Dishwasher Leaks at Overfill Protector Float

Location

• The overfill protector float is located in the dishwasher tub. The tub contains the racks holding dishes during cleaning. Exact placement of the float varies depending on the dishwasher make. Check the right and left corners at the tub’s front.

Troubleshooting

• Check the float to determine if it is stuck. The float must freely move up and down for proper operation. The float could be jammed by debris. Removing the bottom dish rack allows easy access to the float. Simply roll the rack out of the dishwasher and put it aside. The overfill protector float is usually protected by a shaft or similar covering secured by a bolt. Remove the covering and examine the float. Remove any debris preventing the float from proper operation.

Repair

• Call a repair technician or the manufacturer’s customer service department if the dishwasher continues leaking. Save some money by ordering the part yourself and replacing it. Get estimates from an appliance repairman first. Ask friends or neighbors for a referral. Then contact the manufacturer for prices on ordering the part directly. Ask the customer service representative about the job’s complexity before deciding to do it yourself.

Tips

• Review your warranty before attempting repairs. The dishwasher may still have warranty coverage even if you are not the original owner. Faulty water-inlet valves and seals around the dishwasher’s door can also cause leaks. Water-inlet valves feature rubber tubes delivering water to the dishwasher tub. In some situations, the tubes leak. Check for these problems if the overfill protector float does not seem to be the cause.