Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Maintenance Tips

Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer Maintenance Tips — annual schedule, monthly checklist, tools, and pro maintenance tips.

Fisher & Paykel dishwasher maintenance — Fisher & Paykel dishwasher maintenance guide: annual schedule, monthly checklist, tools, and pro maintenance tips.

The Fisher & Paykel DD24 DishDrawer has a compact drawer-style design that makes filter and spray arm access easier than in conventional dishwashers — which means there is no excuse for skipping maintenance. Blocked filters and calcified spray arm holes cause the majority of poor wash results and unusual noises. This guide covers exactly what to clean, how often, and what to watch for.

Annual Maintenance Schedule

Frequency	Task	DIY
Weekly	Wipe drawer seal and rim with damp cloth	Yes
Monthly	Remove and rinse filter assembly under running water	Yes
Every 3 months	Clear spray arm holes with a toothpick or fine wire	Yes
Every 3 months	Run a cleaning cycle with dishwasher cleaner or citric acid	Yes
Annually	Inspect and clean the drain hose outlet for blockages	Yes
Annually	Check detergent dispenser door for residue buildup	Yes

Monthly Checklist

• Remove the filter basket from the bottom of the drawer — twist and lift per the owner manual — and rinse under warm running water, scrubbing with a soft brush if needed.
• Inspect the sump area below the filter for broken glass, seeds, or debris that could damage the pump.
• Wipe the door gasket and drawer rim with a damp microfibre cloth to remove food particles and soap scum.
• Check that the drawer slides freely and that the drawer latch engages cleanly — misaligned drawers can prevent the wash cycle from starting.
• Confirm the rinse-aid dispenser is filled; low rinse-aid causes water spots and poor drying.

Seasonal Tasks

Every three months, remove each spray arm by pressing the release tab and pulling upward, then hold it under running water and use a toothpick to clear each spray hole. Calcified holes reduce water pressure and leave dishes dirty even when detergent and water temperature are correct. Twice a year, place a cup of citric acid powder (or a proprietary dishwasher descaler) in the drawer and run a hot cycle without dishes to dissolve limescale from the heating element and internal walls. In hard-water areas, do this quarterly. Periodically check under the unit for puddles — a small drip from the door seal or drain hose connection is easier and cheaper to fix early than after water damage has spread.

Tools You Need

• Soft-bristle cleaning brush or old toothbrush
• Toothpick or thin wire (spray arm holes)
• Microfibre cloths
• Citric acid powder or proprietary dishwasher cleaner
• Rinse-aid refill

When to Call a Pro

If the DishDrawer fills with water but does not drain, the drain pump or solenoid valve may have failed — cleaning the filter first is worth trying, but if the problem persists after clearing the drain path, a technician is needed. Grinding or humming noises during the wash cycle that do not stop after filter cleaning suggest a damaged wash pump impeller. Water leaking from beneath the unit rather than from the seal area points to a cracked sump or loose hose connection that requires professional repair. Do not use the drawer if water is actively pooling on the floor.