An Electrolux dishwasher cleans only as well as its filter and spray arms allow. Houston’s hard water and everyday food scraps build up in both places, and a monthly check keeps the machine working well.
Clean the filter
- Pull out the lower rack.
- Twist the filter free of the tub floor as your guide shows.
- Hold it under warm running water and brush off grease and food bits with a soft brush.
- Check the fine mesh for holes. A torn filter should be replaced.
- Reinstall it and make sure it locks in place.
Clear the spray arms
Look at each small hole in the arms. Mineral scale and seeds can block them. Use a toothpick to clear any clogged holes, then spin the arm by hand to check that it turns freely. If it does not, the arm may not be seated right.
Wipe the door seal and edges
Wipe around the gasket and the door edge with a damp cloth to remove residue that causes odor.
Smell and film
A musty smell usually comes from trapped food in the filter or the sump. A white film on glasses may be hard-water scale rather than soap residue. An empty hot cycle with dishwasher cleaner often helps with both.
Habits that help
- Scrape, but do not rinse, heavy food.
- Run the kitchen tap hot before starting a cycle.
- Use the right amount of detergent for your water.
- Keep the rinse aid filled if your model has a dispenser.
If the cleaning changes nothing
If the dishwasher still leaves dishes dirty, drains slowly or smells after you clean it, the pump, drain hose or heater may need attention, and a smell is not enough for us to say which.
We also repair older Electrolux dishwashers that are out of warranty, including units 10 years old or more.
You can see what we repair on the dishwasher repair page. If the machine still performs poorly after a good cleaning, contact us by phone or the contact form and describe the dishes it leaves behind. We confirm a three-hour arrival window and put the quote on paper before starting.