How to replace Whirlpool dishwasher float switch gasket WP8531743

Is a leaky dishwasher leaving you in a puddle of frustration? If you’ve noticed water pooling on your floor, your float switch base gasket may be the culprit, and replacing it can prevent costly damages. Watch our step-by-step video tutorial below to learn how you can fix this common problem yourself, saving both time and money!

If you notice a puddle of water on the floor near the right side of your dishwasher while it’s running a cycle and/or your dishwasher isn’t running correctly, it may be time to replace your float switch base gasket. This rubber seal keeps water from leaking out during the wash cycle, but when it wears out, moisture can drip down the front of the dishwasher and pool on the floor.

You’ll need to fix the float switch base gasket as soon as possible to avoid more extensive problems with your Whirlpool dishwasher.

If you need the replacement float switch gasket WP8531743, you can order it here.

Watch the full repair here

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.

Importance of the float switch base gasket

The float switch base gasket is a seal that fits around the base of the float switch. It seals the opening around the water-level float assembly and prevents water from leaking out into the float switch.

You can find the gasket, which is usually made of rubber and shaped like a ring, sitting in a recessed channel at the bottom of the outer tub, underneath the float.

Over time, the gasket can become brittle or misshapen, allowing water to leak from the outer tub. If your float switch base gasket is visibly damaged or missing, you should replace it to protect your dishwasher’s electronics and prevent external water leaks.

READ MORE: Dishwasher Won’t Fill With Water: Top 5 Reasons & Fixes

How to replace gasket WP8531743 

To replace the float switch base gasket, you’ll need to disconnect the remove the lower tub assembly to access it.

What you need

1. 5/8 open-end wrench: Used to loosen and tighten the water line connections.
2. 5/16-inch nut driver: Used for removing and securing hose clamps and other components.
3. Phillips screwdriver: Used for various screws in the dishwasher.
4. Flat blade screwdriver: Useful for prying and adjusting certain components.
5. Pliers: Used for gripping and tightening various parts.
6. Replacement dishwasher gasket: Purchase the new gasket by clicking here.

Keep safety first

Before beginning any appliance repair work, safety should always be your primary concern. Make sure you:

• Unplug the dishwasher: Verify that the dishwasher is completely disconnected from any electrical source to avoid any risk of electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply: Find the water supply valve to your dishwasher and turn it off to prevent any water from entering the dishwasher while you’re working on it.

READ MORE: Leaving Dirty Dishes in the Dishwasher: How Long Can It Wait?

Step-by-step instructions

1. Gently pull the dishwasher door open to access the racks and interior.
2. Carefully slide out the lower and upper dish racks from the dishwasher.
3. In most cases, dishwashers are secured to the underside of the kitchen countertop. To remove it:
   1. Use your Phillips screwdriver to locate and unscrew the fasteners that hold the dishwasher in place under the countertop.
   2. Place a towel and a small plastic container under the water line connection to catch any water leaks.
4. Using your 5/8 open-end wrench, carefully loosen and disconnect the water line.
5. With the 5/16-inch nut driver, loosen the hose clamp and carefully remove the drain hose. Keep your towel and container handy to catch any residual water.
6. Once everything is disconnected, you can pull out the dishwasher:
   1. Slowly pull the dishwasher away from its cavity. Be mindful of the wheels at the back so you can maneuver it easier.
   2. Use the flat-blade screwdriver to turn the clips and remove the kick panel for better access to the dishwasher’s underside.
7. To access the gasket, you’ll need to open the internal covers. Use your pliers to squeeze and lift the tabs on the covers
8. Lift and remove the lever that is attached to the float mechanism.
9. Carefully bend the bottom part of the float to push it inside and release it from its position.
10. Now that you’ve accessed the internal components, you can swap out the gasket:
    1. Find the old gasket around the water level assembly and take note of how it’s fitted before you remove it.
    2. Gently pull out the old gasket. If it’s tightly fitted, you might need to use the flat blade screwdriver to pry it loose, but be careful not to damage any surrounding parts.
    3. Align the new gasket with the opening where the old one was removed. Begin from one end and slowly work your way around, pressing the gasket into place. Make sure it fits snugly with no kinks or twists.
11. Place the lever back into its original position, making sure it interacts correctly with the float.
12. Carefully bend and reinsert the float, making sure it’s properly aligned and operational.
13. Carefully bring the dishwasher back to its upright position. Make sure to keep the insulation intact and in place.
14. Gently slide the dishwasher back into its housing. As you do this, carefully feed the water line, power cord, and drain hose back through their respective openings.
15. Using the 5/8 open-end wrench and 5/16-inch nut driver, respectively, reconnect the water line and drain hose.
16. Reattach the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop using the Phillips screwdriver and the previously removed screws.
17. Once everything is back in place, you can test the dishwasher to make sure it runs correctly:
    1. Turn on the water supply and plug in the dishwasher.
    2. Run a test cycle. Keep an eye out for any leaks around the new gasket.
    3. Check that the dishwasher runs smoothly and the door closes securely without any water escaping.

READ MORE: How to Install a Dishwasher

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the float switch base gasket in your dishwasher.

If you still need the gasket or other 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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