Quick and easy fix: resetting your whirlpool dishwasher heating element for optimal performance

A dishwasher’s heating element is a crucial component responsible for heating the water used to clean your dishes. Without a properly functioning heating element, your dishwasher won’t be able to effectively remove grease and grime from your dishes, leaving them dirty and unhygienic.

How to Reset a Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element

Resetting your Whirlpool dishwasher heating element is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps:

1. Unplug the Dishwasher: Before you begin any work on your dishwasher, it’s important to unplug it from the power source for safety reasons.
2. Locate the Heating Element: The heating element is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. You can find it by removing the lower spray arm.
3. Check the Heating Element: Before you reset the heating element, check it for any visible damage or corrosion. If you find any damage, you may need to replace the heating element.
4. Reset the Heating Element: To reset the heating element, simply press the reset button located on the side of the element. You may need to use a small screwdriver or other tool to press the button.
5. Reinstall the Spray Arm: Once you have reset the heating element, reinstall the lower spray arm.
6. Plug in the Dishwasher: Plug the dishwasher back into the power source and turn it on.
7. Run a Test Cycle: Run a short test cycle to ensure that the heating element is working properly.

Troubleshooting Common Heating Element Issues

If you are still experiencing problems with your Whirlpool dishwasher heating element, there are a few common issues you can troubleshoot:

• Faulty Heating Element: If the heating element is damaged or corroded, it will need to be replaced.
• Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in the dishwasher. If the thermostat is faulty, it may not be sending the correct signal to the heating element.
• Faulty Control Board: The control board is the brain of the dishwasher. If the control board is faulty, it may not be able to properly control the heating element.

How to Test a Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element

To test a Whirlpool dishwasher heating element, you will need a multimeter.

1. Set the Multimeter to Ohms: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
2. Disconnect the Heating Element: Disconnect the heating element from the dishwasher’s wiring harness.
3. Test the Heating Element: Touch the probes of the multimeter to the two terminals of the heating element.
4. Read the Multimeter: The multimeter should read a resistance of between 10 and 20 ohms. If the reading is significantly higher or lower than this range, the heating element is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.

How to Replace a Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element

If you have determined that your Whirlpool dishwasher heating element needs to be replaced, you can follow these steps:

1. Unplug the Dishwasher: Before you begin any work on your dishwasher, it’s important to unplug it from the power source for safety reasons.
2. Remove the Lower Spray Arm: Remove the lower spray arm by pulling it straight up.
3. Disconnect the Heating Element: Disconnect the heating element from the dishwasher’s wiring harness.
4. Remove the Heating Element: Remove the screws that hold the heating element in place and lift it out of the dishwasher tub.
5. Install the New Heating Element: Place the new heating element into the dishwasher tub and secure it with the screws.
6. Reconnect the Heating Element: Reconnect the heating element to the dishwasher’s wiring harness.
7. Reinstall the Spray Arm: Reinstall the lower spray arm by pushing it down into place.
8. Plug in the Dishwasher: Plug the dishwasher back into the power source and turn it on.
9. Run a Test Cycle: Run a short test cycle to ensure that the new heating element is working properly.

Final Thoughts: Maintaining a Healthy Whirlpool Dishwasher

By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily reset or replace your Whirlpool dishwasher heating element. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting can help keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: How often should I reset my Whirlpool dishwasher heating element?
A: You should only need to reset your Whirlpool dishwasher heating element if it is not working properly.

Q: What are the signs of a faulty Whirlpool dishwasher heating element?
A: Signs of a faulty Whirlpool dishwasher heating element include dishes that are not getting clean, water that is not getting hot, or a burning smell coming from the dishwasher.

Q: Can I reset my Whirlpool dishwasher heating element without unplugging it?
A: No, it is important to unplug your Whirlpool dishwasher before resetting the heating element for safety reasons.