How Do I Unclog the Debris Screen in My Kenmore Ultra Wash?

Removing and Cleaning Debris Screens

• 1

  Disconnect the power to the dishwasher. Open the door and remove the bottom basket.

• 2

  Locate the upper screen or filter assembly and look for a plastic tab that extends upward. Turn the plastic tab counterclockwise to unlock the screen. Pull the screen straight up to remove it from its location and pull it toward you to move it out from under the spray arm.

• 3

  Locate the second screen, which is circular with an opening where it fits around the sprayer arm assembly. Insert a finger or two into the opening, lift it slightly and pull it forward to remove it.

• 4

  Rinse both screens under running water to clean them. If necessary use a soft brush, but don't use a stiff brush, wire brush or scouring pad to avoid harming the screen fibers.

• 5

  Replace the lower screen, then slide the upper screen under the sprayer arm and lower it into position. Rotate the tab on top clockwise to lock it into position.

Removing the Spray Arm Assembly

• 6

  Remove the baskets. Remove the top part of the spray arm by loosening it and pulling it out of the dishwasher.

• 7

  Remove the lower spray arm by turning it counterclockwise until it comes off, while holding the tab on top with your other hand. Don't try to remove the tab as if it were a screw or nut: it might break. Remove the rest of the spray arm assembly. Just turn it until it comes off.

• 8

  Remove the four screws holding the upper debris filter. Remove the center post, a small plastic piece. Don't loose the gasket for it.

• 9

  Remove any debris in the area under the upper screen. Remove the chopper assembly cover -- but not the chopper assembly -- to see if there is debris around the chopper assembly. You may need to use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner to remove all the debris.

• 10

  Replace everything in reverse order. Don't drop your screws into the dishwasher. Place a cup open-side up in the top basket. Run the rinse cycle. The cup should fill in about 20 seconds.