Acme How To Logo Acme How To Logo
Related Articles
Appliance Repair

New Appliances

Electrical Repair

HVAC Repair

Home Maintenance



DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links, we may receive a commission.



Newsletter

Sign up to receive our free Maintenance Reminder Newsletter

Learn More


How to Replace the Heating Element

The heating element is used to heat the water and/or to dry the dishes. If it does not function properly it can result in unsatisfactory cleansing of the dishes or the failure of a cycle to complete properly.

Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.

Before replacing the heating element, unplug the dishwasher or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.

First, open the door and look into the tub and locate the heating element (if it is covered, remove the lower dish rack and cover). The heating element has two terminals which extend through the bottom of the tub, note the general location where they go through.

To access the heating element's wiring, remove the front panel located beneath the door. The panel is usually held in place with two screws either above or below the panel. It may be necessary to first open the door to the dishwasher to reach the screws over the panel, then close the door to remove the panel.

Look into the lower access area and locate where the terminals come through the tub. Each terminal has a wire connected to it. Label the wires and the terminals so that they can be properly reconnected. Pull the wire off of each terminal; they are connected with a slip on connector. Firmly pull the connector, do not pull on the wire. You may need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers. Inspect the connector and terminal for corrosion. If either is corroded they should be cleaned or replaced.

Each terminal is secured with a lock nut, use a crescent wrench or pliers to loosen the nut. Remove the two lock nuts. From inside the tub, lift the element out. Position the new element over the holes and set it in place. Replace the lock nuts and reattach the wires. Replace the access panel, the element cover, if any, and restore the electricity.






Search for Articles on Acme How To