Exposed: the secret to resetting your whirlpool dishwasher’s heating element
What To Know
- If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not heating the water, it could be due to a problem with the heating element.
- Once the cover is in place, plug in the dishwasher and turn on the water supply.
- Resetting the heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher is a relatively simple process that can be completed in under an hour.
A dishwasher is an essential appliance in any modern kitchen, and when it’s not working properly, it can be a major inconvenience. One common problem that can occur is a faulty heating element. If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not heating the water, it could be due to a problem with the heating element. Fortunately, resetting the heating element is a relatively simple process that you can do yourself.
1. Safety First
Before you begin, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Make sure that the dishwasher is unplugged and the water supply is turned off. Also, allow the dishwasher to cool down completely before you start working on it.
2. Locate the Heating Element
The heating element is located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. It is usually covered by a metal plate or a plastic cover. Remove the cover to access the heating element.
3. Disconnect the Wires
Once you have access to the heating element, disconnect the wires that are connected to it. There will usually be two wires, one black and one white. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the wires in place.
4. Remove the Heating Element
Once the wires are disconnected, you can remove the heating element. It is usually held in place by two or three screws. Remove the screws and lift the heating element out of the dishwasher tub.
5. Inspect the Heating Element
Once you have removed the heating element, inspect it for any damage. Look for any cracks, breaks, or burns. If you find any damage, the heating element will need to be replaced.
6. Clean the Heating Element
If the heating element is not damaged, you can clean it to remove any mineral deposits or other debris that may have accumulated on it. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to clean the heating element.
7. Reinstall the Heating Element
Once the heating element is clean, reinstall it in the dishwasher tub. Make sure that the heating element is properly seated and that the wires are securely connected.
8. Replace the Cover
Once the heating element is reinstalled, replace the cover or metal plate that you removed earlier.
9. Plug in the Dishwasher and Turn on the Water Supply
Once the cover is in place, plug in the dishwasher and turn on the water supply. Run the dishwasher through a cycle to test the heating element.
10. Troubleshooting
If the dishwasher is still not heating the water, there may be another problem. Here are a few things you can check:
- The thermostat may be faulty.
- The control board may be malfunctioning.
- The wiring may be damaged.
If you are not comfortable troubleshooting the dishwasher yourself, you should call a qualified appliance repair technician.
How to Prevent Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element Problems
There are a few things you can do to help prevent problems with the heating element in your Whirlpool dishwasher:
- Use a dishwasher detergent that is specifically designed for dishwashers.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher.
- Run the dishwasher through a cleaning cycle once a month.
- Have the dishwasher serviced by a qualified appliance repair technician once a year.
Key Points: Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element Reset
Resetting the heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher is a relatively simple process that can be completed in under an hour. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself the cost of calling a repair technician.
Answers to Your Questions
1. How do I know if the heating element in my Whirlpool dishwasher is faulty?
There are a few signs that may indicate a faulty heating element:
- The dishwasher is not heating the water.
- The dishwasher is taking longer than usual to wash dishes.
- The dishes are not coming out clean.
2. Can I replace the heating element in my Whirlpool dishwasher myself?
Yes, you can replace the heating element in your Whirlpool dishwasher yourself. However, it is important to note that this is a potentially dangerous task and should only be attempted by someone who is comfortable working with electrical appliances.
3. How much does it cost to replace the heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher?
The cost to replace the heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher will vary depending on the model of the dishwasher and the cost of the replacement part. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for the part and labor.