How to Troubleshoot a Kenmore Dishwasher Valve

The valve on a Kenmore dishwasher opens and closes at specific times to control the flow of water during the wash cycle. The valve is attached to a device known as a solenoid, which is wired to the timer control. As the dishwasher advances through the cycle, it sends a signal to the solenoid for opening or shutting the water valve at the right time. If your Kenmore isn't filling with water during normal operation, try troubleshooting the valve.

Screwdriver
Paper towels
Pliers
Multimeter

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power to the Kenmore at the household circuit breaker panel.
- 2
  Take out the screws on the sides of the access cover on the bottom front of the Kenmore. Pull down and forward to take off the cover. Locate the water valve and attached solenoid on the bottom left side of the Kenmore.
- 3
  Blot the area below the valve with paper towels to check for signs of a leak.
- 4
  Squeeze the clamp on the intake hose where it attaches to the vlave, using pliers. adjust the hose on the valve and release the pliers to clamp the hose tightly. This stops leaks unless the valve itself is defective. Continue troubleshooting.
- 5
  Remove the two wires from the metal posts on the solenoid attached to the top of the valve. Pull each wire by the crimped fasteners on the end.
- 6
  Set the multimeter to RX1, which is the test to measure circuit continuity.
- 7
  Hold the wands on the end of the meter against the two posts on the valve. A reading of infinity, in which the display numbers roll endlessly, means the valve is defective. Replace the entire part. Valves cannot be repaired on these appliances.

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