Kitchenaid Dishwasher has a burning smell
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Valve
The drain valve will often use a solenoid to open the valve to allow the water to exit the dishwasher. Since the solenoid is an electrical component, it can short out and produce a burning smell. You should inspect the solenoid for any burn marks near the terminals. You can also use a multimeter to test the drain valve solenoid for electrical continuity to determine if the component is able to function properly. If the solenoid is faulty, the entire drain valve assembly may need to be replaced.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Heating Element
The heating element may be shorted, causing a burning smell. In most cases when the element shorts out, it will have blisters or raised sections on it; in other cases a shorted element will break in half. To determine if the heating element has burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the heating element does not have continuity, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Timer
On some dishwasher models, the timer determines when power is sent to the various components of the dishwasher. If the timer receives a power surge, or a component fails, the timer can short-out causing a burning smell. Inspect the timer for burn marks. A damaged timer will need to be replaced.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
The control board provides power to the various components of the dishwasher. If the control board receives a power surge, or a component fails, the control board can short-out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. A burnt control board will need to be replaced.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly
The circulation pump uses a motor and impeller to force water up through the wash arms during the dishwasher’s wash and rinse cycles. If the motor has burned out or is in the process of failing, it can produce a burning smell. You can often tell that a circulation pump motor has burned out if the motor isn’t making any noise or is just making a humming sound after the dishwasher has filled.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Solenoid Kit
The drain solenoid opens the drain valve to allow the water to exit the dishwasher. Since the solenoid is an electrical component, it can short out and produce a burning smell. You should inspect the solenoid for any burn marks near the terminals. You can also use a multimeter to test the solenoid for electrical continuity to determine if the component is able to function properly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
The main control board provides power to the various components of the dishwasher. If the control board receives a power surge, or a component fails, the control board can short-out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. A burnt control board will need to be replaced.
Items on Heating Element
On dishwashers with exposed heating elements, plastic or wood items like forks, spoons, and lids can fall through the racks and onto the element. When the element comes on in the dry cycle the items can melt or burn causing a smell. Remove any items that may have fallen onto the heating element.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Power Cord
If the power connections in the junction box are not secure the wire can overheat, melting the coating on the wires. Check to ensure the connections are tight and not burnt. If the connectors are burnt the wires will have to be cut and reconnected securely.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Module
The control module allows voltage to be sent to the various components of the dishwasher. If the control module receives a power surge, or a component fails, the module can short-out or overheat and cause a burning smell. Inspect the module for signs of damage or burn marks and replace if necessary.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher not drying dishes
KitchenAid Dishwasher Vent
The vent might not be opening properly. As the dishes are drying, many dishwashers use a vent to let out the hot, steamy air generated during the rinse cycle. If the vent does not open properly, the dishwasher will leave moisture on the dishes. Check the vent to ensure that it is opening properly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Turbidity Sensor
A dishwasher turbidity sensor measures the amount of food particles in the water being circulated through the appliance to help determine how long a wash or rinse cycle should last. Some sensors also incorporate a thermistor to regulate the temperature. If the sensor is faulty, it may prevent the dishwasher from entering the drying cycle.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Vent Fan Motor
Some dishwashers use a vent fan motor to help dry the dishes at the end of the cycle. If the fan motor is not working, the dishwasher won’t dry the dishes properly. To determine if the fan motor has failed, test the motor for continuity. Also, try turning the fan blade by hand to ensure that it spins freely. If the fan motor has burned out or the fan blade won’t turn smoothly, replace the vent fan motor.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Heating Element
Some dishwashers use a heating element to heat the dishwasher during the drying cycle. If the heating element has failed, the dishwasher won’t dry dishes properly. To determine if the heating element has burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the heating element does not have continuity, replace it. Note that some dishwasher heating elements have a resettable fuse that can trip, preventing voltage from reaching the element to heat it. Pressing the button on the fuse will reset it and restore power to the element
KitchenAid Dishwasher Heating Element Assembly
Some dishwashers use a heating element to heat the dishwasher during the drying cycle. If the heating element assembly has failed, the dishwasher won’t dry dishes properly. To determine if the heating element assembly has burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the heating element assembly does not have continuity, replace it. Note that some element assemblies have a resettable fuse that can trip, preventing voltage from reaching the element to heat it. Pressing the button on the fuse will reset it and restore power to the element.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Wire Harness
A wire harness allowing voltage to be sent from the dishwasher control board to a heating element could be loose or damaged and unable to provide power to the element. If this happens, the dishwasher may not be able to dry the dishes properly. You should inspect all wire harnesses for loose connections or damage, especially burn marks near the connection points, and replace if necessary.
