How to replace GE dishwasher flood switch assembly WD21X10519


Steven E / Thursday March 7, 2024


Is your dishwasher leaving you high and dry—or worse, flooding your kitchen? If your flood switch assembly is on the fritz, it might be time for a replacement to keep your appliance running smoothly and your floors dry. Dive into our step-by-step guide below, complete with a helpful video tutorial, to replace your flood switch assembly with ease.

The flood switch assembly is an important safety device in dishwashers that helps prevent flooding from a dishwasher if the water level gets too high. It helps prevent water damage in homes and keeps the dishwasher working correctly. The assembly is installed under the fine filter inside the sump of the dishwasher.

If the flood switch assembly is damaged or worn out from regular use, it will need to be replaced. Swapping it out for a new one is a straightforward process that shouldn’t take long to complete.

You can find a replacement flood switch assembly WD21X10519 here. If you need other replacement parts for your GE dishwasher, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch here: How To: GE Flood Switch Assembly WD21X10519

Symptoms of a faulty flood switch assembly

You might need to replace the flood switch assembly if:

  • The dishwasher isn’t filling with water
  • Water isn’t draining from the dishwasher
  • The dishwasher stops during a cycle
  • The switch is broken/stuck in the open or closed position
  • An error code is being displayed

A bad flood switch assembly can be caused by debris accumulation that’s affecting the float’s movement or electrical issues within the switch mechanism. Wear and tear on the float or switch over time can also cause it to fail.

A problem with the thermistor – part of the assembly – can lead to an incorrect water temperature being sent to the main control board or an error code and also require that the flood switch assembly be replaced.

What you need

  • 1/4-inch driver
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Adjustable pliers or wrench
  • Flashlight

Read more: How to Clean a Dishwasher

Safety precautions

  • Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
  • Turn off the water supply at the outlet before starting repairs.
  • Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
  • Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
  • Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
  • Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
  • Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance.
  • Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.

Read more: How Does a Dishwasher Work?

How to replace the flood switch assembly

  1. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power supply.
  2. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
  3. Open the dishwasher door.
  4. Roll out the lower dish rack to access the spray arm.
  5. Find the lock nut for the lower spray arm and turn it counterclockwise from the top to loosen and remove it.
  6. Turn the fine filter counterclockwise and pull it out.
  7. Unscrew the two filter vents that hold the coarse filter in place.
  8. Lift the coarse filter off its position. Pull the filter adapter straight up to remove it.
  9. Remove the two screws that secure the base.
  10. Carefully lift the base to access the flood switch assembly.
  11. Gently release the old assembly. Don’t pull too hard since there’s a harness attached to the bottom.
  12. Press down on the locking tab and disconnect the harness connected to the old assembly.
  13. Plug the new flood switch into the disconnected plug. Pay attention to the locking tab and the shape of the new assembly while inserting it.
  14. Make sure the gasket on the new flood switch is in the right place to prevent water leakage.
  15. Push the new flood switch assembly down and install the floor plate by matching its shape to the opening. Secure it with the two screws.
  16. Align the filter adapter and press it down.
  17. Put the coarse filter back in its opening.
  18. Screw the two filter vents back in by turning them clockwise.
  19. Place the fine filter back in its position and turn it clockwise until it aligns with the arrows.
  20. Insert the spray arm into its designated opening so the four tabs on its sides lock into place.
  21. Secure the spray arm by turning the lock nut clockwise from the top.
  22. Slide the lower dish rack back into the dishwasher.
  23. Close the door and make sure it locks correctly.
  24. Turn on the dishwasher and run a test cycle.

Read more: Best Loading Techniques For Your Dishwasher

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the flood switch on your dishwasher.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel. We can also help you troubleshoot common dishwasher problems here.

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man and woman shopping for a dishwasher