Kenmore Dishwasher: not filling

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore Dishwasher not filling with water? This issue can manifest as a humming sound without water flow at the start of the cycle, or complete silence. If your dishwasher is failing to draw water into the tub, it may be due to a faulty water inlet valve or other common problems. Understanding these symptoms can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • The water inlet valve and float switch are specifically highlighted as primary causes for Kenmore models not filling.

Possible Causes

Faulty or clogged water inlet valve

How to Identify: No water enters when a cycle starts, humming from inlet area, confirmed by testing with multimeter or checking blocked screens.

Part: Water inlet valve / solenoid

Control board failing to signal inlet valve

How to Identify: No voltage at inlet valve when tested despite correct supply and switch conditions, possibly error codes or cycle failure patterns.

Part: Electronic control board / timer

Clogged water inlet filter screens/dirt in valve

How to Identify: Restricted water flow into the inlet valve, possibly resolved by cleaning screens.

Part: Inlet valve filter screen

DIY Solutions

Check and ensure water supply is open and adequate

Easy 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: None
  1. Locate the water supply shutoff valve for the dishwasher (typically under the sink or behind the dishwasher).
  2. Ensure the valve is fully open.
  3. Check for kinks or damage in the supply hose.
  4. Turn on nearby household faucet to confirm water pressure is adequate.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off dishwasher power before moving it to inspect hoses.

Inspect and clean float assembly

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, soft brush
  1. Disconnect power to the dishwasher.
  2. Remove the bottom dish rack to access the float at the tub bottom.
  3. Lift the float to ensure it moves freely; if stuck, clean around it.
  4. If debris is present, remove and clean the float and guide.
  5. Reconnect power and test the dishwasher.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before working inside dishwasher.

Test and replace water inlet valve

Advanced 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter, Screwdriver, Adjustable wrench
  1. Turn off power and water to the dishwasher.
  2. Remove lower access panel and locate the water inlet valve.
  3. Use a multimeter to test continuity across the valve solenoid.
  4. If continuity is absent, replace the inlet valve with a correct Kenmore part.
  5. Reconnect wiring and water supply, then test a cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off; improper wiring can cause shock.

Professional Repairs

Control board diagnostics and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

Pressure switch testing and replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

After verifying water supply and float assembly, if dishwasher still doesn’t fill with water.
If multimeter tests indicate control board or pressure switch failure.
If you are uncomfortable with electrical component testing or part replacement.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect and clean water inlet valve filter: Clogs that restrict water flow
    Frequency: annually
  • Check float movement: Float-related fill issues
    Frequency: every 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dishwasher not filling?
Common causes include a faulty inlet valve, clogged filter screens, or a malfunctioning control board.
How do I fix Kenmore Dishwasher not filling myself?
Start by ensuring the water supply is open, clean the float assembly, or test the water inlet valve.
How much does it cost to fix not filling?
Professional repairs range from $50 for pressure switch replacement to $350 for control board diagnostics.
When should I call a technician for not filling?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions don't work, especially for complex issues like control board failure.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged water inlet valve
  • Faulty float switch
  • Kinked or blocked water supply line

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the water inlet valve for clogs. Disconnect the water supply line, remove the valve, and clean any debris. Reinstall and test the dishwasher.

  2. Inspect and test the float switch. Remove the cover and ensure the float moves freely. If it’s stuck, clean it. If faulty, replace the float switch.

  3. Examine the water supply line for kinks or blockages. Straighten any kinks and clear any obstructions. Ensure the water supply valve is fully open.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. 12 year old Kenmore dishwasher not filling up.

Community Discussions

not filling up with water

Water is entering the machine but at low pressure; the soap dispenser opens and soap dissolves, but dishes remain unwashed.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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