Heated dry not selected
Not all cycles are created equal. If the dishes are coming out too wet, confirm the cycle you are using has heated dry or the heated dry option is selected.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Float Switch
The float switch is a safety device designed to shut off the water inlet valve if the dishwasher is overfilling. If the float switch is defective or stuck, it might interrupt the cleaning cycle, preventing the dishware from drying properly. You can use a multi meter to test the float switch for continuity. If the float switch is defective, replace it.
Rinse aid not being used
Although it is not as important as using detergent in the dishwasher, using rinse aid will result in better drying performance. Rinse aid is formulated to help keep the water from adhereing to the dishes and works well on plastic dishware that is often hard to dry. Most dispensers have settings to adjust the amount of rinse aid being used. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended settings.
KitchenAid Dishwasher High Limit Thermostat
The high-limit thermostat monitors the dishwasher internal temperature and shuts off the heating element if the dishwasher overheats. If the high-limit thermostat is malfunctioning, it may shut off the voltage to the heating element circuit. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the high limit thermostat check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, test the thermostat by using a multimeter to test it for continuity.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Thermostat
The thermostat monitors the dishwasher internal temperature and shuts off the heating element if the dishwasher overheats. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it may shut off the voltage to the heating element circuit. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the thermostat check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, test the thermostat by using a multimeter to check it for continuity.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Module
The control module regulates the voltage to the heating element circuit. If the control module fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. Control modules are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the control module.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
The control board regulates the voltage to the heating element circuit. If the control board fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the control board.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
The main control board regulates the voltage to the heating element circuit. If the main control board fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. main Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the main control board.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Timer
The timer regulates the voltage to the heating element circuit. If the timer fails, some components will not function properly or will not work at all. Timers are often misdiagnosed; make sure to check more commonly defective parts first before replacing the timer.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher overflowing
KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is an electrically-controlled valve that opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. Depending on the model, the valve stays open either for a set length of time or until the dishwasher has enough water. However, if the water inlet valve doesn’t shut off after the dishwasher has enough water, the dishwasher will overflow. If water drips into the dishwasher when the door is open, or if water collects at the bottom of the dishwasher while it is not use, you may need to replace the water inlet valve.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
A dishwasher’s main control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve during the drain cycle, the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher’s cycle.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly
If the lower wash arm has a crack or split on the side it can cause water to splash out the bottom of the door, giving the impression that the dishwasher is overflowing. Inspect the wash arm assembly for any damage and replace if necessary.
Wrong type or incorrect amount of detergent
Make sure to use the proper dishwasher detergent. Use the proper amount of detergent for your water hardness; too much soap in soft water can cause oversudsing and leaking.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
A dishwasher’s control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher’s cycle.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Float Switch
The float switch actuates in order to prevent the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective or stuck, it might not stop the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pressure Switch
A dishwasher pressure switch is the component that will send a signal to shut off the water inlet valve once an appropriate amount of water has entered the tank for a wash cycle. If the pressure switch is malfunctioning, it may fail to signal the inlet valve to close and cause the dishwasher to overflow. You can use a multimeter to test the pressure switch’s terminals for appropriate changes in electrical continuity before and after blowing air into the attached pressure tube. If the switch has shorted or does not test appropriately, it should be replaced.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher making noise
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Pump
First, check the drain pump to ensure that it is clear of debris. If the drain pump is clean but it is still noisy, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation Pump
The circulation pump motor has bearings that wear out over time. When the motor bearings fail, they generate a continuous drone. If the motor bearings have failed, you must replace the entire circulation pump.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Impeller
The drain impeller pushes water through the drain hose and into the garbage disposer or drain line. If the impeller is broken, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly
Part of the pump and motor assembly (such as the motor bearings, drain impeller, or wash impeller) might be defective. Often, you can replace the pump’s individual parts. However, if you do not want to disassemble the pump to replace its parts, or if the parts are not available separately, you can replace the entire pump and motor assembly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Wash Impeller
The wash impeller is a small plastic blade that forces water through the spray arms. If one or more of the impeller blades is broken, the dishwasher will make noise. In addition, if the impeller is damaged, warped, or bent, it can scape against the pump housing. Inspect the wash impeller for damage. If the wash impeller is damaged, replace it. On most models, you can replace the wash impeller independently of the pump and motor assembly. Search for your model number to determine if your impeller is replaceable. If the impeller cannot be replaced separately, you will have to replace the entire pump and motor assembly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation and Drain Pump Motor
The circulation pump motor has bearings that wear out over time. When the motor bearings fail, they generate a continuous drone. If the motor bearings have failed, replace the motor or replace the entire pump and motor assembly.
