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Dishwasher Dispenser Won't Open

15 years ago

It is a Kenmore and the soap dispenser doesn't always open. I switched from liquid dishwasher soap to the little Cascade 2 in 1 soap packets and that seemed to help some. But now it's doing the same thing...won't always open for the wash cycle. Would it work to just place the packet inside he dishwasher and run it? I can't afford a new washer right now.

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Comments (4)

mboston_gw
15 years ago
We had the same problem with my Maytag and I did the same thing you did and switched to the packets. It has worked for me so far, but we also developed a leak and am now looking for a new dishwasher.
dadoes
15 years ago
Use of gels (liquid) detergents can clog the dispenser mechanism with residue. Perhaps it needs some cleaning. Look up your model number at www.searspartsdirect.com, they should show a breakdown of the machine's construction. You can see how to disassemble it (usually removal of the outer door panel) for access to the dispenser if it needs to be removed for cleaning or replacement. If it needs replacement, you can order the part there. Replacing the dispenser is a lot cheaper than a new dishwasher, if you can DIY. Avoid gel detergents. Powders are the least problematical. Packs & tabs, you can't easily control the dosage.
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I too had this problem with an expensive Kenmore Elite but I decided not to let it bother me. I fill one powder dispenser and leave it open and make sure I have the Jet Dry department always filled. I never observed a lack of top notch cleaning after that, but I did give it to Habitat for Humanity when I got the top of the line Thermador (made by Bosch). The Thermadors and Bosch's are far better than the Miele's at their price points and they are at least as quiet as the best Miele's, which cost $1K more. Greg
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amfritcher
15 years ago
My brand new Whirlpool dishwasher was doing the exact same thing. I tried different detergents also...gels, powder, tablets....finally I decided something might be hitting it and keeping it from opening, so I moved the utensil basket from the bottom rack and put it on the door position. TaDa, it was fixed...haven't had a problem since. So if you have a spot on the door for you rack, (some brands don't) try that.
rosethyme
Original Author
15 years ago
Thank you all for your great suggestions. Right now I am just watching to make sure the soap dispenser door opens. I'm not very mechanically inclined and wouldn't know how to take the dispenser apart.

Could I just place the soap packet on the floor of the washer or would that cause the dishes to not be washed properly?

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