Dishwasher Inspection Guide: Safety Checks & Common Defects

Conducting a thorough dishwasher inspection is essential for identifying defects, risks, and safety concerns in a home. Whether you're a skilled home inspector or a homeowner learning about maintenance, this detailed guide provides a step-by-step routine, from electrical safety to drainage checks.

Electrical Protection and GFCI Requirements

Dishwashers operate in wet environments, making proper electrical protection critical. In most jurisdictions, dishwashers are required to be safeguarded by a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to mitigate shock hazards in kitchens. Typically, a GFCI breaker in the electric panel provides protection, but some homes may rely on an under-sink GFCI outlet instead. Always verify based on local regulations.

Key step: Test the GFCI by pressing the test button and then resetting it. If it immediately trips again, document the issue as an electrical defect and recommend a licensed electrician for evaluation.

Common Defects and Reporting Priorities

A dishwasher inspection often reveals defects that must be documented, especially those affecting safety or long-term functionality. High-priority defects include:

• Active water leaks under the unit or around connections
• Missing or inadequate backflow prevention (no air gap or high drain loop)
• Nonfunctioning units that fail to start or complete cycles
• Failed or absent GFCI protection
• Severe rust, holes in heating elements, or faulty door seals
• Improper mounting or unsecured drain lines leading to leaks or backups

Minor issues to report include broken rack rollers, sticky soap dispensers, or misaligned door hinges. These may not require immediate repair but should not be ignored.

Concise Dishwasher Inspection Checklist

Use this actionable checklist during inspections to ensure all critical areas of the dishwasher are covered:

• Pre-check: Verify the unit is not being used as storage; note any items inside if brand-new.
• Supply valve: Confirm the water supply is turned on without manually opening any valves.
• Power on: Start a basic cycle and observe for proper operation.
• Active leaks: Check for water leaks around and beneath the unit during operation.
• Interior: Inspect for rust, gasket wear, and control-panel responsiveness.
• Spray arms: Ensure spray arms rotate freely and ports are not clogged.
• Soap dispenser: Verify the dispenser lid operates and releases detergent properly.
• Door balance: The door should stop at approximately 20° without falling further.
• Heating element: Check for visible rust or holes in heating components.
• Mounting: Ensure the appliance is secured to surrounding cabinetry.
• Drain and backflow: Confirm a high drain loop or air gap exists for proper backflow prevention.
• GFCI: Test that GFCI protection is functioning correctly.

Troubleshooting and Recommendations

When issues are identified during inspections, here are actionable recommendations:

• Active leaks: Shut off the water supply and recommend immediate plumbing repairs.
• GFCI trips: Refer to an electrician for persistent trips or other electrical irregularities.
• Backflow prevention: Recommend rerouting the drain hose to include an air gap or secure high drain loop.
• Worn gaskets or damaged racks: Advise replacement parts or service by an appliance technician.
• Nonfunctioning units: Suggest repair or replacement depending on the dishwasher’s age and condition.

Conclusion

Dishwasher inspections are straightforward when conducted systematically, following a checklist that covers pre-checks, operations, interior components, drainage, and electrical safety. By focusing on safety priorities, inspectors can effectively document issues and empower homeowners with actionable recommendations.