulfill the optimum user requirements of reliability and convenience.
So, it is best to do your research and look at all the SMEG dishwasher options before making your final purchase.
A plus point with SMEG dishwashers is that you can get a wide range of appliances in an acceptable price range.
And the unique design this Italian brand brings to the table makes it well worth the investment.
What Do the Reviews Say?
“It opens up like a regular dishwasher, but it has only one level, not two, so you don’t have to bend down to load/unload the dishes.
It’s also 34″ wide, so it’s not particularly space efficient.
But it looks like it holds a good number of dishes, and there are washing arms on both the top and the bottom.”
“It is very, very quiet, and the stainless-steel finish doesn’t show finger smudge.
Leave the door closed overnight for best drying results.
I don’t open the door while there is steam drying to minimize the touchpad being exposed to moisture.
I prefer knob-operated appliances because of this, but there is not much to choose from these days.”
“On the four times we have been able to use it, we were happy with the cleanliness, and everything was dry.
It ran quietly as well.
Easy to use even for an older person like myself that is not immediately comfortable with modern tech stuff.
But overall, we are quite impressed.”
SMEG Dishwashers Pros and Cons
SMEG is a renowned brand in the world of kitchen appliances, known for its distinctive design and innovative features.
When it comes to dishwashers, SMEG offers a range of options that cater to different needs and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of owning a SMEG dishwasher:
Pros of SMEG Dishwashers
Aesthetic Appeal: One of the standout features of SMEG dishwashers is their stunning design. With retro-inspired aesthetics and a variety of color options, SMEG dishwashers can add a touch of style to any kitchen decor.
Build Quality: SMEG appliances are generally well-built and durable. The dishwashers are made with high-quality materials, contributing to their longevity and reliability.
Customization: Many SMEG dishwasher models offer customizable panels, allowing you to match the appliance with your kitchen cabinetry seamlessly. This integration can enhance the overall visual appeal of your kitchen.
Quiet Operation: Several SMEG dishwasher models are designed to operate quietly, minimizing disruption in your home, especially during nighttime cycles.
Energy Efficiency: SMEG dishwashers often come with energy-efficient features, such as eco-friendly wash cycles and options to optimize water and energy consumption. This can lead to lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint.
Diverse Wash Cycles: SMEG dishwashers typically offer a range of wash cycles to accommodate various load types. This includes options for delicate items, heavy-duty cleaning, and quick cycles for lightly soiled dishes.
Cons of SMEG Dishwashers
Price Point: One of the notable drawbacks of SMEG dishwashers is their higher price compared to some other brands. The stylish design and premium features contribute to the elevated cost, which might not be suitable for budget-conscious consumers.
Limited Availability: Depending on your location, SMEG appliances might not be as readily available as more mainstream brands, making it potentially harder to find replacement parts or service technicians.
Interior Space: While SMEG dishwashers are often designed with aesthetic appeal in mind, this might result in slightly less interior space compared to some other dishwasher models. This could be a concern for households with larger loads of dishes.
Features vs. Price: Some consumers might find that the price of SMEG dishwashers doesn’t always align with the features provided. Other brands might offer more advanced technological features and functionalities at a similar or lower cost.
Repair and Maintenance: In case of breakdowns or malfunctions, repairing SMEG dishwashers could be a bit challenging and expensive, especially if you’re not covered by a warranty or service plan.
Learning Curve: The controls and settings on SMEG dishwashers might have a learning curve, especially if you’re accustomed to more conventional dishwasher interfaces. This could potentially lead to confusion during the initial use.
In conclusion, SMEG dishwashers offer a combination of style, quality, and performance.
However, they come with a higher price tag and some potential trade-offs in terms of interior space and repair options.
Before making a purchase, it’s important to consider your budget, design preferences, and the specific features that matter most to you in a dishwasher.
Final Thoughts
This article encapsulated the many relevant details about SMEG dishwashers and gave you tested solutions, so you’re not helpless the next time the appliance starts to act up.
Carefully read through the article to have all the information in your ammo to maintain your SMEG dishwasher effectively. Cheers!
Related Articles
- SMEG Dishwasher Arm Not Spinning (with Solutions)
- SMEG Dishwasher Door Not Closing (Simple Answer)
- Why Are SMEG Appliances Expensive? (Simple Answer)
- Smeg Dishwasher Error Codes: Troubleshooting Guide
References
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