Kelvinator Dishwasher not cleaning: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

Some Kelvinator dishwashers rely on a heating element to warm the Kelvinator dishwasher water during both washing and drying phases. If this heating element stops working, it can lead to improper cleaning. You can check to see if the heating element has burned out by using a multimeter to check for continuity. If there's no continuity then you will need to replace the heating element.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Heating Element

1. Disconnect power to Kelvinator dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.

2. Remove lower access panels and drain water from Kelvinator dishwasher tub. Be prepared to collect water.

3. Note wire positions connecting to existing element terminals. Take clear photos for reference.

4. Disconnect wires from element terminals one at a time. Carefully remove without damage.

5. Remove any screws or clips securing element in tub. Lift out once fully disconnected.

6. Clean area within tub where new element will mount. Remove debris from mounting surface.

7. Mount replacement element using fasteners removed earlier. Align mounting holes properly.

8. Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to element terminal photos.

9. Replace access panels and securely tighten fasteners. Avoid pinching wires.

10. Reconnect power and run test heat cycle. Check for proper heating operation.

11. Inspect final installation.

Repair Instructions:

The control board in your Kelvinator dishwasher is like its electrical command center. It's responsible for providing power to almost all the electrical parts inside the Kelvinator dishwasher. When this control board is not functioning properly, it might fail to send power to the water inlet valve, which is important for letting water flow into the Kelvinator dishwasher to clean the dishes.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Control Board

1. Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to Kelvinator dishwasher before servicing.

2. Remove lower access panel or kick panel. Find and remove securing screws along bottom.

3. Note positions of all wire connections to board. Take photos to reference during reconnection.

4. Disconnect all wires from old control board. Gently detach each wire one at a time.

5. Remove mounting screws from board enclosure. Usually 2-4 screws secure electronic board assembly.

6. Detach old control board from enclosure base. Carefully lift board out once fully disconnected.

7. Clean mounting area inside enclosure base. Wipe away any debris from new board mounting area.

8. Mount replacement control board into base. Set into position and start securing screws.

9. Reconnect wires one by one, matching positions. Reference photos to precisely reconnect wires.

10. Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.

11. Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Repair Instructions:

The circulation pump in your Kelvinator dishwasher uses a motor and impeller to push water up through the wash arms, making sure your dishes get properly cleaned. If this circulation pump is not working correctly, it can lead to dirty dishes. You can identify a potential issue if the motor is completely silent or only making a humming sound after the Kelvinator dishwasher has filled.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Circulation Pump

1. Shut off water supply and unplug Kelvinator dishwasher. Turn off the water valve and disconnect the power cord from the outlet.

2. Remove toe panel or kick panel. Find mounting screws/clips and remove the bottom front panel.

3. Locate circulation pump. It's usually located at the bottom of the Kelvinator dishwasher, towards the front near the toe panel area.

4. Disconnect hoses from pump. Gently squeeze hose clamps and detach hoses from water inlet and outlet ports on the pump.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a nut driver or socket wrench to remove screws or bolts securing the pump assembly in place.

6. Detach electrical connection. Disconnect the wiring harness plug from the back of the pump motor.

7. Remove old pump. Pull out the circulation pump from the Kelvinator dishwasher.

8. Install new pump. Set the replacement pump into position and hand-tighten mounting screws.

9. Reattach hoses and wires. Secure water inlet and outlet hoses to ports with clamps. Plug wiring harness into new pump.

10. Replace front panel and test. Reinstall lower panel and run a cycle to check for leaks on hose connections.

Repair Instructions:

The motor in your Kelvinator dishwasher is responsible for driving an impeller, a sort of water propeller, to push water up through the wash arms. This action is important for cleaning your dishes effectively. If there's an issue with the motor, a broken pump impeller, or if any part of the pump gets clogged, it can result in your dishes not getting cleaned properly.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly

1. Disconnect power to Kelvinator dishwasher at circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.

2. Remove lower kick panel and drain hose from pump. Detach hose clamp to separate parts.

3. Note position of wires on motor terminals for reconnecting later. Take clear photos if needed.

4. Disconnect wires from existing pump motor one at a time. Carefully remove without damaging.

5. Remove mounting screws securing pump body to Kelvinator dishwasher tub. Lift out entire assembly.

6. Clean area where new pump will mount. Remove debris from mounting surface.

7. Mount replacement pump body using screws removed earlier. Align mounting holes properly.

8. Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos as needed.

