Why Does My Kenmore Dishwasher Take So Long? 5 Common Causes And Easy Solutions

Dishwashers, including Kenmore models, typically follow a standard cycle that involves several stages:

• Pre-Rinse: A quick rinse to remove large food particles and debris.
• Main Wash: The main cleaning cycle, using hot water and detergent to remove dirt and grime.
• Rinse: A hot water rinse to remove detergent residue.
• Dry: A heated air cycle to dry the dishes.

The duration of each stage and the overall cycle time can vary depending on the dishwasher model, selected cycle settings, and the amount of dishes being washed.

Common Reasons for a Long Dishwasher Cycle

If your Kenmore dishwasher is taking significantly longer than expected to complete a cycle, there are a few potential causes to consider:

1. Incorrect Cycle Selection: Some cycles, such as heavy-duty or sanitize cycles, may have longer durations to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitization. Make sure you are selecting the appropriate cycle for your needs.

2. Overloading the Dishwasher: Cramming too many dishes into the dishwasher can prevent proper water circulation and cleaning. This can lead to a longer cycle time as the dishwasher tries to compensate for the lack of space.

3. Clogged Spray Arms: The spray arms inside the dishwasher are responsible for distributing water and detergent throughout the appliance. If the spray arms are clogged with food particles or debris, they may not be able to rotate properly, resulting in a longer cycle time.

4. Dirty or Clogged Filters: The dishwasher’s filters are designed to trap food particles and debris to prevent them from clogging the drain. If the filters are dirty or clogged, they may restrict water flow and extend the cycle time.

5. Faulty Heating Element: The heating element is responsible for heating the water during the wash and dry cycles. If the heating element is faulty or malfunctioning, it may take longer for the dishwasher to reach the desired water temperature, leading to a longer cycle time.

6. Malfunctioning Timer or Control Board: The timer or control board manages the dishwasher’s cycle duration and operation. A faulty timer or control board may cause the dishwasher to run for an excessively long time or to not progress through the cycle properly.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

1. Check the Cycle Selection: Make sure you are selecting the appropriate cycle for the load of dishes. Avoid using heavy-duty or sanitize cycles for lightly soiled dishes.

2. Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher: Load the dishwasher properly, leaving enough space between dishes to allow for proper water circulation.

3. Clean the Spray Arms: Regularly inspect and clean the spray arms to remove any clogs or debris. Use a soft brush or toothpick to gently remove any obstructions.

4. Clean or Replace the Filters: Regularly clean the dishwasher’s filters to prevent clogging. If the filters are damaged or worn, replace them with new ones.

5. Test the Heating Element: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating element. If the element is faulty, replace it with a new one.

6. Inspect the Timer or Control Board: If you suspect a faulty timer or control board, contact a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion: Ensuring Efficient Dishwasher Performance

By understanding the normal dishwasher cycle, addressing common causes of a long cycle time, and implementing proper troubleshooting and solutions, you can ensure that your Kenmore dishwasher operates efficiently and effectively, providing you with clean and dry dishes in a timely manner.