What To Know
- A heating element is a crucial component of a Whirlpool dishwasher, responsible for heating the water used to clean dishes.
- Locate the lower access panel on the front of the dishwasher and remove the screws that hold it in place.
- Remove the screws that hold the heating element in place and lift it out of the dishwasher tub.
A heating element is a crucial component of a Whirlpool dishwasher, responsible for heating the water used to clean dishes. Without a properly functioning heating element, your dishwasher will not be able to effectively clean your dishes, leaving them dirty and potentially harboring bacteria.
Types of Heating Elements in Whirlpool Dishwashers
There are two main types of heating elements used in Whirlpool dishwashers:
- Coil-type heating elements: These are the most common type of heating element and consist of a coil of metal wire that is heated by an electrical current.
- Calrod-type heating elements: These are less common and consist of a ceramic tube with a metal heating element inside.
Troubleshooting a Faulty Heating Element
If you suspect that your Whirlpool dishwasher‘s heating element is not working properly, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem:
1. Check the power supply: Make sure that the dishwasher is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on.
2. Reset the dishwasher: Sometimes, a simple reset can fix the problem. To reset the dishwasher, unplug it from the power outlet and wait for a few minutes before plugging it back in.
3. Check the heating element: If the power supply and reset do not fix the problem, you may need to check the heating element itself. To do this, you will need to remove the dishwasher’s lower access panel and locate the heating element. Once you have located the heating element, you can use a multimeter to test its continuity. If the heating element is not continuous, it will need to be replaced.
Replacing a Heating Element in a Whirlpool Dishwasher
If you have determined that the heating element in your Whirlpool dishwasher needs to be replaced, you can follow these steps:
1. Unplug the dishwasher: Before you begin any work on the dishwasher, be sure to unplug it from the power outlet.
2. Remove the lower access panel: Locate the lower access panel on the front of the dishwasher and remove the screws that hold it in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the panel off.
3. Locate the heating element: The heating element is located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. It is usually held in place by a few screws.
4. Disconnect the heating element: Disconnect the wires from the heating element. Be sure to note which wire goes to which terminal.
5. Remove the heating element: Remove the screws that hold the heating element in place and lift it out of the dishwasher tub.
6. Install the new heating element: Place the new heating element into the dishwasher tub and secure it with the screws.
7. Reconnect the heating element: Reconnect the wires to the heating element. Be sure to connect the wires to the correct terminals.
8. Reinstall the lower access panel: Replace the lower access panel and secure it with the screws.
9. Plug in the dishwasher: Plug the dishwasher back into the power outlet.
Maintenance Tips for Heating Elements in Whirlpool Dishwashers
To help keep the heating element in your Whirlpool dishwasher functioning properly, you can follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the dishwasher regularly: Regularly cleaning the dishwasher will help to remove food residue and other debris that can build up on the heating element.
- Use a dishwasher cleaner: Using a dishwasher cleaner every few months can help to remove mineral deposits and other buildup from the heating element.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can put strain on the heating element and cause it to overheat.
- Don’t wash dishes with food residue: Food residue can build up on the heating element and cause it to overheat. Be sure to scrape off any food residue from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
Final Note: The Importance of a Properly Functioning Heating Element
A properly functioning heating element is essential for a Whirlpool dishwasher to effectively clean dishes. By following the troubleshooting, replacement, and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can help to keep your dishwasher’s heating element in good working order and ensure that your dishes are always clean and sanitized.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: How do I know if the heating element in my Whirlpool dishwasher is not working?
A: There are a few signs that may indicate that the heating element in your Whirlpool dishwasher is not working, including:
- The dishes are not getting clean.
- The water in the dishwasher is not getting hot.
- The dishwasher is making a strange noise.
- The dishwasher is leaking water.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: The cost to replace a 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.
Q: How often should I replace the heating element in my Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: The heating element in a Whirlpool dishwasher should last for several years. However, if you notice any of the signs of a faulty heating element, you should have it replaced as soon as possible.
