How to Replace a Dishwasher Heating Element [Complete Guide]

Replacing a dishwasher heating element can feel daunting, but with the right guidance, it’s a manageable DIY task. The heating element is essential for heating water during wash cycles and drying dishes. When it fails, your dishwasher may not clean or dry effectively, causing frustration and inconvenience.

One common pain point is accessing and safely handling the heating element, often involving disconnecting electrical and water supplies. Additionally, finding the correct replacement part for your specific dishwasher model can be tricky.

Did you know the heating element in a dishwasher can heat water to temperatures as high as 155°F? This high temperature effectively kills bacteria, ensuring your dishes are sanitized.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing your dishwasher’s heating element. You can restore your appliance’s performance without the need for costly professional repairs. Let’s get started!

What Is a Heating Element in the Dishwasher?

A heating element in a dishwasher is a crucial component that ensures your dishes come out clean and dry. Located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, this element heats the water to a high temperature, typically around 140°F (60°C). This high temperature is essential for effectively removing food residues and killing bacteria, ensuring your dishes are both clean and sanitized.

In addition to heating water, the heating element also plays a vital role in drying your dishes. During the drying cycle, it heats the air inside the dishwasher, causing moisture to evaporate from the dishes. This process helps ensure that your dishes come out dry and ready for use, without the need for manual drying.

What Are the Signs That Your Dishwasher Heating Element Needs Replacement?

Here are the key signs that your dishwasher heating element needs replacement:

1. Dirty Dishes: If dishes come out dirty or with food particles, the water may not be heating properly.
2. Cold Dishes: After a wash cycle, dishes should be warm. Cold dishes suggest a heating element issue.
3. Wet Dishes: The heating element helps dry dishes by heating the air inside. Wet dishes indicate a problem.
4. Extended Cycle Duration: A malfunctioning heating element can make the cycle longer, as the appliance struggles to reach the necessary temperature.
5. Residue and Cloudy Dishes: Insufficient water heating prevents detergent from dissolving and rinsing off properly, leaving residue or cloudiness.
6. Unpleasant Odors: A faulty heating element can lead to bacteria buildup, causing unpleasant odors inside the dishwasher.
7. Visible Damage: Check for corrosion, blistering, or cracks on the heating element. Visible damage means it needs replacement.
8. Cold Interior: If the dishwasher interior feels cold or only slightly warm after a cycle, the heating element isn’t working correctly.

If you notice these signs, it’s time to replace the heating element to restore your dishwasher’s performance.

What Tools Do You Need to Replace a Dishwasher Heating Element?

Here’s what you’ll need to replace a dishwasher heating element:

1. Screwdriver: Essential for removing screws from the access panel and other components.
2. Nut Driver Set: Useful for removing and securing nuts that hold the heating element in place.
3. Channel Lock Pliers: Helpful for gripping and turning nuts or other components.
4. Crescent Wrench: Needed to remove mounting nuts and other fasteners.
5. Multimeter: For testing the continuity of the heating element to ensure it is faulty before replacement.
6. Work Gloves: Protect your hands while working with electrical components and sharp edges.
7. Towel: To catch any water that may spill during the process.
8. Dishwasher Heater Wrench: Specific wrench designed for heating elements.

How Can I Replace the Heating Element of the Dishwasher?

To replace the heating element of the dishwasher:

Ensure Safety

Turn off the power by unplugging the dishwasher from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker that supplies power. Shut off the water supply to the dishwasher to prevent any water spillage during the process.

Access the Heating Element

Remove the lower access panel at the bottom front of the dishwasher using a screwdriver. Set the panel aside. Next, use pliers to disconnect the wires attached to the heating element terminals. Note the arrangement of the wires to ensure correct reconnection later.

Remove the Old Heating Element

Locate the heating element, typically found at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Use a crescent wrench or nut driver to remove the nuts or screws securing the element. Carefully pull the heating element out of its housing, wiggling it gently if needed to free it from its position.

Install the New Heating Element

Prepare the new heating element by applying a small amount of rinse aid to the seals to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks. Insert the new heating element into the same position as the old one, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes. Secure the element using the appropriate tools, making sure it is snug but not overly tight to avoid damaging the seals.

Reconnect Electrical Connections

Reattach the wires to the terminals of the new heating element, ensuring the connections are secure and match the arrangement noted earlier. This step is crucial for the proper functioning of the new element.

Reassemble the Dishwasher

Replace the lower access panel and secure it with screws. Restore power by plugging the dishwasher back into the electrical outlet or switching the circuit breaker back on. Turn the water supply back on to complete the reassembly process.

Test the Dishwasher

Run a test cycle to ensure the new heating element is working correctly. Check for proper heating and drying of dishes, and inspect for any leaks around the heating element. 

