InfoZone


Fixing the Float Switch


Before you begin making any repairs to your dishwasher you need to turn off the power supply to the dishwasher.

You will also need some items. Make sure you have a screwdriver, small pliers, multitester – sometimes referred to as a multimeter, a pen and labeling devices for wire labeling.

The multitester will be your aid in diagnosing electrical issues and you will also use it to measure resistance. The way this is done is by measuring the ohms - resistance of the wire to flow of electricity. The range of ohms goes from zero to infinity. A reading of zero ohms shows that it is very easy for the electricity to flow. A reading of infinity means there is no path for the electricity to go through.

Most multitesters are hand-held with an LCD display. They have two wires referred to as leads. One wire is red and the other is black, with metal tips called probes.

In order to diagnose if the float switch is the culprit to your dishwasher water fill problem remove the lower kickplate panel. You should then see the float switch just below the float assembly either to the right or left. Look for the two wires that are connected to the switch. Label the wires you see so that you know how to reconnect them later on. Gently pull the slip on connectors that are attached to those two wires. Do not pull directly on the wires themselves.

Now take the multitester and set it the ohms to x 1. Take each probe on the multitester and touch one switch terminal. You will see either a reading of zero or infinity. Test the terminals to each probe while pressing down on the float switch button. You should see opposite readings. If the float switch fails it is time to replace it.

To replace the float switch use your screwdriver and remove the screws or release the clip from the switch, disconnecting it from the float. Then screw the new float switch in place. Connect the wires to the new switch and replace the lower kickplate panel.