Obstructed wash arm
There are several wash arms in a dishwasher, typically one for each rack. If a handle or untensil is sticking through one of the racks the wash arm may be hitting it as it turns. Or there may be an item that is too tall and obstructing the upper wash arm. Confirm that nothing is obstructing the upper or lower wash arms.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. When it is new, the water inlet valve is very quiet during operation. Over time, the diaphragm inside the valve deteriorates and deforms. This deformation interacts with the water rushing in and can produce a loud vibration, buzzing, squealing, or other noises. If the dishwasher is loud during the filling cycle, replacing the water inlet valve may solve the problem.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation Pump Motor
If the noise is happening only during the wash cycle, it’s quite likely a worn out circulation pump motor is the cause. The circulation pump motor has an impeller and bearings that can wear out over time. When the motor bearings fail, they generate a continuous drone. If the impeller is broken or damaged, it will produce a grinding noise. If either the bearings or impeller are damaged, you must replace the entire circulation pump.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher won’t fill
KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. If the water valve is clogged or defective, water will not flow into the dishwasher. Water inlet valves are not repairable—if the valve is defective, you must replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
A dishwasher’s main control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. A faulty board may be unable to supply power to the water inlet valve, preventing it from opening and allowing the necessary water to fill the tank.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Float Switch
The float switch is a safety designed to shut off the water inlet valve if the dishwasher is overfilling. If the float switch is defective or stuck, it might stop the dishwasher from filling correctly. You can use a multi meter to test the float switch for continuity. If the float switch is defective, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
A dishwasher’s control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. A faulty board may be unable to supply power to the water inlet valve, preventing it from opening and allowing the necessary water to fill the tank.
Water Supply Problem
Over time, calcium deposits can build up in the water supply valve or in the small filter screen inside the water inlet valve. If the water inlet valve is clogged with sediments, the dishwasher won’t fill properly. Before working on the water line, first shut off the water supply. Inspect the valve to determine if it is clogged. In addition, check the water pressure to the valve. The water inlet valve requires at least 20 psi to function properly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pressure Switch
A dishwasher pressure switch is the component that will send a signal to shut off the water inlet valve once an appropriate amount of water has entered the tank for a wash cycle. If the pressure switch is malfunctioning, it may prevent the inlet valve from opening and filling the tank. You can use a multimeter to test the pressure switch’s terminals for appropriate changes in electrical continuity before and after blowing air into the attached pressure tube. If the switch does not test appropriately, it should be replaced.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher dispenser not dispensing soap
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Lever
If the dishwasher dispenser lever is broken, it can cause the dispenser not to open or close properly. Inspect the dispenser lever for damage. If the lever is broken, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Detergent Dispenser Cover
Inspect the dispenser cover for damage. If the dispenser cover is broken, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
The control board provides power to nearly every component of the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the control board, it might not send voltage to the detergent dispenser, preventing the dispenser from opening. However, this is not likely the case. Control boards are often misdiagnosed—make sure you check more commonly defective parts before replacing the control board
KitchenAid Dishwasher Detergent Container
Inspect the dishwasher detergent container for damage. If the detergent container is broken or damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Lid
Inspect the lid for damage. If the dispenser lid is broken or damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Detergent Dispenser
If a dispenser part is broken and you don’t want to disassemble the detergent dispenser to replace the part, you can replace the entire dispenser.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Door Spring
If the dispenser door spring is defective, the dispenser might not open during the wash cycle. Inspect the dispenser door spring for damage. If it is bent, broken, or damaged in any way, replace it.
