Begin the troubleshooting process by disconnecting the dishwasher drain hose from either the air gap or the garbage disposal, depending on your setup. If an air gap is absent, the connection would be to the garbage disposal. To check for drainage issues, pour water through the drain hose and observe if it backs up into the dishwasher tub. If there is a backflow, it indicates a potential failure of the check valve in the drain hose connected to the drain pump. In such cases, consider replacing the affected portion of the drain hose to rectify the issue.
Service Diagnostics Test:
If water does not back up into the dishwasher during the drain hose test, proceed to reconnect the hose. Initiate the Service Diagnostics Test following the instructions outlined in the tech sheet provided with your dishwasher. During this test, observe the soil level indicated during the Optical Water Indicator (OWI) test in diagnostic mode. If a high soil level is detected, unplug the dishwasher and perform a thorough cleaning of the OWI sensor.
Cleaning the OWI Sensor:
While the dishwasher is unplugged, attend to the OWI sensor. Clean any debris or residue that may have accumulated, ensuring optimal sensor functionality. Once the cleaning is complete, reassemble the dishwasher, plug it back in to restore electrical power, and rerun the diagnostic test cycle. This step allows the electronic control board to calibrate the OWI sensor for accurate readings during the next cycle.
Thermistor/OWI Sensor Replacement:
If, after the above steps, the error code persists, consider replacing the thermistor/OWI sensor. This component is critical for temperature regulation and water level control during the dishwasher’s operation. A replacement ensures the seamless functioning of these essential processes.
Professional Assistance:
Given the intricacies of dishwasher components, if uncertainty persists or if the error code endures, seeking professional assistance is advisable. Our team at Appliance Repair Los Angeles is ready to conduct meticulous inspections, perform necessary replacements, and ensure your dishwasher operates at peak performance.