A Bosch Dishwasher Won't Fill and Hangs at the Start of a Cycle

Float Switch

• Bosch dishwashers are equipped with a float switch, which is located under the dishwasher. The switch is connected to a small plastic cylinder found inside the dishwasher. The cylinder, known as the float, moves upward as water enters the appliance. If the float switch is damaged or defective, it needs to be replaced. A repair manual and a float switch kit are available for purchase from a diverse array of online appliance repair websites that specialize in Bosch appliance parts or through your local Bosch appliance dealer.

Float

• If the float inside the dishwasher is not moving, it may because of a buildup of sticky food residue or mineral deposits. If dishes are not properly stacked on the racks, they may be in the way of the float moving freely. To clean the inside of your Bosch dishwasher, place an upturned large glass bowl on the bottom rack with the rest of the dishwasher empty. Pour 3 cups of white distilled vinegar in the bowl and program the dishwasher to run on the "Power Scrub" cycle. The vinegar will remove hard water deposits, food debris and cloudy soap residue, leaving your dishwasher clean and fresh.

Timer

• If the timer always hangs up at the same point in the dishwashing cycle, it is likely the float switch or the float itself that is to blame. However, if the timer will not respond or stops and starts at random times, the timer is defective and needs to be replaced.

Safety Recall

• Consumers should be aware that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Bosch Home Appliance have issued a voluntary recall of certain dishwashers manufactured between May 1999 to July 2005. More than 450,000 dishwashers that can present a fire hazard are affected by the safety recall. Contact the Bosch Appliance Service hotline or call your local Bosch appliance service center to determine if your dishwasher is included in the recall and to schedule a free repair.