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How to Change the Capacitor of a Dishwasher

Jul 19, 2023, 14:59pm

The capacitor is an essential element of the dishwasher which is responsible for turning the motor and maintaining the torque of the motor.

Newer dishwashers often operate without capacitors. However, there are still many machines that use a conventional winding motor (known as a pole motor) for which the presence of the capacitor is essential.

When the capacitor is failing, the symptoms generally observed on your machine are:

  • The motor is hard to turn or no longer turns.
  • The engine does not start and growls.

The condenser is located on the circulation pump, it is this which sucks up the water and propels it into the wash arms, in the rear part of the dishwasher.

It is in most cases mounted on the engine with a nut connected to 2 different wires.

The capacitor in a dishwasher is an important electrical component that helps regulate and store electrical energy. Over time, capacitors can fail or become damaged, leading to various issues with the dishwasher’s performance. If you’re experiencing problems such as motor failure, electrical malfunctions, or irregular operation of your dishwasher, it may be necessary to change the capacitor. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the capacitor of a dishwasher.

How to Change the Capacitor of a Dishwasher

1. Safety Precautions

Before you begin changing the capacitor, ensure that the dishwasher is completely disconnected from its power source. This will prevent any electrical accidents and ensure your safety during the procedure.

2. Locate the Capacitor

The capacitor is typically located near the control panel or the motor of the dishwasher. Refer to your dishwasher’s manual or consult the manufacturer’s instructions to locate the specific position of the capacitor.

3. Discharge the Capacitor

Capacitors store electrical energy, and it is essential to discharge them before handling them to avoid any electrical shock. To discharge the capacitor, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the Power Supply: Ensure that the dishwasher is completely disconnected from the power supply by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker.
  2. Wait for Discharge: After disconnecting the power supply, allow the dishwasher to sit for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the capacitor to discharge naturally.
  3. Verify Discharge with a Multimeter (optional): If you have a multimeter, set it to measure voltage and test the terminals of the capacitor. If there is no voltage reading or it reads close to zero, the capacitor is discharged. If you are unsure about using a multimeter or verifying the discharge, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a professional technician.

4. Remove the Old Capacitor

To remove the old capacitor, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the Capacitor: Locate the capacitor and identify its terminals. Take note of the capacitor’s capacitance value and voltage rating for purchasing the correct replacement.
  2. Disconnect Wires: Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the terminals of the capacitor. Take note of their positions and connections for reassembly.
  3. Remove Mounting Bracket or Clip: If the capacitor is secured by a mounting bracket or clip, remove it using the appropriate tools. Some capacitors may be held in place by screws or clips, while others may be soldered directly onto a circuit board.
  4. Take Out the Old Capacitor: Once the mounting bracket or clip is removed, you can carefully remove the old capacitor from its position.

5. Install the New Capacitor

To install the new capacitor, follow these steps:

  1. Verify Specifications: Ensure that the new capacitor matches the specifications of the old one in terms of capacitance value and voltage rating.
  2. Position the New Capacitor: Place the new capacitor in the same position as the old one, aligning it with the terminals and mounting holes.
  3. Reconnect the Wires: Connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the new capacitor, ensuring a secure connection. If necessary, refer to the notes or labels you made during disassembly to ensure correct reconnection.
  4. Secure the Capacitor: If there was a mounting bracket or clip, use the appropriate tools to secure the new capacitor in place. If soldering is required, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional technician.

6. Reassemble the Dishwasher

Once you have successfully replaced the capacitor, it’s time to reassemble the dishwasher:

  1. Replace any Mounting Bracket or Clip: If you removed a mounting bracket or clip, position it back in place and secure it using the appropriate tools.
  2. Reconnect any Disconnect Power Supply: Reconnect the power supply to the dishwasher by plugging it back into the electrical outlet or switching on the circuit breaker.

How to Change the Capacitor of a Dishwasher

7. Test the Dishwasher

With the new capacitor installed, it’s important to test the dishwasher’s functionality:

  1. Power On the Dishwasher: Turn on the power supply to the dishwasher.
  2. Run a Test Cycle: Start a dishwasher cycle and closely monitor its performance. Check for any irregularities or issues that were present before replacing the capacitor. If everything operates smoothly, it indicates a successful capacitor replacement.

By following these steps, you can successfully change the capacitor of your dishwasher, resolving electrical issues and restoring proper functionality. Remember to consult your dishwasher’s manual or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific guidelines or recommendations. If you are unsure about changing the capacitor yourself or encounter any difficulties during the process, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional appliance technician. They have the expertise and tools necessary to safely and effectively change the capacitor.