Is the washer level? 

When the washer is not on a pedestal, all four feet need to be in firm contact with the floor. Try rocking the washer diagonally, from corner to corner, with your hands; adjust the feet if the washer teeters. The lock nuts on all four feet should be tightened against the washer cabinet. 

If the washer is not properly leveled, water may not reach the detergent or flush the dispenser correctly. 

Was powdered detergent used? 

Clean the dispenser when caked detergent is present. Older detergent exposed to air will clump and not dissolve well. Replace the detergent if necessary and store it in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place. 

Were detergent pods used? 

Single-dose laundry Packets (Pods) are low-sing HE detergents that deliver great cleaning, can prevent detergent overdose / oversudsing, and are easy and quick to use. Always place them in the tub or basket of your washer. Never place them in detergent dispensers.