9. Reattach drain hose to new pump with clamp. Make sure you have a tight secure connection.

10. Replace lower panel and reconnect power. Run test cycle to check new pump operation.

11. Inspect installation and make adjustments as needed.

Repair Instructions:

The circulation pump in your Kelvinator dishwasher uses a motor and impeller to push water up through the wash arms, making sure your dishes get properly cleaned. If this circulation pump is not working correctly, it can lead to dirty dishes. You can identify a potential issue if the motor is completely silent or only making a humming sound after the Kelvinator dishwasher has filled.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Circulation and Drain Pump Motor

1. Unplug and disconnect water. Turn off power at breaker and water supply before starting repairs.

2. Remove access panel. Find screws or clips holding bottom panel and carefully detach it.

3. Locate circulation or drain pump. Pumps are usually mounted under the Kelvinator dishwasher tub.

4. Disconnect hoses from pump. Gently squeeze clamps and detach hoses from water inlet/outlet ports.

5. Remove mounting bolts. Use a wrench or socket to detach pump assembly from Kelvinator dishwasher wall.

6. Detach old motor wires. Disconnect electrical plug joining motor to Kelvinator dishwasher wiring harness.

7. Pull motor from pump body. Remove mounting bolts fully to detach old motor.

8. Install new motor. Set replacement motor into pump body slots and hand-tighten mounting bolts.

9. Reattach wires and hoses. Push plugs fully onto motor and slide clamps over reattached hoses.

10. Reinstall access panel and test cycle. Reconnect power and water supply, then run empty cycle to check new motor.

Repair Instructions:

The water inlet valve in your Kelvinator dishwasher is responsible for letting water in. When it's clogged or not working correctly, your Kelvinator dishwasher won't get the necessary water to clean your dishes effectively. If you suspect a clog or failure with the water inlet valve, you will need to replace it.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Check Valve

1. Turn off power to the Kelvinator dishwasher at the breaker box and turn off the water supply.

2. Open the Kelvinator dishwasher door and remove the lower rack.

3. Locate the water supply line coming into the Kelvinator dishwasher. Follow it to find the check valve.

4. Use a basin to catch any water that may leak out when disconnecting the hoses.

5. Disconnect the water supply hoses from the check valve.

6. Unscrew the check valve from the Kelvinator dishwasher's water inlet valve.

7. Install the new check valve by screwing it onto the inlet valve. Use Teflon tape on the threads to prevent leaks.

8. Reconnect the water supply hoses to the check valve. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten.

9. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Tighten connections if needed.

10. Restore power to the Kelvinator dishwasher once no leaks are found.

11. Run a test cycle and verify proper operation of the Kelvinator dishwasher with the new check valve installed.

Repair Instructions:

The central wash arm is responsible for spreading water over the dishes in the upper rack. When water can't flow smoothly through this arm, it means the upper rack dishes won't get cleaned as they should. Over time, tiny bits of food can get stuck in the small holes of the wash arm, which can lead to dirty dishes. If you notice your dishes aren't coming out clean, it's likely due to a clogged wash arm. You can remove the spray arm and use a toothpick to clear any debris from the holes on it. If the part is damaged it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Center Wash Arm Assembly

1. Disconnect power to the Kelvinator dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety.

2. Remove upper and lower dishracks along with any items inside Kelvinator dishwasher.

3. Locate center wash arm assembly mounted under upper dishrack holes.

4. Depress center wash arm mounting tabs and lift assembly straight up out of tub.

5. Clean mounting area at bottom of tub where new arm will attach.

6. Align tabs of replacement center wash arm assembly into mounting holes.

7. Press down firmly until tabs click into locked position. Test stability.

8. Replace dishracks and items inside Kelvinator dishwasher.

9. Close Kelvinator dishwasher door and reconnect power.

10. Run test cycle to check spray coverage from new center arm.

Repair Instructions:

The lower wash arm is responsible for spreading water over the dishes in the lower rack. When water can't flow smoothly through this arm, it means the upper rack dishes won't get cleaned as they should. Over time, tiny bits of food can get stuck in the small holes of the wash arm, which can lead to dirty dishes. If you notice your dishes aren't coming out clean, it's likely due to a clogged wash arm. You can remove the spray arm and use a toothpick to clear any debris from the holes on it. If the part is damaged it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly

