Like all other kitchen appliances, the dishwasher has its importance for the owner. Due to its size and the number of control panels, it can be intimidating to operate and even more daunting if it breaks down. Since, unlike other home appliances, the breakdown of the dishwasher does not affect our daily routine, you have ample amount of time to understand its essential working and repair solutions. Although it is big, its parts can be removed and replaced easily, allowing you to quickly repair/replace the part yourself without calling a professional.
Here are some of the Frigidaire dishwasher troubleshooting suggestions that you can try at home when your dishwasher malfunctions or stops running altogether:
Issue # 1 Dishwasher Is Overflowing
Basics – The dishwasher has a float assembly, a tube-shaped device that monitors the amount of water in the appliance. It can stop working due to several reasons, 1. Use of too much or cheap detergent, 2. Gasket failing, 3. A defective water inlet valve or 4. Faulty float switch or sensor. This can result in an overflowing of water and bubbly on the kitchen floor.
Solution
1. Unstick the Float Manually
The float switch is easy to locate in the dishwasher. It is present under the kickplate panel, below the dishwasher door. See if it is stuck and try to move it up and down few times to function correctly. If it can move freely, it will start working. Else it needs to be replaced.
2. Check the Overfill Float Switch
The overfill float switch is a small relay switch that trips when the water level gets above a certain level. To see if it is functioning correctly, Lift it and listen carefully. A right button gives you a click sound on lifting. If not, you may need to replace it.
3. Replace the Overfill Float Switch
This is an inexpensive part and can be replaced easily by removing the lower panel of the appliance. You may refer to your dishwasher make model and user manual to replace it.
Issue # 2 Dishwasher Is Not Draining
Basics-Dishwasher pumps out the wastewater through air gaps connected to the kitchen sink or any other disposal area. If the drain hose gets clogged up by the dishwasher’s built-up sludge, it can clog the hose preventing it from drying the dishes.
Solution
1. Check the Drain Tube
The first thing to check is the drain tube to see if it is clogged. The obstruction can be easily cleaned by removing the clamps holding the hose. The drain tube can be replaced if the clogs are hard to be pulled out.
2. Check the Drain Filter
If the hose has no kink, check the drain filter present at the bottom of the dishwasher. See if there is any debris to be pulled out and unclog the filter for the smooth running of water.
3. Check the Kitchen Sink or garbage disposal sink
You can check the kitchen sink or the other end of the drain hose disposal to see any blockages. Try to keep that drain clean at all times to avoid future bottlenecks. The water should not get blocked for the proper functioning of the dishwasher.
Issue # 3 Dishwasher Isn’t Drying the Utensils And Are Still Wet
Basics- Drying is done in two ways:- By Heating and By Condensation. It has a heating element that generates heat when current is passed through it, thereby drying the dishwasher dishes. The fan functions to create hot air to dry out the moisture inside the washer. Both these methods are involved in drying the words entirely.
Solution
1. Review the Dish Placement:
The dishwasher works best when dishes have enough space between them to pass the airflow without any restriction. Stacking up the dishes leaving no room for the airflow will leave your words wet. Do not place names on top of each other so that the air circulation is maintained and your dishes come out dry.
2. Check the Vent
Vent functions to release the hot air during the drying cycle. Check out the vent to ensure it opens appropriately so that the air is discharged outside. You may need to call a professional if the vent door doesn’t open properly.
3. Check the Heating Element
The heating element needs to be checked for proper drying. Remove the power supply to inspect any fault in the component visually. Elements get burnt out on regular use of the dishwasher, and replacing it needs assistance from a technical person or read the user manual carefully to locate and remove it. You can remove the two wires attached to it and unscrew the retainer nuts to remove the element.
4. Replace the Heating Element
As already said, replacing the element is not everyone’s cup of tea. Be careful while replacing it. Make sure to tighten the retainer screws so that it doesn’t crack when you use the dishwasher.
Conclusion
A dishwasher is a significant sized appliance and trying to repair it yourself can be a challenging task if you have no prior experience with removing wires and holding wrenches. But a little confidence can help you tackle the job quickly. Remember to read the instructions and follow the necessary measures to avoid getting electrocuted and mess up the whole thing. Frigidaire dishwasher troubleshooting and repairs are easy to manage without much need for professional assistance. For any significant breakdown, you can always call a dishwasher repair company.