If the dispenser latch is defective, the dispenser won’t open or close properly. Inspect the dispenser door latch for damage. If the latch is damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Latch
If the dispenser latch is defective, the dispenser won’t open or close properly. Inspect the dispenser door latch for damage. If the latch is damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Door Pin
If the dispenser door pin is defective, the dispenser won’t open or close properly. Inspect the dispenser door pin for damage. If the pin is damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Actuator
If the dispenser actuator is defective, the dispenser won’t open or close properly. Inspect the dispenser actuator for damage. If the dispenser actuator is damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser
If you don’t want to disassemble the dispenser to replace a part, you can replace the entire dispenser. Additionally, if the dispenser isn’t working and the entire dispenser is worn out, replace the dispenser.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Bi-Metal
The bi-metal actuator is a metal loop which acts as a latch for the dispenser door. As electricity is applied to the bi-metal, it deforms and bends away from the latch, releasing it. If the bi-metal is burned out, it won’t release the dispenser door. To determine if the bi-metal has burned out, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the bi-metal does not have continuity, replace it. In addition, make sure that the dishwasher is getting enough water. If the water level is too low, the wash motor may not draw enough current through the bimetal, causing the bimetal not to bend enough to work properly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Dispenser Slide
If the dispenser slide is damaged, the dispenser won’t open or close properly. If the slide is broken or damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly
The dishwasher’s pump and motor assembly circulates the water through the wash arms during the wash and rinse cycles. If the pump and motor assembly is defective, the wash cycle may be interrupted and the dispenser will not be activated to release the detergent. In this case, the pump and motor assembly will need to be replaced.
Improper loading
There needs to be adequate space between the dishes and the dispenser. Inadquate space can prevent the dispenser door from opening or prevent water from mixing with the detergent. If a large item is placed in front of the dispenser the detergent will not get rinsed out properly. Leave some space between the dishes and don’t place large plates or pans in front of the dispenser.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
A dishwasher’s water inlet valve opens following a short drain cycle to fill the tank with water in preparation for the wash cycle. If the inlet valve is faulty and the tank does not fill, the wash cycle may be interrupted and the dispenser will not be activated to release the detergent. In this case, the water inlet valve will need to be replaced.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
The main control board provides power to nearly every component of the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the main control board, it might not send voltage to the detergent dispenser, preventing the dispenser from opening. However, this is not likely the case. Control boards are often misdiagnosed—make sure you check more commonly defective parts before replacing the main control board.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher won’t latch
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Hinge
If the door hinges are damaged, the door won’t be able to latch properly. Inspect the door hinges for damage. If a hinge is bent or broken, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Seal
A dishwasher door having trouble latching could be caused by a damaged or misaligned door seak. Confirm the seal is fully seated in its track and replace if necessary.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Spring
A dishwasher door spring is attached to a cable to prevent the door from dropping down when opened and to allow the door to be more easily closed and latched. If the door feels heavy when opened or falls quickly, a broken door spring or cable is likely the cause. If the damaged component is not replaced, the strain on the door hinge can lead to hinge failure which can result in the door not latching properly. It is recommended to replace both door springs at the same time to reduce uneven wear.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Latch
Inspect the door latch assembly for damage. If the door latch is broken, replace it. The door latch is not repairable—if it is broken, you must replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Cable
A dishwasher door cable is attached to a spring to prevent the door from dropping down when opened and to allow the door to be more easily closed and latched. If the door feels heavy when opened or falls quickly, a broken door cable or spring is likely the cause. If the damaged component is not replaced, the strain on the door hinge can lead to hinge failure which can result in the door not latching properly. It is recommended to replace both door cables at the same time to reduce uneven wear.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Strike
Inspect the door strike assembly for damage. If the door strike is broken, replace it. The door strike is not repairable—if it is broken, you must replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Gasket
A dishwasher door having trouble latching could be caused by a damaged or misaligned door gasket. Confirm the gasket is fully seated in its track and replace if necessary.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher won’t start
KitchenAid Dishwasher Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse shuts off power to the dishwasher if it overheats. If the thermal fuse blows, it will prevent the dishwasher from starting. To determine if the thermal fuse is defective, use a multimeter to test the fuse for continuity. If the thermal fuse does not have continuity, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Switch
