See the system as a whole
The diagram below explains the broad roles of major components. It is a conceptual guide, not a manufacturer wiring diagram, service schematic, refrigerant routing plan or instruction to dismantle the appliance. Your model may arrange these parts differently.
Main component roles
Use these names when describing the problem; do not remove covers to identify a part. The appliance label and owner manual are the appropriate starting point for exact model information.
| Component | What to understand |
|---|---|
| Inlet valve | Admits water at the appropriate programme stage. |
| Spray arms | Distribute wash water over the load. |
| Wash pump | Circulates water through the washing system. |
| Filter | Collects debris in a user-maintained or model-specific filter system. |
| Drain pump | Moves wastewater toward the drain connection. |
| Heater | Raises water or drying temperature where the design requires it. |
Normal operating sequence
- Fill
- Circulate and wash
- Drain and rinse
- Dry
Controls coordinate the sequence and may pause it for safety or because a sensor detects an unusual condition. A stopped cycle or error message can have several causes. The diagram cannot identify a failed component without appropriate inspection.
What you can safely observe
Scrape loose food, leave spray arms free and use dishwasher detergent. Follow your manual for user-filter cleaning and salt settings. Avoid touching broken glass inside the sump and do not reach into pumps. Stop the appliance if leakage reaches electrical areas.
Tell the technician what happens before the fault, which lights or codes appear and whether the problem is repeatable. Avoid guessing that a named component must be replaced because a similar symptom appears online.