Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpThermador Dishwasher RepairThermador Dishwasher not cleaning Repair
Thermador Dishwasher not cleaning
If your Thermador dishwasher is not cleaning dishes, start with the basics that cause this problem most often. A clogged or failed water inlet valve can keep the dishwasher from filling with enough water, which leads to a dishwasher not washing properly and dishes still dirty after the dishwasher cycle. Next, check loading. If dishes are packed too tightly, water from the spray arms cannot reach every surface. Water temperature matters too, since a Thermador dishwasher needs about 120°F incoming water to clean well. After that, inspect the center wash arm support, center wash arm assembly, and lower wash arm assembly. If a wash arm or spray arm is clogged, damaged, or not lined up with the water supply nozzle, your dishwasher may be leaving dishes dirty, especially on one rack. Clear debris from the spray arm holes and replace any worn parts that are not delivering water correctly. On RepairClinic.com, you can enter your model number to find the exact Thermador water inlet valve, center wash arm support, center wash arm assembly, lower wash arm assembly, or other dishwasher parts that fit your machine.
01 - Thermador Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. If the valve is clogged or defective, the dishwasher won’t get enough water to clean dishes properly. If the water inlet valve is clogged, replace it. Do not attempt to clean the water inlet valve—cleaning the valve could make it more likely to fail.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Improper loading
Improper loading will keep the water from cleaning the dishes. Make sure you are leaving enough space between the dishes.
Top Solution
03 - Improper water supply temperature
The water may not be hot enough. The recommended water supply temperature for a dishwasher to clean properly is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). If your hot water temperature is lower for safety reasons, try using a longer cycle that heats the water.
Top Solution
04 - Thermador Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Support
The center wash arm is attached to a support that is normally attached to the underside of the upper dishrack. Water flows through the support to the arm which circulates the water to the dishes in the upper rack. If the support is damaged or obstructed water may not flow properly. Inspect the support for any damage or obstruction and replace if necessary. In addition, make sure that the support is mating properly with the water supply nozzle.
Top Solution
05 - Thermador Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Assembly
The center wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the upper rack. If water can’t flow properly through the center wash arm, the dishes in the upper rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles can get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the center wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it. In addition, make sure that the center wash arm assembly is mating properly with the water supply nozzle.
Top Solution
06 - Thermador Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly
The lower wash arm circulates water to the dishes in the lower rack. If water can’t flow properly through the lower wash arm, the dishes in the lower rack won’t be cleaned properly. Over time, food particles can get trapped in the tiny holes in the wash arm. If your dishes are coming out dirty, the wash arm might be clogged. To unclog the lower wash arm, remove the wash arm and dislodge any debris from the holes. If the wash arm is extremely clogged, replace it.
Top Solution
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Thermador dishwasher not cleaning dishes well?
Why are dishes still dirty after the dishwasher cycle, especially on the upper rack?
Can a bad water inlet valve cause a Thermador dishwasher to not wash properly?
How hot should the water be if my Thermador dishwasher is not cleaning properly?
How do I find the right Thermador dishwasher part for a cleaning problem?
Shop by Thermador Dishwasher Parts
Shop by Popular Thermador Dishwasher Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com