Wondering why you find your JennAir dishwasher not drying fully? If you’ve ever pulled out your dishware to find it still dripping, you know how much frustrating this can be. Well, let’s ease those worries, as we delve into a few easy fixes that you can manage at home.
How to Diagnose Your JennAir Dishwasher Not Drying Issue
Before we start troubleshooting, it’s essential to recognize that several things might be the reason for your JennAir dishwasher leaving your dishes wet. Knowing these potential issues will help you get to the root of the problem and get your dishwasher drying again.
Wrong Cycle Selection
Occasionally, the problem may be as straightforward as picking the wrong washing cycle. Each cycle comes with its own temperature and drying duration parameters, so selecting an unsuitable one may result in your dishes staying damp.
Cause: Dishwasher cycles aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some cycles aim for a speedy wash and might not allocate enough time for drying, while others might be designed to conserve energy and use less heat, which could leave your dishes less than perfectly dry.
Fix: Ensure that the cycle you choose includes a heated drying stage. Consult your JennAir dishwasher’s user manual to familiarize yourself with the optimal cycle selection for diverse load types and dish materials.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Dishwasher
Why are my dishes still wet after the dishwasher cycle? How you arrange your dishes in the dishwasher can have a substantial effect on the drying process. Cramming too many dishes in or poorly positioning them can obstruct necessary airflow, which is critical for efficient drying.
Cause: When dishes are packed too closely or larger items obstruct others, it hampers the proper circulation of hot air, leaving some dishes damp even after the cycle concludes.
Fix: Resist the urge to overfill your dishwasher and make sure there’s ample room between items for air and water to circulate. Be mindful that water doesn’t drip from one dish onto another. Arrange items with a curved shape (like bowls and mugs) at an angle to stop water from collecting inside them.

Clogged Dishwasher Filter
Your dishwasher’s filter plays a crucial role in keeping the wash water free from food particles and debris. If the filter becomes clogged, it could lead to several issues, including your JennAir dishwasher not drying dishes properly.
Cause: Over time and with frequent use, your dishwasher filter can collect debris, leading to reduced water flow and less effective washing and drying cycles.
Fix: Regularly check and clean your dishwasher filter to ensure it’s not clogged. Here’s a basic guide on how to do it:
- Locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher. It’s usually a cylindrical component that can be easily unscrewed.
- Once removed, rinse it under warm water and use a soft brush to gently scrub off any trapped particles.
- Before reattaching the filter, check the area where it sits for any loose debris and remove it.
- Reinstall the filter by screwing it back into place.
Rinse Aid Dispenser Issues
Why does my dishwasher not dry the dishes? Rinse aid is essential for proper drying as it helps water slide off the dishes, speeding up the drying process. If your JennAir dishwasher is not drying, the rinse aid dispenser might be to blame.
Cause: The dispenser could be empty, or there could be a problem with the dispenser itself that prevents it from releasing the rinse aid.
Fix: First, check if the rinse aid dispenser is empty and refill it if needed. If that doesn’t work, you might need to replace the dispenser.

Vent and Fan Motor Problems
The JennAir dishwasher vent opens to let out the steam at the end of the washing cycle, and the fan helps this process. Any issues with these components can lead to your JennAir dishwasher not drying.
Cause: The vent could be stuck closed due to debris or a malfunction, and the fan motor could be defective.
Fix: Inspect the vent to make sure it opens properly. If not, clean it and check if it works. For the fan motor, you’ll need to test it for continuity and replace it if it’s defective.
Faulty JennAir Dishwasher Heating Element
A key player in the drying operation of your dishwasher is the heating element. If this component is not playing by the rules, this could be the main reason your JennAir dishwasher isn’t drying as it should.
Cause: The heating element can degrade or burn out over time due to regular use or even an electrical hiccup.
Fix: Check for damage on the heating element, or a technician can test the heating element using a multimeter to confirm continuity. If it proves defective, it’s time to get a replacement. Always ensure your dishwasher is unplugged before you start any repairs.
Damaged or Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat monitors the temperature inside the dishwasher during the wash and dry cycles. If it’s faulty, it might not allow the dishwasher to heat up enough, leaving your dishes wet.
Cause: Just like the heating element, the thermostat can wear out or become damaged due to electrical issues or just old age.
Fix: Again, you can use a multimeter to check the thermostat for continuity. If it’s not functioning correctly, you’ll have to replace it.
Although these solutions can be helpful, some problems may require professional attention. If you’ve tried these fixes and your JennAir dishwasher is still not drying your dishes, it might be time to call in the experts.
Same Day Service Company specializes in a wide range of home appliances, including your stubborn JennAir dishwasher not drying. With our expertise, we can accurately diagnose and fix the problem, saving you the trouble and ensuring your dishwasher is back up and running in no time. After all, while DIY solutions are great, sometimes the best course of action is to leave it to the dishwasher service and repair professionals.