How to Replace the Water Float on a Whirlpool Dishwasher

On a Whirlpool dishwasher, the water level float (WPW10346525) is responsible for monitoring the water level in the tub, allowing your dishwasher to fill and drain properly during cycles. Common signs that indicate the need for replacement include overfilling, not filling, water leaking from the dishwasher, or error codes related to water levels. Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your dishwasher back in working order. So, let’s get started!

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• 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.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• 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.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Tools and materials needed

• Replacement part (make sure it’s compatible with your model before installing)
• Torx 15 driver
• Flathead screwdriver

Replacement steps

Step 1: Disassembly and removal

1. Begin by opening the dishwasher door fully.
2. Use a Torx 15 driver to remove the screws that hold the front panel in place.
3. There are four screws on each side; make sure to take them all out.
4. Once all screws are removed, lift the door slightly.
5. The front panel should drop down. Carefully lift it off and set it aside.
6. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the fasteners securing the access panel.
7. Turn the fasteners and pull them out.
8. After removing the fasteners, gently pull the access panel out and set it aside.
9. Locate the two covers that need to be removed to access the float switch assembly.
10. Use a small flathead screwdriver to press down on the tabs while pulling the covers out.
11. Once the covers are off, you will see the water level float.
12. Push the float to the side and release it from its position.
13. Open the door and place a weight on it to hold it down.
14. Pull out the lower dish rack and set it aside.
15. Reach inside and pull the old water level float out.

Step 2: Installation and reassembly

1. Align the stem of the new float with the opening.
2. Push it down into place, ensuring it locks securely.
3. Place the lower dish rack back into the dishwasher by setting it on the door and pushing it into position.
4. Remove the weight from the door and close it securely.
5. Ensure the float stem is sitting on the lever, then close the covers over the float switch assembly.
6. Lift the access panel back into place and align it.
7. Use the flathead screwdriver to reinstall the fasteners.
8. Align the tab on the door with the bracket on the frame on each side.
9. Push the front panel forward and lift it slightly to secure it in place.
10. Open the door again and use the Torx 15 driver to reinstall the screws on each side.
11. Once all screws are secured, close the dishwasher door.
12. Plug the dishwasher back in to complete the process.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the water level float on your Whirlpool 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.

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