The Kenmore dishwasher is especially known for a few errors including the fact that it does not fill water at times.
To fix this issue, you first need to understand the causes or triggers. The causes of a Kenmore dishwasher running a full cycle without even filling water vary and can be as diverse as you ca imagine. Usually, the causes may include but are not limited to float switch issues, problems with the float assembly, the water inlet valve, and drain valve concerns.
I will explore some of the reasons why your Kenmore dishwasher isn’t filling up with water as it should. This may happen randomly or it could gradually lead to the situation.Captured below are some of the most common reasons why your dishwasher is not filling up with water as it should. Note them as you troubleshoot and find the right solution.
Why is My Kenmore Dishwasher Not Filling with Water
1. Malfunctioning Water Inlet Valve
Usually, the dishwasher relies on the inlet valve to allow water into the washer. Note that the inlet valve opens to let water get into the dishwasher. In case this valve gets clogged, then the flow of water will be affected.
The same is likely to happen when the valve is defective. In case of such blockages, your dishwasher will either wash partially due to insufficient water flow or fail to wash completely as all the water may leak out causing mold formation on the floor.
If this is to happen, you should note that water inlet valves are not easy to repair. You should avoid attempting to repair. However, based on my exoprince, once th valve is bl;ocked, the best option is to replace it because chances of this happening many times again is high.
Fix – Replace the Valve
- Buy a compatible type of dishwasher inlet valve. You may have to use professionals who understand the Kenmore dishwasher to find the right replacement for th machine.
- Remove the inner access panel and toea kick. Most dishwashers have the inlet valve at the lower section of the machine close to the rectangular section known as the toe and kick. Depending on the model of washer you own, you may need to remove the door panel in front of the dishwasher so that you can access the mounting screw
- Inspect the water lines. Find the inlet valve which is basically comes with two lines connected to it. Before taking and action, you should first check to see if these two water lines are contributing in any way towards the inlet problem.
- Check for kiknks and leaks, and also poor connection and deal with it immediately.
- If this is cleared, run the dishwasher to see if the problem has been fixed. If not, then proceed to switch off the power to eliminate the possibility of electrcocution.
- Shut off the water supply valve located under the sink by turning it counterclockwise. This
- Disconnect the water supply line
- Disconnect el;ectrcial connectiosn and remove the valve
- Next remove the elbow fitting to make room for the new one
- Install the new inlet valve and restore water supply to the machine once more. This process should help resolve the issue you are currently facing.
2. Problem with the Main Control Board
Dishwashers are controlled from the main control board. This is how every electrical component of the dishwasher access power to run. Whenever the board is faulty, chances are that it fails to supply power to the inlet valve.
This prevents the valve from opening. As such the dishwasher will not fill with water as fast. The overall effect is that the wash cycle is hindered and the m,achine fails to perform as expected.
Fix – Rectify all Electric Issues and Replace the Board
- Have professional electrician handle everything electric about the washer. This would be the most recommended solution as it prevents unnecessary accidents.
- However, if you choose to fix the problem yourself, start by first switching off the power supply to the dishwasher.
- Remove the screws at the low access panel using a screw driver
- Get rid of the insulation or panel
- Next you need to get rid of the inner screws that secure the control board panel
- You should then disconnect the door wire connector form the panel
- Unthread the screw holding the junction box cover to pull it off
- Drop the support panel and pull it out
- Take a mental note of the orientation of the main board wires and then disconnect them
- Next you need to remove the grounding screw and squeeze the old board’s mounting pins free
- At this point you are good to install a new main control board
- Align the board, fix the wires as they should have been and replace the screws before sealing everything as it was in the old board.
- I would advice having a professional dishwasher expert handle this delicate process on your behalf.
3. Float Switch Problems
The machine’s float switch is a safety element that is designed to help shut off water from the water inlet valve especially when the dishwasher overfills. In case the float switch has a defect that leads to it being stuck, then it will also affect how the dishwasher fills up correctly.
Use a multimeter to test the float switch for its continuity. It becomes a problem if the switch is defective.
Fix – Replace the Switch
- Replace the float switch in case it is defective.
4. Faulty Power Board/ Power Supply Issues
All electrical power to the dishwasher is provided from the control power board. Faulty boards tend to stay unstable as far as power supply goes. They also affect the supply of power to the water inlet valve which in turn prevents them from opening and allowing for relevant water to fill the tank. On the power concerns, remember that
Fix – Have a Professional Fix the Power Issues
- Check to see that all the connections on the control board are properly connected, and make sure they are plugged in tightly.
- Next check the control board for any signs of corrosion, burn marks, or other damage to the board and wires.
5. Issue with Water Supply
As time goes by, calcium deposits tend to build up in water supply valves. It may also accumulate inside the small filter screen inside the water inlet valve. In case the water valve gets clogged with sediments, then not that the dishwasher will fail to fill up correctly.
Fix – Deal with the Water Supply Issue
- Don’t rush to work on the water line before shutting off its supply.
- You have to carry out an inspection of the valve to know if it is indeed clogged.
- What’s more, also check if the water pressure of the valve is okay. Note that it should be atleast 20 psi to work correctly.
6. Problematic dishwasher pressure switch
The dishwasher’s pressure switch is one element that sends signals off the water inlet valve after the right amount of water gets in for a wash cycle.
Fix – Repair/ Replace the Pressure Switch
- In case the pressure switch malfunctions then it will prevent the inlet valve from opening up and filling the tank.
- Use a multimeter to confirm the pressure switch’s terminals for all the necessary changes in electrical continuity. This should happen before and after you have blown air into the pressure tube attached to it.
- In case the switch fails to test correctly then consider replacing it altogether.
7. The Dishwasher Door is Unlatched
Note that when the door is unlatched or opened it will prevent the dishwasher from filling water as it should. Check the flashing start/ resume indicator light as it signifies the presence of a problem.
Fix – Ensure the Door is latched Correctly
- In case the flashing light keeps recurring then you must check that the door is properly locked.
- Next you should press the start/ resume button and proceed with the cycle.
8. Problem with Water Supply Line
If you want the dishwasher to fill up then make sure that the supply valve is turned in such a way that it can open. Find the kitchen water supply and then twist open when you need. This will allow for water to flow through the supply line and into the unit.
Fix – Check for Clogs, Bends, and Blockages
- Make sure that the hose pipes are not bent or crooked at any point. Straighten them when crooked and replace the crooked or leaking lines
- Verify that the filters are not clogged. If they are, then need to clean the drains
9. Drain Hose is Poorly Positioned
Most people assume this yet is a viable reason why your washer isn’t draining. Make sure to always position the drain at least 20 inches above the floor every time you install a new dishwasher. NAythign lower than 20 inches off the ground means that the washer is siphoning.
Fix Raise the Position of the Drain Hose
- Make sure to confirm that the drain hose is correctly stationed.
Your dishwasher may struggle with water inlet for different reasons. Do not panic when you realize that your Kenmore dishwasher isn’t fillign with water during a wash cycle. The only way to fix them is to first understand the possible cause. If all the attempted troubleshooting solutions fail, contact the customer support for better help.
