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Dishwasher tablet drawer not opening? here’s the shocking reason why!

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • A dishwasher is a godsend when it comes to cleaning dishes, but it can be frustrating when the tablet drawer doesn’t open.
  • Yes, using a toothpick or other pointed object is a safe and effective way to remove stuck-on particles from the drawer track.
  • Can I use any type of spring to replace the broken spring in the dishwasher tablet drawer.

A dishwasher is a godsend when it comes to cleaning dishes, but it can be frustrating when the tablet drawer doesn’t open. This can leave you with dirty dishes and a headache. Fortunately, there are a few common reasons why this happens and easy fixes to get your dishwasher back in working order.

Clogged Drawer Track

Over time, food particles and detergent residue can accumulate on the drawer track, preventing it from opening smoothly. To clean the track, remove the drawer and use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any debris. You can also use a toothpick or other pointed object to gently remove any stuck-on particles.

Broken Spring

The spring that opens the drawer can break or become weak, preventing the drawer from opening fully. To check for a broken spring, open the dishwasher door and pull the drawer out slightly. If the drawer doesn’t spring open, the spring is likely broken and will need to be replaced.

Worn-Out Latch

The latch that holds the drawer closed can wear out over time, making it difficult to open the drawer. To inspect the latch, look for any visible damage or cracks. If the latch is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Incorrectly Loaded Dishware

If dishware is loaded incorrectly, it can block the drawer from opening. Make sure that dishes are placed upright and facing the center of the dishwasher. Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as this can also put pressure on the drawer and prevent it from opening.

Faulty Control Board

In some cases, a faulty control board can prevent the dishwasher tablet drawer from opening. The control board is the electronic brain of the dishwasher and controls all of its functions. If the control board is malfunctioning, it may not be sending the correct signal to open the drawer.

How to Reset the Dishwasher

If you’ve tried all of the above solutions and the drawer still won’t open, you can try resetting the dishwasher. To reset the dishwasher, unplug it from the power outlet for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This will reset the control board and may fix the problem.

Final Note: Solving the Dishwasher Tablet Drawer Dilemma

If your dishwasher tablet drawer is not opening, don’t panic. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify the cause of the problem and fix it quickly and easily. Remember, regular maintenance and proper loading of dishware can help prevent this issue from occurring in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does my dishwasher tablet drawer not open after I’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps?
A: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the drawer still won’t open, the issue may be more complex. You may need to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Q: How often should I clean the dishwasher tablet drawer track?
A: It’s recommended to clean the dishwasher tablet drawer track every few months to prevent debris buildup.

Q: Is it safe to use a toothpick to clean the dishwasher tablet drawer track?
A: Yes, using a toothpick or other pointed object is a safe and effective way to remove stuck-on particles from the drawer track. However, be careful not to scratch or damage the track.

Q: Can I use any type of spring to replace the broken spring in the dishwasher tablet drawer?
A: No, it’s important to use the correct type of spring for your dishwasher model. Using the wrong spring can damage the drawer or prevent it from opening properly.

Q: How do I know if the control board in my dishwasher is faulty?
A: If you’ve tried all the other troubleshooting steps and the tablet drawer still won’t open, the control board may be faulty. You can check for any visible damage or loose connections on the control board. If you’re not comfortable working on the electrical components of your dishwasher, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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