Dishwasher: Why don't my dishes get dry?

Located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, the high-limit thermostat shuts off the heating element when it detects water temperature above 207 degrees Fahrenheit. A defective high-limit thermostat trips at a cooler temperature such as room temperature, preventing the heating element from heating. Dishes won't dry as well without heat. You can check for electrical continuity through the high-limit thermostat using a multimeter. If you measure no continuity at room temperature, replace the high-limit thermostat, because it tripped at room temperature and is defective.

Replace the dishwasher heating element if it's visibly broken or not heating properly. If the heating element isn't visibly broke, check for a wiring failure, control failure or a blown fuse in the heating circuit before replacing the heating element--those issues could also be responsible for the heating element not working properly. You’ll also need to replace the heating element if broken element water seals allow water to leak through the bottom of the tub.

The vent opens during the drying cycle so the fan can direct hot, moist air out of the dishwasher through the vent opening at the bottom of the dishwasher door. Dishes won't dry as well if the vent fails to open or the fan fails to run. Also, the control panel goes blank and the dishwasher stops in the middle of the cycle if the fan fails. Replace the vent and fan assembly if either the fan or vent fails.

Replace the detergent dispenser if it leaks or is physically cracked or broken. Another sign that you may need a detergent dispenser replacement is if it won't open properly during the dishwasher cycle. Additionally, if the latch on the dispenser is broken, consider replacing the entire dispenser assembly.