Kenmore Dishwasher Troubleshooting [Problem Solved]

Kenmore is one of the leading home appliance brand names in the world. They make a wide variety of top-of-the-line appliances including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers. Their dishwashers are very reliable and some of the best on the market.

However, like other brands, Kenmore dishwashers are also not immune to problems. Quite often, the repair cost is more than just fixing the part; it could be the whole unit needs to be replaced.

So, to help you save time and money, our team of experts has put together a list of the most common problems with a complete Kenmore dishwasher troubleshooting guide.

Kenmore Dishwasher Troubleshooting

To troubleshoot the Kenmore dishwasher problems, check out the most common causes first.

1. Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining: 

The drain pump or solenoid is not working. Check for obstructions or broken drain hoses. If everything appears to be OK, then the problem may be located at the bottom of the unit where the water enters the machine.

If the unit is an older model and does not have an automatic shut-off, remove the floor pan and inspect the drain opening under the sink.

Is there any food buildup or debris that should not be in the machine? If so, clean out the drain opening with an old toothbrush or piece of wire.

2. Dishwasher Not Washing:

Dishwasher not washing could be caused by a malfunctioning motor or an improper setting on the dials controlling the cycle.

Check the rinse aid, soil sensor, and timer setting. Make sure they are all set properly and that the unit is connected to a working electrical source.

Another cause is that the spray arm is not working. A blocked filter is usually the reason. If the machine has a self-clean function, do it immediately.

If it does not, then remove the top of the machine and inspect the wash arms and the connection points between the wash arms and the spray arms.

Also, check for foreign objects such as dirt or small pebbles that may have gotten into the unit and are blocking up the works. A vacuum cleaner can be used to suck up these objects.

3. Kenmore Dishwasher Leaking From The door:

This could be caused by a worn washer or seal at the bottom of the door. Check for loose fittings or corrosion on the door gasket. Also, if the machine has a self-clean function, do it immediately.

Another cause of leaking from the door is a broken water line inside the cabinet. This could be caused by a frozen line or a leaky faucet.

If the door is particularly bad, you may have to replace the entire interior of the door. 

4. Dishwasher Leaking From The Bottom:

This could be caused by a worn-out rubber seal at the bottom of the unit. Or it could be a hole in the bottom of the unit where the drain pipe comes up through the floor. In this case, the machine will need to be pulled out and the floor cleaned out.

Check the drain hose for leaks and cracks. Also, check the floor pan and the bottom of the unit for obstructions or corrosion.

5. Noise or Vibration When Running:

Noise or vibration when the dishwasher is running is probably not a problem; however, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.

If the noise or vibration is constant and extremely loud, stop using the machine immediately and take it back to the dealer. This could be caused by a loose connection or a short circuit.

If it is just a minor amount of noise, continue using the machine and see if it goes away on its own.

6. Door Squeals When Opened And Shut:

This could be caused by a worn or improperly adjusted latch or lock mechanism. Check all of the hinges for loose or broken fittings. Another cause could be corrosion on the door gasket.

If the door squeaks when opened and shut even with all the latches and locks tight, then the door gasket needs to be replaced.

7. Odor During or After Operation:

Dishwasher odor can be caused by a number of factors. Check for clogs in the drain trap and the drain pipe.

Check the drain opening under the sink for food buildup or debris. Clean it out with an old toothbrush or piece of wire.

8. Kenmore Dishwasher Not Drying:

Make sure the water level in the dishwasher is full. If it is, check the detergent box to make sure it is empty.

Also, empty the detergent pods and make sure there are no leftover tablets or powder at the bottom of the machine.

If this does not solve the problem, then you may have to get the machine checked out by a repair person.

9. Kenmore Dishwasher Not Spraying Water:

Check the water supply line coming off the faucet to make sure there are no pinched or cracked pipes.

Also, remove the top of the machine and visually inspect the wash arms and the connection points between the wash arms and the spray arms.

If the machine has a self-clean function, do it immediately. This will remove the need for using harsh chemicals and save money in the long run.

10. Not Starting:

Make sure the water line leading to the machine is turned on. If it is, check the faucet to make sure it is not leaking. Another possibility is a bad electrical connection at the wall socket.

Make sure the electrical supply is turned on and there are no shorts or ground currents anywhere near the dishwasher. If it is an electric model, check the fuse box for blown or loose fuses.

Related:

Kenmore Washer Not Spinning

Conclusion:

So there. Those are 10 of the most common appliance repair problems that my repair people have to deal with on a regular basis.

Hopefully, our Kenmore dishwasher troubleshooting guide has helped you fix the problem in no time.

Remember, the best way to avoid having to do this is to maintain your equipment and keep it clean and well-maintained. Appliances last longer when they receive proper care and maintenance.