The heating element in a dishwasher is used to heat the water and/or dry the dishes. If it does not function properly, it can result in unsatisfactory cleaning or the failure of a cycle to complete properly.
Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Important Safety Notice: Before testing the heating element, unplug the dishwasher or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Multimeter
- Safety gloves
- Labels or masking tape (for labeling wires)
Steps to Test the Heating Element
Step 1: Safety First
- Turn Off Power: Ensure that the dishwasher is unplugged or the circuit breaker is turned off to prevent any electrical shock.
- Turn Off Water Supply: If necessary, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Step 2: Locate the Heating Element
- Open the Dishwasher: Open the dishwasher door and remove the lower dish rack to gain clear access to the heating element.
- Locate the Heating Element: The heating element is typically found at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. If it is covered, remove any protective cover.
Step 3: Access the Heating Element Terminals
- Remove the Lower Access Panel: The terminals of the heating element extend through the bottom of the tub. To access these terminals, remove the lower access panel located beneath the dishwasher door. This panel is usually held in place with two screws either above or below the panel.
- Open the Door: Open the dishwasher door to access the screws holding the lower panel.
- Remove the Screws: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. You may need to close the door to fully remove the panel.
- Locate the Terminals: Look into the lower access area and locate where the terminals of the heating element come through the tub.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wires
- Label the Wires: Each terminal has a wire connected to it. Use labels or masking tape to mark the wires and their corresponding terminals for proper reconnection later.
- Remove Connectors: Firmly pull the connectors off the terminals. Do not pull on the wires. You may need to use needle-nose pliers to remove the connectors.
- Inspect for Corrosion: Inspect the connectors and terminals for corrosion. If either is corroded, clean or replace them as necessary.
Step 5: Test the Heating Element with a Multimeter
- Set the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (Ω) on the X1 scale.
- Test for Resistance: Touch one probe to each terminal of the heating element.
- Normal Reading: A normal reading will be somewhere between infinity and zero, typically between 10 and 100 ohms, depending on the manufacturer and model. Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for the exact specification.
- Faulty Element: If the multimeter shows infinite resistance (no continuity) or zero resistance (short circuit), the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Reassemble the Dishwasher
- Reconnect the Wires: If the heating element is functioning properly, reconnect the wires to the terminals. Ensure the connections match the labels or markings you made earlier.
- Reattach the Lower Access Panel: Replace the lower panel by securing it with screws.
- Close the Door: Ensure everything is properly aligned and close the dishwasher door.
Step 7: Test the Dishwasher
- Restore Power and Water Supply: Turn the power and water supply back on.
- Run a Test Cycle: Run a short test cycle to ensure the dishwasher operates correctly and the heating element functions properly.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to your dishwasher’s user manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Use Genuine Parts: If the heating element needs to be replaced, use genuine replacement parts for optimal performance and longevity.
- Check for Leaks: After reassembly, check for any leaks around the heating element area.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any step or if the problem persists, consider seeking help from a professional technician.
By following these steps, you can effectively test the heating element in your dishwasher to determine if it needs to be replaced. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help keep your dishwasher running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
