A leaky dishwasher can be a major headache, not to mention a waste of water and energy. If you’ve noticed water pooling around the bottom of your Whirlpool dishwasher, the culprit may be a damaged lower door seal. Replacing the seal is a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with the right tools and a little patience.
Tools and Materials
Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:
- New Whirlpool dishwasher lower door seal
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver or putty knife
- Towel or sponge
- Bucket
Safety Precautions
Before beginning any repair, make sure to unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet. Also, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Step 1: Remove the Lower Dishrack
Pull out the lower dishrack as far as it will go. Then, lift the front edge of the dishrack and slide it out of the dishwasher.
Step 2: Remove the Lower Door Panel
Locate the screws that secure the lower door panel to the dishwasher. Typically, there are two screws on each side. Remove these screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the lower door panel up and off the dishwasher.
Step 3: Remove the Old Door Seal
Using a flathead screwdriver or putty knife, carefully pry the old door seal out of the groove around the inside of the dishwasher door. Be careful not to damage the dishwasher door.
Step 4: Clean the Groove
Once the old door seal is removed, clean the groove around the inside of the dishwasher door thoroughly. Remove any dirt, debris, or old sealant.
Step 5: Install the New Door Seal
Take the new door seal and position it in the groove around the inside of the dishwasher door. Make sure that the seal is seated properly and that there are no gaps.
Step 6: Reinstall the Lower Door Panel
Align the lower door panel with the dishwasher and carefully lift it into place. Secure the panel with the screws that you removed earlier.
Step 7: Reinstall the Lower Dishrack
Slide the lower dishrack back into the dishwasher and lower it into place.
Step 8: Test the Seal
Plug the dishwasher back into the power outlet and turn on the water supply. Run a short wash cycle to test the seal. If there are no leaks, you have successfully replaced the lower door seal.
Tips for Success
- Use a new door seal that is specifically designed for your Whirlpool dishwasher model.
- Make sure that the groove around the inside of the dishwasher door is clean and free of debris before installing the new seal.
- Be careful not to overtighten the screws when securing the lower door panel.
- If you are not comfortable replacing the door seal yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Troubleshooting
- If the dishwasher is still leaking after replacing the door seal:
- Check to make sure that the seal is properly seated and that there are no gaps.
- Inspect the dishwasher door for any damage that could be causing the leak.
- Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.
- If the dishwasher is not draining properly after replacing the door seal:
- Check to make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged.
- Clean the dishwasher filter.
- Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.
Beyond Replacing the Lower Door Seal
If you are experiencing other problems with your Whirlpool dishwasher, such as not washing dishes properly or not starting, there are a number of other repairs that you may need to perform. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:
- Dishwasher not washing dishes properly: Check the water supply to the dishwasher, clean the dishwasher filter, and inspect the spray arms for any clogs.
- Dishwasher not starting: Check the power supply to the dishwasher, reset the circuit breaker or fuse, and check the door latch.
- Dishwasher making strange noises: Inspect the dishwasher for any loose parts or debris, and check the drain hose for any clogs.
If you are not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How often should I replace the door seal on my Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: The door seal should be replaced every 3-5 years, or more often if it becomes damaged or worn.
Q: Can I use a different type of door seal than the one that is specifically designed for my Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: No, it is important to use a door seal that is specifically designed for your Whirlpool dishwasher model. Using a different type of seal may not provide a proper fit and could cause leaks.
Q: How can I prevent the door seal from becoming damaged or worn?
A: To prevent the door seal from becoming damaged or worn, avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges on the seal. Also, do not overload the dishwasher or force the door closed.
