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When in doubt, always reach out to a certified repair technician to stay safe!

Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes – What Part Fixes This Problem?

Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.

Understanding the Problem

Dishes not drying properly can be caused by a failed heating element, a defective thermostat, a faulty vent or vent fan motor, low rinse aid, or using the wrong cycle.

Where to Buy Appliance Parts (Price Comparison)

Looking for the best place to buy appliance parts? Here's a quick comparison of popular online stores.

Store NamePrice RangeShippingRestocking FeesOverall Value
PartsDiscount.comLower Cost Options AvailableFREE ShippingNO Restocking FeesBest Value ★★★★★
AppliancePartsProsHigher PricesPaid ShippingYes (Varies)Good ★★★☆☆
RepairClinicHigher PricesPaid ShippingYesGood ★★★☆☆
PartSelectModerate to HighPaid ShippingYesAverage ★★☆☆☆

PartsDiscount.com

Price RangeLower Cost Options Available
ShippingFREE Shipping
Restocking FeesNO Restocking Fees
Overall ValueBest Value ★★★★★

AppliancePartsPros

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes (Varies)
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

RepairClinic

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

PartSelect

Price RangeModerate to High
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueAverage ★★☆☆☆

Prices, policies, and availability may vary by retailer and are subject to change.

Common Causes

  • Failed heating element
  • Failed heating element
  • Defective thermostat
  • Vent assembly stuck closed or broken
  • Faulty vent or vent fan motor
  • Faulty vent fan motor
  • Low rinse aid
  • Tripped high-limit thermostat
  • Empty or broken rinse aid dispenser

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

W10518394Dishwasher Heating Element
WPW10518394Heating Element
WP8269161Thermostat
WPW10195032Dishwasher Vent Assembly
WPW10503548Dishwasher Vent Fan Motor
WPW10380986Vent Assembly
W10195091Dishwasher High-Limit Thermostat
W10195949Rinse Aid Dispenser
Pro tip incoming! 🧠

Helpful Repair Tip

Make sure you're using rinse aid. Unload the bottom rack first to prevent water from the top rack dripping down.

Brand-Specific Issues

Common problems reported by brand

Frigidaire

"Frigidaire dishwasher won't dry"

Frigidaire dishwashers that leave dishes wet after the cycle often have a faulty heating element or a broken vent assembly. The vent opens at the end of the drying cycle to release steam—if it sticks closed, moisture stays trapped inside. Check the vent and its actuator first, then test the heating element with a multimeter.

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Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician

It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.

You got this! Find your part! 💪

Find the Right Part for Your Appliance

Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.

More Common Appliance Problems and Repairs

Explore more of the most common appliance problems homeowners face and find the parts that fix them.

Your Free Parts Videos

Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.

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