By following these steps, you can replace the heating element in your dishwasher, ensuring it operates efficiently and effectively. If you encounter difficulties, consult the dishwasher’s manual or seek professional assistance.

When Should I Consider Calling a Professional for Help?

1. Lack of Experience with Electrical Repairs: If you’re not familiar with electrical work or appliance repairs, it’s safer to hire a professional. Working with electrical components can be hazardous, and improper handling can lead to electric shock or further damage.
   
2. Complex Dishwasher Models: Certain dishwasher models have intricate designs that make accessing and replacing the heating element more difficult. Professionals have the expertise and tools to handle these complexities efficiently.
   
3. Uncertainty About Diagnosis: If you’re unsure whether the heating element is the root cause of the problem, consult a professional. They can accurately diagnose the issue and confirm if replacing the heating element is the right solution.
   
4. Visible Damage to Electrical Components: If you notice any visible damage to the electrical components, wiring, or connectors inside the dishwasher, call a professional. Damaged electrical parts can pose serious safety risks and require expert handling.
   
5. Persistent Issues After Replacement: If you replaced the heating element but the dishwasher still doesn’t function correctly, it’s time to call a professional. There may be other underlying issues that need to be addressed.
   
6. Warranty Concerns: If your dishwasher is still under warranty, attempting a DIY repair might void it. In such cases, contact the manufacturer or a certified repair technician to handle the replacement.
   
7. Lack of Proper Tools: If you don’t have the necessary tools, such as a multimeter for testing continuity or specific wrenches, a professional will have the right equipment to perform the task safely and effectively.
   
8. Time Constraints: If you’re short on time or need the dishwasher fixed urgently, hiring a professional ensures a quicker resolution.

What Are the Consequences of Not Replacing the Dishwasher’s Heating Element?

If you don’t replace a faulty heating element, your dishwasher’s performance will decline. The heating element raises the water temperature, which is essential for cleaning and sanitizing dishes. Without proper heating, food particles won’t be fully removed, and bacteria like salmonella and E. coli may survive, leading to dirty dishes and potential health risks.

The heating element also plays a critical role in drying your dishes. Without it, dishes will come out wet, requiring manual drying. This not only adds extra work but also means dishes will take longer to dry naturally, which can be inefficient and inconvenient.

A malfunctioning heating element can result in an unsanitary dishwasher. Inadequate heating can lead to bacterial growth inside the appliance, causing unpleasant odors. This bacterial buildup can compromise the hygiene of your dishes, posing health risks if harmful bacteria are not eliminated.

Without a functioning heating element, your dishwasher may run longer cycles as it struggles to reach the necessary temperature. This inefficiency leads to increased energy and water consumption, raising your utility bills and negatively impacting the environment.

FAQs

Is It Worth Replacing the Heating Element in a Dishwasher?

Replacing the heating element in a dishwasher is worth considering if the appliance is relatively new and in good condition. If the cost of repair is significantly lower than buying a new dishwasher and the dishwasher hasn’t required frequent repairs, replacement can be a practical option.

What Precautions Should I Take Before Starting the Replacement?

Before replacing the heating element, turn off the dishwasher’s power by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker. Also, shut off the water supply to prevent leaks. Gather all necessary tools and protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to ensure a safe and efficient repair.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Dishwasher Heater?

The cost to replace a dishwasher heating element typically ranges from $150 to $300. This includes $25 to $100 for the part itself and additional labor charges if you hire a professional. DIY replacement can reduce costs but requires having the right tools and skills.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Dishwasher Heating Element?

A dishwasher heating element generally lasts between 5 to 10 years. This lifespan can vary based on usage, water quality, and maintenance. Regular upkeep and proper care can help maximize the longevity of the heating element and the overall appliance.

Does the Heating Element in a Dishwasher Heat the Water?

Yes, the heating element in a dishwasher heats the water. Although dishwashers use

water from your home supply, the heating element further raises the temperature to ensure effective cleaning and sanitization. It typically increases the water temperature by an additional 10-15 degrees.

Conclusion

Replacing a dishwasher heating element may seem challenging, but it’s a manageable task with the right guidance. This element is vital for heating water during wash cycles and drying dishes effectively. When it fails, you’ll notice a decline in cleaning and drying performance, leading to frustration.

Accessing and handling the heating element involves disconnecting electrical and water supplies, and finding the correct replacement part can be tricky. However, understanding these steps and signs of failure can help you address the issue promptly.

By replacing the heating element yourself, you can restore your dishwasher’s efficiency without resorting to costly repairs. If you’re uncertain at any stage, seeking professional assistance ensures safety and accuracy in the replacement process.