How to Resolve a Smelly Dishwasher
Sometimes, what a homeowner thinks is a smelly dishwasher is actually a blocked sewer line.
If a horrible smell emanates from the dishwasher each time it’s opened, there can be several reasons. Some causes and solutions are easy repairs that any homeowner can tackle, but some require a plumber’s assistance.
Following are several common causes of a smelly dishwasher and what homeowners can do to resolve the situation before calling for a professional.
Blocked dishwasher screen
A screen covers the interior dishwasher drain to prevent food scraps, utensils, and other large objects from falling into the drain. It’s similar to a sink drain screen. Once in a while, these screens become blocked and produce an unpleasant odor. While the smell produced is off-putting, homeowners can quickly fix this problem. To correct the problem, follow the manufacturer’s directions to remove the screen, then wash it off. While the screen is off and the dishwasher is empty, run it to clean the system thoroughly.
Mold and mildew
It is easy for mold and mildew to grow in a damp, closed place like a dishwasher. If mold or mildew is the culprit, put vinegar at the bottom of an empty dishwasher, turn it on, and run it on a heavy wash cycle. The vinegar will kill the mold or mildew.
To reduce the smell, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the dishwasher and rerun it on the heavy cycle for a second time. To keep this problem from happening again, rinse the dishes prior to loading them into the dishwasher.
Drain line issues
Almost all drain lines contain a drain tap, a jointed section of piping resembling an elbow. For the bend to prevent sewer gases from escaping into the home, water must be in it. It’s possible, however, that the dishwasher was installed on the sewer side of the drain tap rather than the drain line side. If that happens, a plumber must assess and correct the situation.
Clogged sewer line
Sometimes, what a homeowner thinks is a smelly dishwasher is actually a blocked sewer line. Every drain in a home flows into the sewer line, which carries the dirty water from the house to the municipal sewer system. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris collect in the pipes and form a blockage that may only be evident once the water no longer drains.
As with drain line issues, a plumber is needed to resolve blockages like this. They have cameras and tools to locate the block and determine the best way to resolve the concern.
Homeowners who have tried to resolve dishwasher concerns on their own with no success should contact a reliable, licensed plumber.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
