Dishwasher Won't Dry Dishes – Causes & Solutions

Dishwasher Won't Dry Dishes – Causes & Solutions

Dishes coming out of the dishwasher wet is a common frustration. Most dishwasher drying problems are caused by a few common issues you can fix yourself.

✓ Common Causes of Dishwasher Not Drying

1. Failed Heating Element

The heating element heats the air inside the dishwasher during the drying cycle. If it fails, dishes won't dry properly.

2. Bad High-Limit Thermostat

The high-limit thermostat prevents the dishwasher from overheating. If it fails in the open position, it cuts power to the heating element and dishes won't dry.

3. Rinse Aid Dispenser Empty or Clogged

Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes for faster drying. If the dispenser is empty or clogged, dishes will be wet after the cycle.

4. Vent Fan Motor Failure

Some dishwashers use a vent fan to expel moist air during drying. If the fan motor fails, moisture stays inside and dishes remain wet.

5. Wrong Cycle or Settings

Make sure you're using a cycle with a heated dry option. Energy-saving cycles often skip heated drying.

✓ Troubleshooting Steps (Do These First)

  1. Check rinse aid level - Refill the rinse aid dispenser and ensure it's not clogged
  2. Select heated dry - Make sure the heated dry option is selected on your cycle
  3. Test the heating element - After a cycle, carefully touch the element (it should be warm)
  4. Open door after cycle - Opening the door slightly after the cycle helps steam escape and dishes dry faster

✓ Find Your Dishwasher Drying Parts

We stock Heating Elements, High-Limit Thermostats, Rinse Aid Dispensers, and Vent Fan Motors for all major brands.

✓ Why Choose XPart Supply

  • 30+ years experience helping Canadians fix their appliances
  • Expert support – call us to verify part compatibility for your dishwasher model
  • Fast shipping across all provinces and territories
  • Genuine OEM parts – guaranteed fit and quality

Need a replacement instead of a repair?

Sometimes the repair cost isn’t worth it. XPart Supply carries Certified Pre-Owned washers, dryers, and major appliances that have been inspected, repaired, cleaned, and tested — available for local pickup or in-town delivery in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and Hamilton.

View Certified Pre-Owned Appliances

Still having dishwasher drying problems? Contact our expert support team and we'll help you diagnose the problem and find the right replacement part for your dishwasher.