Why Is My Dishwasher No Longer Heating?

A dishwasher’s overheating problem can come in two forms. The appliance does not heat up or it heats up, but the temperatures reached do not correspond to the programs launched. When the dishwasher no longer heats, it may come from the dishwasher’s heating system, which can interfere with the cleaning of your dishes. This appliance washes more efficiently at high temperatures.

If the dishwasher does not heat up, the first part that is likely to be the cause of this failure is the resistance. However, it will be necessary to test and verify other elements of the dishwasher responsible for heating it:

• the temperature probe
• the OWI sensor
• the pressure switch
• the circulation pump
• the wiring

Discovering that your dishwasher is no longer heating can be frustrating, as it can result in dishes not being properly cleaned or dried. A dishwasher relies on heating elements to maintain the appropriate water temperature during the wash and rinse cycles. If your dishwasher is no longer heating, there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. In this article, we will explore some common reasons why a dishwasher may stop heating and provide guidance on how to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

1. Heating Element Failure

The most common reason for a dishwasher to stop heating is a failure of the heating element. The heating element is responsible for heating the water during the wash and rinse cycles. Over time, the heating element may become damaged or worn out, leading to a loss of heating capacity. Here’s what you can do:

1. Inspect the Heating Element: Locate the heating element in your dishwasher, usually at the bottom of the tub or near the dishwasher’s back wall. Check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks.
2. Test the Heating Element: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating element. If there is no continuity, it indicates a faulty heating element that needs to be replaced.
3. Replace the Heating Element: If the heating element is damaged or does not pass the continuity test, it should be replaced. Consult your dishwasher’s manual or contact a professional technician for assistance.

2. Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat in a dishwasher helps regulate the water temperature during the wash and rinse cycles. If the thermostat is faulty, it may not signal the heating element to activate, resulting in a lack of heat. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the Thermostat: The thermostat is usually located near the heating element or control panel of the dishwasher. Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for its specific location.
2. Test the Thermostat: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermostat. If there is no continuity, it indicates a faulty thermostat that needs to be replaced.
3. Replace the Thermostat: If the thermostat is defective, it should be replaced. Consult your dishwasher’s manual or contact a professional technician for guidance on replacing the thermostat.

3. Control Board Malfunction

The control board in a dishwasher controls various functions, including activating the heating element. If the control board malfunctions, it may not send the proper signals to the heating element, resulting in no heat. Consider the following steps:

1. Reset the Control Board: Sometimes, a control board glitch can cause the heating function to stop. Try resetting the control board by turning off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for a few minutes, then turning it back on.
2. Inspect for Visible Damage: Examine the control board for any signs of visible damage, such as burnt or corroded components. If there is noticeable damage, the control board may need to be replaced.
3. Consult a Professional: If you suspect a control board malfunction, it is advisable to consult a professional technician for diagnosis and repair. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to test and replace the control board if needed.

4. Water Supply Temperature

Dishwashers rely on hot water from the water supply to achieve proper cleaning and drying. If the water supply temperature is too low, the dishwasher may struggle to heat the water effectively. Consider these steps:

1. Check the Water Heater Setting: Ensure that the water heater temperature is set to a sufficiently high temperature, typically around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). Adjust the temperature if necessary.
2. Run the Faucet: Before starting the dishwasher, run the hot water faucet in your sink until the water becomes hot. This helps ensure that the dishwasher receives hot water from the beginning of the cycle.

CHECK CIRCULATION PUMP

A circulation or cycling pump will ensure the movement of water in the washing sleeves. It is located under your device.

• Remove the receiving plate as well as the connectors of the overflow protection float that is on it.
• Check if the pump shaft rotates perfectly.
• Remove the fixing screw from the circulation pump, remove the hoses connected to the circulation pump and remove it from the dishwasher.
• Set the multimeter to 600 ohms, then slide the test leads onto the pump plugs. If the value is displayed, then it is functional, otherwise it will have to be replaced.

CHECK THE WIRING

It is necessary to check the integrity of the resistor, sensor, pressure switch and pump to see if the problem is with the wiring. This test is performed with the power off.

• Set your multimeter to continuity, often represented by a sound wave icon.
• Touch the tip of the multimeter to the connection tip/connector of your resistor, pressure switch and pump.
• Put the second tip on the opposite side of the wires, usually located on the electronic board. You can identify your yarn by color or visually.
• The multimeter should beep, otherwise you will have to repair the wiring.

In conclusion, a dishwasher that is no longer heating can be caused by a failure of the heating element, a faulty thermostat, a control board malfunction, or low water supply temperature. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can identify and address many of these issues. However, if the problem persists or you are uncertain about performing any repairs yourself, it is best to consult a professional technician for further assistance. They will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of the heating problem and provide the appropriate repair solution, ensuring your dishwasher heats properly and provides efficient cleaning and drying results.