The door switch prevents the dishwasher from running while the door is open. If the door switch is defective, the switch will prevent the dishwasher from running even when the door is closed. To determine if the door switch is at fault, use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Wire Harness
If the dishwasher start button appears to work, but the dishwasher still won’t start, a wire harness which sends power from the control board to the pump components could be damaged. Inspect the wire harness for any frayed or broken wires and replace if necessary.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Latch
The door latch ensures that the dishwasher door latches shut. If the door does not latch properly, the door switch might prevent the dishwasher from running. If the door latch is broken, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board
The main control board provides power to nearly every component of the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the main control board, it might not send voltage to the dishwasher, causing the dishwasher not to start. Control boards are often misdiagnosed—make sure you check more commonly defective parts before replacing the main control board.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Pump
A dishwasher drain pump assists in removing the water from the tank at various times during operation. Since the unit will drain some water from the tank prior to the fill cycle beginning, a faulty drain pump unable to drain any water could prevent the dishwasher from starting.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad and Control Panel
To determine if the touchpad is at fault, try pressing various buttons on the touchpad. If some of the buttons don’t respond, the touchpad might be defective. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad
To determine if the touchpad is at fault, try pressing various buttons on the touchpad. If some of the buttons don’t respond, the touchpad might be defective. If the touchpad isn’t working properly, replace it. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
Incoming Power Problem
If there are no indicator lights or any noise from the dishwasher when it is turned on, it is likely that power is not reaching the dishwasher. Check the circuit breakers and GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets, if applicable, to confirm they have not tripped, or inspect any fuses to confirm none have blown. Since most dishwashers are hardwired (not plugged in) the junction box on the dishwasher should be checked for loose or burnt wires.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly
A defective dishwasher pump and motor assembly may prevent the appliance from starting. Make sure that power is getting to the circulation pump and motor. If power is getting to the pump and motor assembly but it still won’t run, replace the pump and motor assembly.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board
A dishwasher’s control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. A faulty board may be unable to supply power to the electrical components or respond to the touchpad buttons being pressed, which can prevent dishwasher from starting.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Timer
The timer allows power to flow to the proper parts at the proper times. If the timer isn’t working properly, it might not send voltage to the dishwasher, causing it not to start. Timers are often misdiagnosed—make sure you check more commonly defective parts before replacing the timer.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation Pump
A defective dishwasher circulation pump may prevent the appliance from starting. Make sure that power is getting to the circulation pump and motor. If power is getting to the circulation pump but it still won’t run, replace the component.
KitchenAid Dishwasher User Control and Display Board
A dishwasher’s user control and display board allows the user to select a wash and drying cycle and start the appliance. If the start button won’t work, it’s likely the user control and display board is malfunctioning and will need to be replaced with a new one.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher leaking from motor area
KitchenAid Dishwasher Shaft Seal
First, try to determine the source of the leak. If the water is leaking from the motor shaft area, the motor shaft seal is likely defective. If the seal is defective, replace it. (Some manufacturers sell the seal independently of the impeller. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the impeller and seal together. Still other manufacturers require that you purchase the entire pump and motor assembly instead of the impeller and seal. It is more cost effective to replace the seal kit rather than the impeller and seal.)
KitchenAid Dishwasher Impeller and Seal Kit
First, try to determine the source of the leak. If the water is leaking from the motor shaft area, the motor shaft seal is likely defective. If the seal is defective, replace it. (Some manufacturers sell the seal independently of the impeller. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the impeller and seal together. Still other manufacturers require that you purchase the entire pump and motor assembly instead of the impeller and seal. It is usually more cost effective to replace the impeller and seal kit rather than the pump and motor assembly.)
KitchenAid Dishwasher Seal Kit
First, try to determine the source of the leak. If the water is leaking from the motor shaft area, the motor shaft seal is likely defective. If the seal is defective, replace it. (Some manufacturers sell the seal independently of the impeller. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the impeller and seal together. Still other manufacturers require that you purchase the entire pump and motor assembly instead of the impeller and seal. It is more cost effective to replace the seal kit rather than the impeller and seal.)
