If your dishwasher isn’t heating up as it should, it’s possible that you may need to replace the heating element. Are you having a problem with your dishwasher not getting hot enough to clean dishes properly? Before calling a pricey repair technician or replacing the entire appliance, you might want to try fixing what may be the problem: the heating element.
Replacing this part is relatively easy to do and usually much less costly than other alternatives. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to replace your dishwasher’s heating element quickly and easily in just simple steps on how to replace heating element in dishwasher!
With just a few tools, patience, and knowledge of household appliances, you’ll have hot water running through your dishes in no time!
Why Do You Need to Replace the Heating Element in Dishwasher?
1. Damage
Generally, the heating element inside a dishwasher will last around 7-10 years. However, there are times when it may need to be replaced sooner due to wear and tear.
Signs that you may need to replace the element include dishes not getting clean as they should, especially noticing food particles stuck on plates or silverware after washing; water does not get hot during the cycle; or if you notice any rust around the element.
2. Technical Problems
This isn’t always the case, however. If your dishwasher has been having trouble heating water, it may be a technical issue that requires replacing the heating element. This could be caused by a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or a faulty thermostat.
Required Items
To replace the heating element in your dishwasher, you will need the following items:
- Dishwasher heating element
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Wire cutters
- Pliers
- Electrical tape
- A friend or family to help (optional)
10 Steps on How to Replace Heating Element in Dishwasher
Once you have all the necessary items, it’s time to get started.
Step 1: Unplug the Dishwasher & Remove Its Cover
First things first, unplug your dishwasher from the wall socket and open up its cover in order to gain access to the heating element. This can be done by removing screws from either the top or bottom of the unit. Be careful not to damage any wires or connections while doing this.
Step 2: Disconnect Wiring
Once you have access to the heating element, disconnect all wiring attached to it. These can be easily identified by their color-coded ends and usually require a Phillips head screwdriver for removal.
Step 3: Remove the Heating Element
Use your Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that are holding the heating element in place. Once these have been removed, you can carefully lift out the element and set it aside.
Step 4: Install a New Heating Element
Take your new heating element and put it in the same place as the old one. Be sure to double-check that all wiring is properly connected before securing this with the two screws you previously removed.
Step 5: Secure Wiring Connections
Once the element is securely in place, use wire cutters and pliers to secure the wiring connections. You may also need to use electrical tape to ensure that the connections are sealed properly.
Step 6: Reattach Dishwasher Cover
Now that all the connections have been secured, you can reattach the cover of your dishwasher. Make sure this is done securely and correctly before continuing on to the next step.
Step 7: Test Heating Element
Turn on the dishwasher and let it run for a few minutes. When you open up the door, use your hand to feel if the heating element is hot. If so, this indicates that you have installed it properly and can move on to the next step.
Step 8: Turn Off Dishwasher & Replug It
Once the heating element has been tested and is working properly, you can turn off your dishwasher and plug it back into the wall.
Step 9: Check for Leaks
Now it’s time to check for any leaks that may have occurred during the installation process. Open up the door and look around for any signs of water dripping or leaking. If so, you may need to tighten the connections or apply more electrical tape for extra protection against water.
Step 10: Enjoy Hot Water in Your Dishes!
Once all of these steps have been completed, you can enjoy hot water in your dishes once again! You should now be able to get your dishes clean and spot-free without any issues.
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the heating element in your dishwasher. With just a few tools, some patience, and knowledge of household appliances, you have saved yourself time and money by doing this job yourself!
8 Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s important to keep in mind that replacing the heating element in a dishwasher can be a tricky task. To ensure you don’t make any costly mistakes, here are 8 common mistakes to avoid:
- Not turning off the electricity. Make sure to turn off both the circuit breaker and unplug the dishwasher before beginning any repair work. Also, make sure to wear rubber gloves for extra safety.
- Not verifying the correct part before replacing it. This is especially true if you’re ordering replacement parts online, as there are often a number of different types and sizes available. Before attempting to install your new heating element, double-check that it’s exactly the same as the old one by checking its size, shape, and wiring.
- Not testing the electric connection once you’ve made it. Once you have replaced the heating element, use a multimeter to make sure that all the electrical connections are secure before plugging in your dishwasher again. This simple step could save you a lot of trouble down the line!
- Not replacing both electrodes if they are corroded. The heating element typically contains two electrodes, and if either of them is corroded or degraded, it’s best to replace both of them at the same time. This will ensure that your new heater element runs as efficiently as possible.
- Not cleaning underneath the dishwasher. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, so make sure to clean out all the nooks and crannies before re-installing the heating element.
- Not tightening the screws properly. The screws securing the heating element should be tightly tightened to ensure that it is securely in place and will not cause any damage to your dishwasher over time.
- Not checking for water leaks after installing the new element. Be sure to check for any water leaks before plugging your dishwasher back in and running it. If you notice any water, tighten the screws again until the leak is gone.
- Not replacing old gaskets or seals. If you notice that the gasket or seal around the heating element is worn out or cracked, be sure to replace it with a new one to prevent water damage in the future.
By keeping these 8 mistakes in mind, you can be sure to replace your heating element quickly and safely with minimal hassle!
5 Tips for Maintaining Your Dishwasher’s Heating Element
- Make sure to clean off any residue from the heating element on occasion. This will help ensure that your dishwasher runs efficiently and that the heating element is not damaged by any dirt or debris.
- Check for signs of wear and tear on the heating element regularly. If you notice any cracks, corrosion, or other damage to the element, replace it immediately.
- Be sure to double-check all wiring connections after installing a new heating element. This will help ensure that all electricity is safely transferred and that your dishwasher runs correctly.
- Make sure to clean the inside of your dishwasher regularly. This will help keep any build-up of dirt or debris from damaging the heating element over time.
- Use a multimeter to test for electric current periodically. This will give you peace of mind that everything is running as it should be and that you won’t run into any unexpected problems.
By following these tips, you can be sure to keep your dishwasher running at its best for years to come!
Conclusion
Replacing a heating element in your dishwasher is an important process to keep your machine running smoothly and correctly. By following all of the steps outlined above, you’ll be sure to successfully replace your heating element and have your dishwasher working properly in no time.
It’s also a great idea to take some extra time and do some research both online and on the manufacturer’s websites so that you feel more prepared when it comes time to replace the heating element.
At the end of the day, a little research and preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a successful repair job. Plus, with the help of this article on how to replace heating element in dishwasher, you now know exactly what needs to be done so that you can start replacing your dishwasher’s heating element tonight!