Dishwasher Not Drying Right? Here's Why and What to Do

If you've ever opened your dishwasher at the end of a wash cycle only to find your dishes still dripping wet, you know how frustrating it can be. Instead of sparkling clean and dry dishes ready to put away, you're left with a soggy mess that needs extra towel drying. Fortunately, several common problems cause dishwashers not to dry properly, and they can often be fixed with some easy DIY troubleshooting and maintenance.

We'll also provide solutions to restore its full drying capabilities so you can once again get dishes ready for the cupboard straight from the machine.

How Does Dishwasher Drying Work?

To understand why your dishwasher isn't drying properly, it helps to know how the drying cycle works in the first place. After the final rinse, the heating element turns on to heat the air inside the tub to dry the dishes. This moist, hot air then exits the dishwasher through the vent, which is usually located at the bottom of the door or just above it.

For effective drying, dishwashers rely on a few key components:

• The heating element and thermostat to control the temperature
• The vent and fan to circulate and release the hot, moist air
• Rinse aid to help remove standing water from dishes

If any of these parts are not functioning properly, dishes may not dry fully.

Why Your Dishwasher Isn't Drying Dishes

Problem #1 - Lack of Rinse Aid

Rinse aid plays an important role in drying dishes effectively by reducing the surface tension of water so it doesn't cling and form droplets. Instead, a thin sheeting effect occurs which allows water to slide off glasses, utensils, and dishware. This leaves less residual moisture behind.

If the rinse aid dispenser is empty or running low, the drying cycle will be far less effective. Check the dispenser and refill it if needed. Make sure to use a rinse aid specifically formulated for dishwashers.

Problem #2 - Clogged or Defective Vent

In order for the moist air to exit during the heated drying cycle, the vent must be clear of obstructions. Over time, food particles, grease, and limescale can all clog up the vent. This prevents proper airflow and circulation.

Remove any debris blocking the vent cover or port with a soft brush or pipe cleaner. For stubborn deposits, dissolve them using white vinegar before scrubbing. You can also try detaching the vent cover to clean it thoroughly in the sink.

If the vent fan seems weak or is making noise, it could be defective. Test the fan by activating the heated dry setting. No airflow at all indicates the fan needs professional replacement.

Problem #3 - Heating Element or Thermostat Issue

The heating element and thermostat work together to generate the right amount of heat for drying dishes. If either component is malfunctioning, moisture won't effectively evaporate off dishware.

Signs of a defective heating element include dishes feeling cool or wet after a full cycle, the dishwasher not heating at all, or a burning smell coming from the vent. You may also hear clicking, buzzing or rattling from a damaged heating element.

Test the heating element first before replacing. The thermostat can trip power to the element if the temperature exceeds safe limits. Let a technician assess the heating element and thermostat to determine the fault.

Problem #4 - Incorrect Cycle Setting

Many dishwashers have multiple cycle options. Some use lower heat, alternate drying methods like condenser drying or moisture sensors, or rely solely on air drying without any heat. These can all result in dishes not getting fully dry.

Check your dishwasher's manual and choose the highest temperature wash option. Make sure your cycle includes using the heating element to dry the dishes with a heated drying setting, not just air drying.

You can also try adjusting the cycle to extend the heated drying time. Just be cautious of plastics which may warp under prolonged high heat.

Problem #5 - Improper Loading

If dishes are loaded too close together, or in a way that prevents water from draining off fully, the drying cycle won't be very effective. Airflow will also be restricted from circulating properly to evaporate moisture.

Load dishes carefully with space around and between each item. Angle bowls and cups so that water can run out easily. Avoid nesting dishes inside one another or stacking too many on the bottom rack.

Getting Dishes Completely Dry

Quick Daily Fixes

Before tackling bigger maintenance issues, try these quick tips to improve daily drying results:

• Make sure rinse aid dispenser is topped up.
• Empty dish rack between cycles so air can circulate.
• Raise front feet slightly to improve door seal.

Proper Loading Techniques

Taking care to load dishes correctly makes a huge difference in how well they dry. Use these loading strategies:

• Place plates upright and evenly spaced, not stacked or overlapping.
• Load cutlery basket in an organized, spread out manner.
• Make sure bowls and cups are angled so interior cavities drain fully.

Cycle and Setting Adjustments

Optimize your dishwasher's drying performance by:

• Choosing the longest drying time setting.
• Using highest heat dry option.
• Not relying solely on unheated air dry cycles.

DIY Maintenance for Drying

Regular maintenance keeps your dishwasher's drying capability in peak condition:

• Clean the door vent and filters frequently.
• Descaling wash tub and spray arms to prevent mineral deposits.
• Running rinse agent cleaner to keep dispenser working.

When to Call a Repair Professional

In most cases, ineffective drying comes down to clogs, user settings, or minor parts like the heating element or thermostat. With a bit of troubleshooting, you can fix many common drying issues yourself.

However, if you've tried the typical remedies without success, your dishwasher may have an underlying problem. Signs include the pump or motor not circulating water properly, electrical issues with control boards, or leaks causing excess moisture.

For suspected malfunctions beyond your DIY capabilities, don't hesitate to call a professional repair technician. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose faults and safely access internal components you can't on your own.

We hope this guide has helped explain the most frequent reasons your dishwasher fails to dry dishes fully. In many cases, the problem comes down to lack of rinse aid, vent obstructions, improper loading techniques, or ineffective cycle settings.

By checking for issues with heating elements, thermostats, vent fans, and other components critical for a working drying cycle, you can restore your dishwasher's ability to dry dishes completely. Just be cautious when doing any repairs yourself and call for assistance if needed.

The days of pulling wet dishes out after the cycle ends will be over if the system is properly operating. Next time you unload the dishwasher, you'll be rewarded with clean, dry dishes ready to put straight into the cupboard where they belong.