Dishwasher Soap Pods Not Dissolving

Soap pods not dissolving can be incredibly frustrating. Follow the steps below to work through the most likely causes and culprits.

Dishwasher pods are designed to dissolve and activate at specific water temperatures. Verify your dishwasher is set to the manufacturer's recommended level, usually between 120°F-140°F (49°C-60°C).

The circulation pump moves water from the bottom of the dishwasher back up and through the spray arms. When this pump fails, water doesn't reach and dissolve the soap pod.

• Test the circulation pump by starting a cycle or initiating a diagnostic mode.
• Open the door after water has filled, and see if water is dripping from the spray arms and the spray arms are spinning.
• If there is a pool of water at the bottom of the dishwasher, your circulation pump is likely faulty. Remove and test the pump with a multimeter before replacing.

Improper placement of the dishwasher pod can also affect whether it can fully dissolve. Most dishwashers have a dispenser located in the main wash compartment or a separate pod dispenser.

• Place the pod in the correct compartment.

The detergent dispenser in your dishwasher may be faulty or malfunctioning. If it's not opening or releasing the pod at the appropriate time during the wash cycle, the pod won't dissolve as intended.

• Inspect the dispenser for damage or obstructions.
• Replace if necessary.

The detergent dispenser itself could be blocked or clogged, preventing the pod from releasing properly during the wash cycle.

• Check the dispenser for any debris, residue, or obstructions, and clean thoroughly.
  • That's correct, your soap dispenser may need cleaning.

If the dishwasher's spray arms or jets are clogged with food and other debris, the water may not reach the soap pod effectively, preventing it from dissolving.

• Inspect the spray arms and ensure they are free from any debris or obstructions. Clean them if necessary.
• If there are cracks in the spray arms, replace them.

If you rinse your dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, the soap pod may not dissolve properly because it's designed to work with food particles.

• Wipe most of the food off dishes, but leave enough residue for the soap pod to interact with the dirty dishes as intended.
• Pre-rinsing wastes a lot of water.

Different dishwasher detergents may have varying abilities to dissolve and clean.

• View a list of reviewed soap pods and purchase one proven to clean, or simply try another brand.

Dishwasher pods have a shelf life. When old or expired, they may lose their effectiveness and fail to dissolve properly.

• Check the expiration date on the packaging, and use fresh pods.

If you're storing your dishwasher pods in a humid or moist environment, they may absorb moisture and become clumpy, making them less likely to dissolve properly.

• Store the pods in a cool, dry place, away from excessive moisture.

Hard water can interfere with the effectiveness of dishwasher pods. The minerals in hard water can form a film or residue on dishes, making it difficult for the soap pod to dissolve.

• Use water softener or a dishwasher detergent specifically formulated for hard water.
• If you have a water softener system in your home, verify that it is functioning.

If you overload the dishwasher with too many dishes or overcrowd the utensil holder, it can obstruct the water flow and prevent the pod from dissolving properly.

• Load the dishwasher according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Leave enough space for the water to circulate freely.

Low water pressure could be affecting how much water in entering your dishwasher. You can check your water pressure by following these steps.

• Pull the machine away from the wall.
• Disconnect the water inlet valve from the water supply.
• Open the water supply valve and see if pressure is at least 20 psi.
• Call a plumber if water pressure seems low.

Different wash cycles operate at different temperatures. Select the appropriate wash cycle for your detergent.

Frigidaire Dishwasher Self Diagnostic Mode