How to Replace a Standard Dishwasher Lower Sprayer Arm

The dishwasher sprayer arms are the primary cleaning power of your dishwasher. They are what sprays water at high velocity, blasting food off your dishes and covering them in soapy water. So when your lower sprayer arm stops working and your dishes stop getting clean, something must be done. If you found this article, you’re prepared to replace that lower sprayer arm. And we’re here to help you. 

Try Cleaning First

Okay, before you take out and toss your lower sprayer arm, try a quick cleaning trick. Sometimes, dishwasher sprayer arms stop working because hard water minerals build up in the nozzles. The tiny sprayer holes get clogged. The best way to clear them is with vinegar. Wipe down your sprayer arms with a sponge soaked in vinegar, then run the washer on hot with an upright cup of vinegar in the upper rack. If this fixes your problem, you don’t need to replace the sprayer arm.

But if it doesn’t work, here’s how to replace the sprayer arm: 

Removing the Lower Dishwasher Sprayer Arm

Remove the Lower Dish Rack

Start by getting the lower dish rack out of the way. Pull it all the way out. When it reaches the full extent, flip the little latches at the end of the track to release the wheels and then fully remove the rack and set it aside. Push the tracks back in to get them out of the way.

Twist The Sprayer Arm Mounting Bracket Counter-Clockwise

The sprayer arm in many dishwashers is secured with a simple plastic bracket that twists to release. However, yours may be the type fastened with a bold. If you have a simple plastic release, twist it counter-clockwise about 1/4 of the way around. You should feel the sprayer arm release. If your sprayer arm is attached with a bolt, you may need a wrench to loosen it instead.

Pull the Lower Sprayer Arm Free

Now you can remove the broken lower sprayer arm. Pull it from the post and throw it away. 

Installing a New Lower Dishwasher Sprayer Arm

Place the New Arm Into the Socket

Take your new lower sprayer arm, selected based on the make and model of your dishwasher. Remove all the packaging, ensuring there is nothing inside the center. Then place it into the socket and settle it into place.

Press Down

Press the lower sprayer arm firmly down into the socket. You should feel it seat completely on the pump outlet.

Rotate the Bracket Clockwise to Lock

If you have a basic plastick locking bracket, twist it clockwise the same rotation until you feel the sprayer arm lock and seal. If your dishwasher has a different kind of fastener, then tighten the nut or however you removed it in the first place. These pieces are often intuitive if you have the right tool.

Return the Lower Dish Rack

Finally, return the lower dish rack. Fully extend the track and line up the wheels. Slide the wheels carefully into place and then push rack all the way back. Flip the clips back into the ends of the tracks to close off the dishwasher 

Test Your Success

Congratulations, that should be everything. Now it’s time to test out your new sprayer arm. Place a dirty dish in the bottom rack and run your dishwasher on a short cycle. If all turns out well, then pat yourself on the back. You have just completed a simple dishwasher repair that wills ave you a serious plumbing bill.For more smart repair tips from washing machines to refrigerators, contact us today or dig deeper into our helpful repair archives.