Dishwasher recirculation pump question.

[Dan S. MacAbre]

Our tecnik dishwasher has finally packed in. I'd just go out and buy something else, but the missus is insisting that I get an integrated one that I can fit the existing wooden cover on to, and that seems to add a lot to the price. So I was wondering if it's practical to fix it, instead.

The problem is that the arms don't turn. Water is definitely getting to the bottom one, and it spurts a few inches, but isn't strong enough to turn it. I found loads of articles on the web, and at first I thought it would be the diverter motor, but having dismantled the assembly a few times, I think that's moving okay, and water does sometimes trickle out of the top arm. So, I'm now suspecting the main recirculation pump. Is it likely that it can pump, but not enough, as opposed to breaking completely? Can it be tested? I've had the impeller apart, and it looks to be free of anything that might block it.

The machine is kept clean, and we have soft water. I don't think anything's blocked up.

[Graham.]

I had the same problem with mine nearly 9 years ago

Here is the thread!

IIRC I assumed I'd forced out a blockage by running the machine with the spray arms off and blocking one or other of the outlets with a wet rag. The machine is still running well to this day although it will probably be dumped when I get my new kitchen in August.

[Dan S. MacAbre]

I've tried it with the spray arms off, but have not blocked anything yet. Might be worth a try.

[Andrew Gabriel]

Are filters clean?

Do the spray arms spin freely by hand? Are all the holes clear of blockages?

Might be worth trying a dishwasher cleaner on a hot wash too.

Dishwasher detergents all had to reduce phosphates in January IIRC, and there have been reports from some people that they are now less effective.

[Peter Parry]

The main pump can block quite easily, things like orange pips can escape the main filter and sit in obscure places such as the impeller disc. The motor will work but little water will get through.

[Dan S. MacAbre]

I tried it without the spray arms, and there was barely a trickle. Having dismantled everything I can find, I gave up and ordered a new one for a couple of hundred quid. I got fed up of turning it upside down (with the resultant cascade of water) each time I wanted to try something. Everything looks clean, so I had to conclude that the motor was getting tired after 12 or so years. The capacitor seemed good. I was tempted to try a used motor off fleabay, but for £30, you're still not sure if you're getting a working one.

[Dan S. MacAbre]

I took the impeller off the end of the motor and opened it up - it all looked fine. Anyway, I got fed up of tinkering with it, and ordered a new dishwasher.