How to Change the Door Springs of a Dishwasher

The washing mechanism of a dishwasher is to throw water on the dishes and allow a mechanical and effective cleaning action.

Opening the door is therefore essential to load or unload the dishes. The parts that favor this action are the door springs and the hinges.

This is because dishwasher door springs hold the door in place. When these springs are worn:

• they loosen and no longer hold the door properly, and the door sometimes lowers on its own,
• the dishwasher door will be difficult to open or close.

After checking, if it is clear that the failure comes from these parts, they must be replaced. Since the operation is simple, you can do it by yourself.

It is best to replace both springs at the same time so that the tension on the door is the same on both sides.

Door springs are located on each side of a dishwasher door. They are fixed at the bottom to the hinge of the door and at the top, to the frame of the machine, thanks to an anchor pin.

The door springs in a dishwasher play a crucial role in supporting and balancing the weight of the dishwasher door. Over time, these springs can become worn out or damaged, leading to difficulties in opening or closing the door. If you’re experiencing issues with the door springs of your dishwasher, it may be necessary to replace them. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the door springs of a dishwasher.

1. Safety Precautions

Before you begin replacing the door springs, 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. Access the Door Springs

The door springs are typically located on the sides of the dishwasher, near the hinge area. To access the door springs, follow these steps:

1. Open the Dishwasher Door: Fully open the dishwasher door to expose the springs.
2. Remove the Bottom Access Panel: Depending on the design of your dishwasher, you may need to remove the bottom access panel to access the springs. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the panel and then carefully lift it off.

3. Remove the Old Door Springs

Follow these steps to remove the old door springs:

1. Identify the Door Springs: Locate the door springs on each side of the dishwasher. They are typically connected to the dishwasher frame and the door hinge.
2. Release Tension: To remove the springs, you’ll need to release the tension. Look for a locking mechanism or a hook that holds the spring in place. Use pliers or a screwdriver to release the tension and detach the spring from the locking mechanism.
3. Disconnect the Springs: Once the tension is released, carefully disconnect the springs from both the dishwasher frame and the door hinge. Take note of the orientation and position of the springs for reassembly.

4. Install the New Door Springs

Follow these steps to install the new door springs:

1. Position the New Springs: Take the new door springs and position them in the same locations as the old ones. Ensure that the springs are correctly aligned with the hook or locking mechanism on both the dishwasher frame and the door hinge.
2. Connect the Springs: Attach the springs to the corresponding locations on the dishwasher frame and the door hinge. Make sure they are securely connected and properly aligned.
3. Apply Tension: Once the springs are connected, apply tension to them to provide the necessary support for the dishwasher door. Use pliers or a screwdriver to hook the springs onto the locking mechanism or hook, creating the desired tension.
4. Test the Door Operation: Gently close and open the dishwasher door to test the movement and ensure that it operates smoothly. Adjust the tension of the springs if necessary to achieve the desired door operation.

5. Reassemble the Dishwasher

Once you have successfully installed the new door springs, it’s time to reassemble the dishwasher:

1. Place the Bottom Access Panel: If you removed the bottom access panel, carefully place it back in position and secure it with the screws.
2. Restore Power Supply: Reconnect the power supply to the dishwasher by plugging it back into the electrical outlet.

6. Test the Door Springs

With the new door springs installed, it’s important to test their functionality:

1. Reconnect the Dishwasher: Plug in or restore the power supply to the dishwasher.
2. Open and Close the Door: Gently open and close the dishwasher door multiple times, ensuring that the springs provide the necessary support and the door operates smoothly.
3. Check for Proper Alignment: Ensure that the door aligns properly with the dishwasher frame when closed, and there are no issues with closing or latching the door.

By following these steps, you can successfully change the door springs of your dishwasher, restoring proper door functionality and balance. 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 door springs 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 replace the door springs.