1. Disconnect power to Kelvinator dishwasher at circuit breaker and remove lower basket.

2. Locate the lower wash arm assembly mounted on bottom of tub interior.

3. Depress retaining tabs and lift arm assembly up and out of mounting brackets.

4. Clean area at bottom of tub where new arm will attach.

5. Position replacement lower arm assembly into mounts.

6. Press down firmly until it clicks into locked position on retaining tabs.

7. Replace lower dishrack basket and any items.

8. Close Kelvinator dishwasher door and reconnect power.

9. Perform test cycle and check spray coverage from new lower arm.

10. Inspect final installation and ensure arm is stable during operation.

Repair Instructions:

The main control board in your Kelvinator dishwasher is like its electrical command center. It's responsible for providing power to almost all the electrical parts inside the Kelvinator dishwasher. When this control board is not functioning properly, it might fail to send power to the water inlet valve, which is important for letting water flow into the Kelvinator dishwasher to clean the dishes.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Main Control Board

1. Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to Kelvinator dishwasher before servicing.

2. Remove lower Kelvinator dishwasher panel. Find securing screws along bottom of Kelvinator dishwasher cavity.

3. Note wire connections to board. Take photos of positions for reconnection later.

4. Disconnect all wires from board. Gently detach each wire connection point by point.

5. Remove mounting screws from board. Typically 2-3 screws hold board securely in place.

6. Detach old board from mounting posts. Carefully lift out once fully disconnected.

7. Clean mounting area of any debris. Wipe surface where new control board will install.

8. Mount replacement control board. Set into position and start securing screws.

9. Reconnect wires one by one. Reference photos to precisely match wires and connectors.

10. Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.

11. Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Repair Instructions:

The lower wash arm is responsible for spreading water over the dishes in the lower rack. When water can't flow smoothly through this arm, it means the upper rack dishes won't get cleaned as they should. Over time, tiny bits of food can get stuck in the small holes of the wash arm, which can lead to dirty dishes. If you notice your dishes aren't coming out clean, it's likely due to a clogged wash arm. You can remove the spray arm and use a toothpick to clear any debris from the holes on it. If the part is damaged it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and shut off water supply. Disconnect power cord and turn off inlet valve before starting repairs.

2. Remove lower access panel. Find mounting screws or clips and carefully detach bottom front panel.

3. Locate lower wash arm inside tub. It is mounted towards the bottom center or rear of the Kelvinator dishwasher tub interior.

4. Disconnect wash arm from fitting. Gently twist arm connector and pull away from socket in tub wall.

5. Remove obstructing debris if necessary. Clean any food or mineral buildup from wash arm spray holes.

6. Inspect fitting socket for damage. Check that socket is clear and not cracked before reinstalling wash arm.

7. Attach new or cleaned wash arm onto socket. Push arm end firmly back into the tub wall fitting until it clicks into place.

8. Replace access panel and run test cycle. Reconnect power and water lines then run empty cycle to check spray pattern.

9. Check wash coverage after a full load. Run soiled dishes to make sure the arm sprays sufficiently during cycle.

Repair Instructions:

The upper wash arm is responsible for spreading water over the dishes in the lower rack. When water can't flow smoothly through this arm, it means the upper rack dishes won't get cleaned as they should. Over time, tiny bits of food can get stuck in the small holes of the wash arm, which can lead to dirty dishes. If you notice your dishes aren't coming out clean, it's likely due to a clogged wash arm. You can remove the spray arm and use a toothpick to clear any debris from the holes on it. If the part is damaged it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Upper Wash Arm Assembly

1. Disconnect power to Kelvinator dishwasher and remove upper dishrack.

2. Locate the upper wash arm assembly mounted on interior tub wall.

3. Depress retaining tabs and lift arm assembly up to detach from brackets.

4. Clean area where new arm will attach on interior tub wall.

5. Position replacement upper arm assembly into mounting brackets.

6. Press down firmly until it clicks into locked position on retaining tabs.

7. Replace upper dishrack and any items.

8. Close Kelvinator dishwasher door and reconnect power.

9. Perform test cycle to check new upper arm spray pattern.

10. Inspect installation and make sure arm is stable during operation.

Repair Instructions:

The wash impeller in your Kelvinator dishwasher is a tiny plastic blade that plays a big role in sending water up through the wash arms. If this impeller is damaged or some of its fins are missing, it might not create enough pressure to move water properly through the wash arms. If this part is damaged it needs to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Wash Impeller

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and shut off water supply. Disconnect power cord and turn off water inlet valve.

2. Remove lower access panel or toe kick plate. Find mounting screws/clips and detach the bottom front panel.

3. Locate circulation pump and disconnect hoses. Squeeze hose clamps and slip hoses off pump water ports.

4. Remove circulation pump from Kelvinator dishwasher. Use a nut driver or wrench to detach mounting screws securing the pump assembly.

