How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher When the Float Water Comes On & Off

Turn off the electricity to the dishwasher at the main circuit breaker. The location of the main breaker will differ from house to house. In some locations, it may be in a garage or outbuilding. Ensure that the power to the dishwasher is switched off by trying to start the dishwasher. If it doesn't start, you've cut the correct circuit.

Open the dishwasher door. Remove the lower dishwasher rack.

Look for the float switch tower on the inside of the cabinet. It is usually located in one of the corners. The tower is about 1 to 2 inches tall and cylindrical.

Remove the float tower by turning it counterclockwise or removing the screw on top with a screwdriver.

Gently tap the float arm connected to the float tower. Try to move the arm up and down along the float tower. Sometimes these floats can become stuck and cause the water to start and stop.

Replace the float cover and restore power to the dishwasher. Run a short cycle to see if that solved the problem.

Turn off the power at the main breaker if the dishwasher is still malfunctioning. Remove the tower cover. Pull the float switch out of the socket by turning it counterclockwise and pulling straight up. Some float switches may have a screw or clip holding them in place that you have to undo before you can remove the switch.

Insert a new float switch into the socket and secure. Cover with the float switch tower.

Restore power to the dishwasher. Check that the new float operates correctly.