Kitchenaid Dishwasher leaking
KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. If the water inlet valve is stuck open, the dishwasher will continue to fill with water until the dishwasher leaks or overflows. If the water inlet valve is at fault, replace it. Water inlet valves are not repairable—if the valve is defective, you must replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Assembly
If the wash arm is cracked, it can allow a jet of water to spray toward the door seal, causing a leak. Remove the wash arm and inspect it for cracks. If the wash arm is cracked, replace it. Do not attempt to seal the crack with glue—the glue will break down in the dishwasher. If the wash arm is intact, make sure the screws in the wash arm support are tight. If the wash arm support is loose, water can spray out between the wash arm support and the lower pump housing, causing waves. These waves can cause water to leak out of the bottom of the door.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly
If the wash arm is cracked, it can force water to spray directly toward the lower part of the dishwasher door. The water can then be forced under the door and onto the floor, causing a leak. Remove the wash arm and inspect it for cracks. If the wash arm is cracked, replace it. Do not attempt to seal the crack with glue—the glue will break down in the dishwasher. If the wash arm is intact, make sure the screws in the wash arm support are tight. If the wash arm support is loose, water can spray out between the wash arm support and the lower pump housing, causing waves. These waves can cause water to leak out of the bottom of the door.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Upper Wash Arm Assembly
If the upper wash arm is cracked, it can force water to spray directly toward the dishwasher door seal, causing a leak. Remove the wash arm and inspect it for cracks. If the wash arm is cracked, replace it. Do not attempt to seal the crack with glue—the glue will break down in the dishwasher. If the wash arm is intact, make sure the screws in the wash arm support are tight. If the wash arm support is loose, water can spray out between the wash arm support and the lower pump housing, causing waves. These waves can cause water to leak out of the bottom of the door.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Seal
Look for tears, gaps or cuts in the seal that could cause a dishwasher door leak. To determine if the door seal is making good contact, try closing the dishwasher door on a dollar bill all the way around the door. If the dollar bill does not stick, there is a gap in the seal. If the door seal has any gaps or leaks, replace it. If the door seal is working properly but the dishwasher is still leaking, check the door hinges. If the hinges are bent, the door will not close properly, creating a gap between the door seal and the dishwasher. If the hinges are bent, replace them.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Detergent Dispenser
A dishwasher detergent dispenser releases detergent into the tank during the wash cycle. Some dispensers with a rotating cover, or a latch, have an O-ring or seal that can wear out and allow water to leak inbetween the door panels and onto the floor near the bottom of the door.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Door Gasket
Look for tears, gaps or cuts in the gasket that could cause a dishwasher door leak. To determine if the door gasket is making good contact, try closing the dishwasher door on a dollar bill all the way around the door. If the dollar bill does not stick, there is a gap in the gasket. If the door gasket has any gaps or leaks, replace it. If the door gasket is working properly but the dishwasher is still leaking, check the door hinges. If the hinges are bent, the door will not close properly, creating a gap between the door gasket and the dishwasher. If the hinges are bent, replace them.
Wrong type or incorrect amount of detergent
Make sure to use the proper dishwasher detergent. Use the proper amount of detergent for your water hardness; too much soap in soft water can cause oversudsing and leaking.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Pump
A dishwasher drain pump assists in removing the water from the tank during the drain cycles by using an impeller to force or push the water through a drain hose to the garbage disposal or a sink drain pipe. If the drain pump is cracked or damaged, the dishwasher can leak water behind the lower panel beneath the dishwasher tank.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Hose
A dishwasher leak behind the lower access panel could be caused by damaged drain hose. Confirm the hose is secured to the drain pump outlet port and check for any cracks or holes in the hose itself. Replace a damaged drain hose with a new one.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump
Most dishwashers have a large bowl, or sump, which collects the water that enters the pump. The sump is lined with a rubber seal that prevents water from leaking between the sump and the dishwasher tub. If the sump seal is worn out, the sump will leak water. If the sump seal is leaking water, replace it. In addition, on some dishwashers, a lock ring secures the sump to the bottom of the tub. If the lock ring is cracked or damaged, replace it.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation Pump
A dishwasher circulation pump circulates the water through the spray arms to wash the dishware. If the pump is cracked or damaged, or a seal is worn out, the dishwasher can leak water behind the lower access panel.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly
A dishwasher pump and motor assembly circulates the water through the spray arms to wash the dishware. If the assembly is cracked or damaged, or a seal is worn out, the dishwasher can leak water behind the lower panel beneath the dishwasher tank.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Diverter Motor
A dishwasher’s diverter motor operates a diverter disc to redirect the water to the upper spray arm or arms. If the motor itself is damaged, it can potentially leak water behind the lower access panel. Inspect the motor housing for any cracks and replace if necessary.