5. Take out impeller from inside pump body. The impeller slides straight out of the center opening after removing mounting hardware.

6. Clean inside of pump housing. Wipe away debris from the area where the new impeller will mount in the center opening.

7. Insert new impeller into pump body. Align tabs and firmly press impeller fully into center opening until flush.

8. Reattach circulation pump and hoses. Replace any gaskets, tighten mounting bolts and reconnect hoses to ports.

9. Replace access panel and test. Reconnect water and power, then run a test empty cycle to check operation.

10. Inspect wash performance during operation. Run full cycles to make sure you have adequate water coverage from new wash impeller.

Repair Instructions:

Most Kelvinator dishwashers have two filters in their filter assembly: a coarse one and a fine one, located in the sump. When one or both of these filters become clogged, it can lead to problems like reduced water flow and poor cleaning. You can clean these filters with warm soapy water. If they are damaged or worn they will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Screen Filter

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and shut off water. Disconnect power and turn off water inlet before working inside.

2. Open Kelvinator dishwasher door fully for access. The screen filter is typically located inside the bottom tub area.

3. Locate tab or clips holding used screen in place. Designs vary between manufacturers.

4. Squeeze tab ends to detach screen. Compress plastic clips together then gently pull screen straight out.

5. Rinse out removed screen in warm water. Thoroughly clean screen to remove any built-up debris or food particles.

6. Insert new replacement screen into opening. Slide screen into correct position behind retaining clips or tab ends.

7. Push firmly on screen until clips engage. Apply steady pressure evenly until screen is fully secured in place.

8. Close Kelvinator dishwasher door when complete. Reconnect power and water supply lines before operating.

9. Run hot rinse cycle to flush any residue. Check screen remains fully intact after cooldown period.

10. Run regular cycles for best cleaning performance.

Repair Instructions:

Kelvinator Dishwashers have a strainer positioned in the sump to capture food particles. When this strainer gets clogged, it can cause issues like reduced water flow and poor cleaning performance. You can clean the strainer with warm soapy water. If you are unable to get the filter clean or it is damaged then you will need to replace that filter.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Strainer

1. Turn off power to the Kelvinator dishwasher at the breaker box and turn off water supply.

2. Open the Kelvinator dishwasher door and remove the lower rack.

3. Locate the strainer cover plate on the bottom of the Kelvinator dishwasher tub towards the center. Remove the screws or clamps holding the strainer cover in place.

4. Lift off the strainer cover plate to access the strainer. Remove any debris around the strainer.

5. Rotate the strainer counterclockwise to unlock and remove it.

6. Clean out the strainer basket thoroughly. Make sure no food debris remains trapped.

7. Insert the new strainer basket and turn clockwise to lock it into place.

8. Replace the strainer cover plate and screw or clamp it back down securely.

9. Replace the lower rack. Restore power and water supply.

10. Run a short test cycle to verify no leaks around the new strainer.

Repair Instructions:

The upper wash arm is responsible for spreading water over the dishes in the lower rack. When water can't flow smoothly through this arm, it means the upper rack dishes won't get cleaned as they should. Over time, tiny bits of food can get stuck in the small holes of the wash arm, which can lead to dirty dishes. If you notice your dishes aren't coming out clean, it's likely due to a clogged wash arm. You can remove the spray arm and use a toothpick to clear any debris from the holes on it. If the part is damaged it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Upper Wash Arm Spinner

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and shut off water. Disconnect power and turn off water supply before starting repairs.

2. Remove upper basket. Simply lift basket up and out of Kelvinator dishwasher tub.

3. Locate wash arm spinner on door track. It is clipped into the interior door track at the top of the Kelvinator dishwasher tub.

4. Squeeze clips to remove spinner. Compress plastic clips squeezing sides then pull spinner straight out.

5. Inspect spinner clip positions for damage. Check clips are intact and track is clear to receive new spinner.

6. Push spinner ends into clip positions. Align spinner ends with clips and push firmly until clips engage securely.

7. Refit upper dishrack and mesh filters. Slide basket fully back into correct positions.

8. Reconnect power and water lines. Replace any access panels and run empty test cycle.

9. Check spray coverage during cycle. Observe spray from upper arm spinner through still glassware during wash.

Repair Instructions:

If the detergent dispenser is not opening properly to release the detergent it can cause the dishes to come out dirty. Make sure you are loading the unit properly and there are is nothing blocking the dispenser from opening. If the dispenser is clear then the dispenser could have failed. If the dispenser is not opening when power is sent to it then the dispenser will need to be replaced. You can test this with a multimeter and check your tech sheet or service manual for guidance.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Detergent Dispenser

1. Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.

