Filter fuzz too often

Dishwasher Repair
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1

Despite thoroughly rinsing off dirty crockery before use, (we’re questioning the use of the DW at all !!) our KA DW’s filter keeps getting clogged. I cleaned it about 2 months ago, and before that it was cleaned by a technician about 12 months ago.

The filter is getting blocked by a "fuzz", (maybe an algae?), not by particles.

What could be wrong ? Hard/soft water ? Wrong type of detergent ? Not enough rinse agent ?

Thanks

3

Very likely this problem caused by a wrong detergent. You can learn how to choose right detergent from the article How To Improve Dishwasher Performance.

Here are the break down diagrams for the Kitchen Aid dishwasher http://www.appliancepartspros.com/partsearch/model.aspx?diagram_id=119050&&model_id=261891

Gene.

4

Well, darn, sorry it took so long to get that heating element. I notice APP still lists it as out of stock. Does not seem like that unusual a part.

Your problem should be an easy fix, once we figure out where the problem lies.

  1. Use a meter to check the connector block to make certain you are getting 120volts on each outside terminal connection.

If so, then go to the next step.

  1. Since your heating element is new, make sure it is not the problem by testing for resistance (continuity) and checking to make certain it is connected properly. (Yes, I would hate for you to find out the element was bad after waiting for it, so let’s hope this is not the problem even though it would be an easy fix)

If the heating element checks out, go to the next step.

  1. Your machine has a thermal fuse, thermostats and thermistors. You need to check each one for continuity, as it is likely one or more failed when your element failed (or failed independently of your element failing, either way a problem)

Unless you have a very unusual situation, this process will locate the problem.

Please post and let us know what you find. Thanks

5

Thanks for the reply and not to worry about the time it took. I had another (older) dryer to put in its place during the down time.

After I posted my original, I noticed a posting which outlined what to check out (essentially what you wrote).
I checked the NEW element (has continuity, therefore good).
I checked the 250 deg thermostat in a cold state, and it too had continuity —good.
I lastly checked the ceramic fuse and (Yippee?!?) it was open.

I have ordered the fuse and thermostat kit. (((It was in stock and should be here shortly.)))

If this does not fix the problem. I will be in touch.

I appreciate your follow-up and I really appreciate this site and the information contained within it.

THANKS again.

6

That will do it, be sure to replace both the thermal fuse and the thermostat even if the thermostat is working.

Thanks for updating us, good luck with your machine.