How to Check the Valve on Your Kenmore Elite Dishwasher

Kenmore Elite dishwashers work with a valve connected between the water supply under the sink and the interior tub. The valve is wired through a solenoid to the cycle controls, which are set on a timer. When the timer reaches a certain point in the cycle, the valve opens to let water into the Elite. If your dishwasher isn't filling with water during the wash cycle, a malfunctioning valve solenoid may be the culprit. Test the component in less than half an hour by using a multimeter.

Screwdriver
Multimeter
Old towel

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off electricity to the Elite at the circuit breaker.
- 2
  Take out the screws holding the bottom grille on the right and left edges. Pull off the grille and set it out of the way. You can now see the valve underneath the Elite where it connects to the water supply hose, which enters through the cabinet from the sink plumbing. Press an old towel against the valve to look for moisture that could indicate a leak. if the internal seals wear out, you may notice dripping water, which means the valve must be replaced.
- 3
  Remove the wires clipped to the metal contacts above the valve. This part is the solenoid.
- 4
  Select the Ohms setting on the multimeter.
- 5
  Press the wands on the multimeter against the two contacts above the valve. If the meter display swings into the infinite range, the valve is defective. The replacement part, which is available from Sears or an appliance store, includes the valve and solenoid assembly in one unit.

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