2. Locate the dispenser inside the Kelvinator dishwasher tub. This is where detergent is added.

3. Remove any mounting screws or retaining clips. Look inside dispenser compartment.

4. Detach wires from dispenser module if applicable. Gently disconnect each wire.

5. Lift out the old dispenser module straight up once fully disconnected. Carefully remove.

6. Clean the mounting area where new dispenser will attach. Remove any debris.

7. Position replacement dispenser module onto mounting surface. Align holes if needed.

8. Reinstall mounting screws or clips to secure new dispenser. Don't overtighten fasteners.

9. Reconnect any wires one by one matching positions. Refer to photos if taken earlier.

10. Run a test cycle with detergent added. Make sure proper dispensing and dissolving occurs.

11. Check final installation and fit.

Repair Instructions:

Check drain pump, make sure it's clear of any debris or clogs. If the pump is clear and making unusual noises during operation the pump will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Drain Pump

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and disconnect hoses. Remove the power cord from the outlet and disconnect the drain and inlet water hoses from theold pump.

2. Remove kick panel. Look for mounting screws, tabs or clips along the bottom front of the appliance. Use a screwdriver to release any fasteners holding the kick panel in place.

3. Locate and remove old pump. The pump is usually located near the bottom center or bottom right corner inside the Kelvinator dishwasher. Use a wrench to remove any mounting bolts. Carefully pull out the old pump.

4. Clean area around new pump site. Wipe away any debris or standing water near where the new pump will mount.

5. Install new drain pump. Set the new pump in place and secure it with the mounting bolts. Hand-tighten bolts securely.

6. Reconnect hoses to pump. Push drain and inlet hoses securely over barbs at pump. Make sure the hose clamps are tight.

7. Replace kick panel. Align panel and secure with any screws or fasteners removed earlier.

8. Plug in and test Kelvinator dishwasher. Reconnect power cord and run a short cycle to check for leaks and ensure new pump is functioning properly.

Repair Instructions:

Most Kelvinator dishwashers have two filters in their filter assembly: a coarse one and a fine one, located in the sump. When one or both of these filters become clogged, it can lead to problems like reduced water flow and poor cleaning. You can clean these filters with warm soapy water. If they are damaged or worn they will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Kelvinator Dishwasher Filter Assembly

1. Unplug Kelvinator dishwasher and shut off water supply. Disconnect power and turn off water inlet before starting repairs.

2. Open Kelvinator dishwasher door fully to access filter area. The filter housing is usually located inside the tub walls.

3. Locate handle or release button on used filter housing. Each manufacturer's design differs slightly.

4. Squeeze handle tabs or push release button to access filter. The housing door will pop open once released.

5. Remove dirty filter and rinse housing with water. Thoroughly clean both parts to remove debris and food residue.

6. Insert replacement filter into open housing. Make sure tab edges and rim are sealing correctly inside housing chamber.

7. Close housing door and press or slide until latching. Apply firm pressure evenly until handle clicks shut securely.

8. Run hot water wash cycle. Reconnect utilities and run a high temp empty cycle to flush system.

9. Check for leaks and latching after cooldown. Inspect housing door seal and retighten if needed before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

Not loading your dishes properly can cause the dishes to come out dirty. You will need to make sure you have adequate space between the dishes so the water and detergent can get to the. Check you use and care manual for loading instructions for your Kelvinator dishwasher.

Repair Instructions:

Kelvinator Dishwashers typically have two types of filters: coarse and fine. When these filters get clogged, it results in reduced water flow and a lower cleaning performance. To maintain your Kelvinator dishwasher's efficiency, you can clean the filters. Remove them and give them a good wash with soapy, warm water using a brush. If the filters are damaged they will need to be replaced.

Repair Instructions:

Using excessive detergent in soft water can lead to oversudsing, which results in poor cleaning performance. It's important to adjust the amount of detergent you use based on your water's hardness level and the Kelvinator dishwasher cycle you select. It's important to use fresh detergent for optimal results.

Repair Instructions:

The temperature of your water may not be high enough for your Kelvinator dishwasher to work effectively. To make sure your Kelvinator dishwasher cleans your dishes properly, it's best to have the water supply at around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have your hot water set lower for safety, you can still make sure your Kelvinator dishwasher cleans well by using a longer cycle that includes a water heating step.