How to Disconnect a Heating Element on a Kenmore Dishwasher

Kenmore dishwashers are equipped with a heating element inside the bottom of the appliance that dries dishes at the end of the cycle and maintains water temperature during the wash. Over time, the element may burn out and require replacement for the dishwasher to work properly. You can replace this part yourself with common tools in about an hour and save money on a service call. Replacement heating elements are available from Sears, which sells Kenmore dishwashers, or an appliance repair shop.

Screwdrivers

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker.
- 2
  Remove the screws holding the kickplate to the front bottom of the Kenmore on the left and right sides. Pull off the kickplate.
- 3
  Grab the slip-on connectors at the end of the two wires where they attach to the heating element terminals and pull straight off by the connectors. Do not pull the wires. Make a note of which wire attaches to each terminal.
- 4
  Twist the nut securing each heating-element terminal to the underside of the dishwasher counterclockwise, using pliers.
- 5
  Open the dishwasher door and pull the lower rack so it slides forward out of the appliance.
- 6
  Hold the heating element by the two prongs that connect to the interior bottom of the appliance. Lift the entire heating element straight up and remove.

How to Troubleshoot a Kenmore Dishwasher Door Lock

How to Remove the Filter on the KitchenAid Superba

Dishwashers