Kenmore dishwasher water woes: uncover the mystery behind the empty tank

A dishwasher is an essential kitchen appliance that saves time and effort. However, when it fails to fill with water, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. If you’re wondering why doesn’t my Kenmore dishwasher fill with water, this comprehensive troubleshooting guide will help you identify and resolve the issue.

Causes and Solutions

1. Water Supply Issues

• Closed water supply valve: Ensure that the water supply valve under the sink is fully open.
• Kinked or clogged water supply hose: Inspect the hose for any kinks or clogs and straighten or replace it if necessary.
• Insufficient water pressure: Check the water pressure at your kitchen faucet. If it’s too low, you may need to contact your water utility company.

2. Inlet Valve Failure

• Faulty inlet valve: The inlet valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher. A faulty valve can prevent water from entering.
• Clogged inlet valve screen: The inlet valve screen filters debris from the water supply. If it becomes clogged, it can restrict water flow.
• Electrical issues: Check the wiring connections to the inlet valve and ensure they are secure.

3. Float Switch Problems

• Stuck float switch: The float switch detects the water level in the dishwasher. If it gets stuck, it may prevent the dishwasher from filling with water.
• Damaged float switch: Inspect the float switch for any damage or cracks. Replace it if necessary.

4. Pressure Switch Malfunction

• Faulty pressure switch: The pressure switch monitors the water pressure in the dishwasher. A faulty switch can prevent the dishwasher from filling if it detects insufficient pressure.
• Clogged pressure switch hose: The hose connecting the pressure switch to the dishwasher can become clogged. Clean or replace the hose as needed.

5. Control Board Issues

• Malfunctioning control board: The control board manages the dishwasher’s functions, including water filling. If it fails, it can prevent the dishwasher from filling with water.
• Electrical issues: Check the wiring connections to the control board and ensure they are secure.

6. Water Level Sensor Failure

• Faulty water level sensor: The water level sensor detects the water level in the dishwasher and signals the control board when it’s full. A faulty sensor can prevent the dishwasher from filling properly.
• Clogged water level sensor: The water level sensor can become clogged with debris. Clean the sensor using a soft brush or cloth.

In a nutshell: Resolving the Water Filling Issue

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to identify and resolve the reason why your Kenmore dishwasher doesn‘t fill with water. If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting methods and the issue persists, it’s recommended to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How do I reset my Kenmore dishwasher?

A: To reset a Kenmore dishwasher, unplug it from the power outlet for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.

Q: What is the inlet valve on a dishwasher?

A: The inlet valve is a solenoid valve that controls the flow of water into the dishwasher.

Q: How do I test the water level sensor on a Kenmore dishwasher?

A: Disconnect the water level sensor from the dishwasher and use a multimeter to measure its resistance. The resistance should be between 100 and 200 ohms.

Q: Can a clogged drain hose prevent a dishwasher from filling with water?

A: Yes, a clogged drain hose can cause water to back up into the dishwasher and prevent it from filling properly.

Q: How do I access the control board on a Kenmore dishwasher?

A: The location of the control board varies depending on the dishwasher model. Consult the owner’s manual or refer to an online repair guide for specific instructions.