LG ThinQ Dishwasher Not Drying: Fix It Yourself
Quick answer
If your LG ThinQ dishwasher isn't drying dishes, check the heating element for damage, ensure the rinse aid is filled, and verify the dishwasher is properly venting. Run a cleaning cycle if needed.
Confirm the symptom
- Dishes are wet after a complete cycle
- Water droplets remain on glassware
- Dishwasher door feels warm but dishes are still damp
- No visible steam during the drying phase
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver set — For removing panels and accessing internal components
- Multimeter — To test the heating element and thermostat
- Infrared thermometer — To check if the dishwasher is reaching proper drying temperatures
- Shop vac — To clean out debris from the drain and vent area
- Work gloves — For safety when handling electrical components
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Prep & safety
- Unplug the dishwasher to ensure electrical safety before beginning any inspection or testing.
- Wear work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and electrical components.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Check the Heating Element
Do: Visually inspect the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher for cracks or burnout.
Observe: If the element is damaged or not glowing during a cycle, it may not be heating properly.
Means: A faulty heating element is a common cause of poor drying.
Next: Test the heating element with a multimeter for continuity.
Test the Heating Element
Do: Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the element's terminals.
Observe: If the multimeter shows infinite resistance (no continuity), the heating element is faulty.
Means: A non-functional heating element will not generate the heat needed for drying.
Next: Replace the heating element if it is faulty.
Check the Thermostat
Do: Locate the thermostat near the heating element and test it with a multimeter.
Observe: If the thermostat does not show continuity when heated, it is defective.
Means: A faulty thermostat can prevent the heating element from activating.
Next: Replace the thermostat if it is not working.
Verify Rinse Aid Level
Do: Open the rinse aid dispenser and check if it is filled with rinse aid solution.
Observe: If the rinse aid is empty or low, the dishwasher may not be able to dry dishes effectively.
Means: Rinse aid helps reduce water spots and improves drying performance.
Next: Refill the rinse aid dispenser and run a test cycle.
Clean the Vent Area
Do: Use a shop vac to clean out any debris or food particles from the vent area at the top of the dishwasher.
Observe: If the vent is clogged, the dishwasher may not be able to release steam properly.
Means: A clogged vent can trap moisture inside the dishwasher, preventing proper drying.
Next: Run a cleaning cycle to ensure the vent is clear.
Run a Cleaning Cycle
Do: Run a cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner to remove any buildup or residue inside the dishwasher.
Observe: If the dishwasher runs the cycle without issues and dishes are now drying, the problem was likely due to buildup.
Means: Buildup can affect the dishwasher's ability to heat and dry dishes properly.
Next: Monitor the dishwasher for continued performance.
Common causes table
| Cause | Why | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faulty heating element | The heating element is responsible for generating heat to dry dishes. If it is damaged, it will not function properly. | High | Medium | Yes |
| Defective thermostat | The thermostat controls the heating element. If it is not working, the heating element will not activate. | Medium | Medium | Yes |
| Low or no rinse aid | Rinse aid helps reduce water spots and improves drying performance. If it is empty, dishes may not dry properly. | High | Low | No |
| Clogged vent | A clogged vent can trap moisture inside the dishwasher, preventing proper drying. | Medium | Low | No |
| Improper installation | If the dishwasher is not installed correctly, it may not vent properly, leading to poor drying performance. | Low | High | No |
| Malfunctioning control board | The control board manages the dishwasher's functions. If it is faulty, it may not activate the heating element properly. | Low | High | Yes |
| Incorrect cycle selection | Some cycles, like the eco or quick wash, may not dry dishes as effectively as the regular cycle. | Low | Low | No |
| Water temperature too low | If the water entering the dishwasher is too cold, the heating element may not be able to raise the temperature enough for effective drying. | Low | Low | No |
Parts matching
When replacing parts for your LG ThinQ dishwasher, ensure the new parts match the following specifications:
- Heating element: model number and wattage (typically 1200-1500W)
- Thermostat: temperature rating and model number
- Control board: model number and compatibility with your dishwasher model
- Rinse aid dispenser: model number and size
Always refer to your dishwasher's user manual for the exact part numbers and specifications.
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When to call a pro
- If the heating element and thermostat are both functioning properly but dishes still do not dry
- If you are unable to locate or access the heating element or thermostat
- If the control board is suspected to be faulty and requires replacement
- If the dishwasher is under warranty and you do not want to risk voiding it by attempting repairs
- If you are not comfortable working with electrical components inside the dishwasher
FAQ
Why is my LG ThinQ dishwasher not drying dishes even though the cycle completes?
This can be due to a faulty heating element, low rinse aid, or a clogged vent. Check these components to identify the issue.
How do I test the heating element in my LG ThinQ dishwasher?
Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If there is no continuity, the element needs to be replaced.
Can I use regular vinegar instead of rinse aid in my LG ThinQ dishwasher?
While vinegar can help with cleaning, it is not a substitute for rinse aid. Rinse aid is specifically designed to improve drying performance.
What should I do if my LG ThinQ dishwasher's vent is clogged?
Use a shop vac to clean out the vent area. If the vent is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Is it normal for my LG ThinQ dishwasher to not dry dishes on the eco cycle?
Yes, eco cycles are designed to save energy and water, which can result in less effective drying. Use the regular cycle for better drying performance.