Unlock the Secrets: Essential Tips for How to Remove Heating Element from Amana Dishwasher

Is your Amana dishwasher not cleaning dishes properly? You might have a faulty heating element. A malfunctioning heating element can prevent your dishwasher from reaching the optimal temperature for effective cleaning. Before calling a repairman, you can try troubleshooting the issue yourself. This guide will walk you through the process of how to remove heating element from an Amana dishwasher, allowing you to inspect and potentially replace it.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Before you begin, remember that working with electrical appliances requires caution. Here are some crucial safety measures to prioritize:

• Disconnect power: Always unplug the dishwasher from the power source before attempting any repairs.
• Wear protective gear: Use insulated gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential electrical shock or sharp edges.
• Be aware of water: There may be residual water in the dishwasher, so be careful to avoid any electrical contact with wet surfaces.

Tools You’ll Need

To successfully remove the heating element from your Amana dishwasher, you’ll need the following tools:

• Phillips screwdriver: For removing screws.
• Flathead screwdriver: For prying off any clips or covers.
• Socket wrench: For loosening nuts, if necessary.
• Multimeter: To test the heating element’s continuity.

Locating the Heating Element

The heating element is typically located at the bottom of your Amana dishwasher, near the drain hose. It might be concealed behind a panel or cover. Here’s how to find it:
1. Remove the lower access panel: This panel is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher door or near the base. You might need to remove screws or clips to detach it.
2. Locate the heating element: Once the access panel is removed, look for a metal coil or tube with wires connected to it. This is the heating element.

Removing the Heating Element

Now that you’ve located the heating element, follow these steps to remove it:
1. Disconnect the wires: Disconnect the wires leading to the heating element. Be sure to note the wire positions for reconnection later.
2. Remove the mounting screws: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove any screws securing the heating element to the dishwasher tub.
3. Remove the heating element: Carefully pull the heating element out from its housing. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components.

Inspecting the Heating Element

Once you’ve removed the heating element, it’s time to inspect it for damage. Look for:

• Visible cracks or breaks: Any cracks or breaks in the heating element’s coil or tube indicate damage and require replacement.
• Corrosion or rust: Corrosion can hinder the element’s ability to heat properly.
• Burnt or discolored areas: These signs suggest the element has been overheated and may be faulty.

Testing the Heating Element

If you have a multimeter, you can test the heating element for continuity. This will confirm whether it’s receiving power and functioning correctly. Here’s how:
1. Set the multimeter to ohms: Select the ohms setting on your multimeter.
2. Connect the probes to the heating element terminals: Touch the probes to the two terminals of the heating element.
3. Read the resistance: A reading on the multimeter indicates that the heating element is working. A reading of infinity means the element is broken.

Replacing the Heating Element

If you’ve determined that the heating element is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. You can find a replacement heating element specifically designed for your Amana dishwasher model at a local appliance parts store or online.
1. Install the new heating element: Position the new heating element in its housing and secure it with the mounting screws.
2. Reconnect the wires: Connect the wires to the new heating element, ensuring they are correctly matched to their corresponding terminals.
3. Reassemble the dishwasher: Put the access panel back in place and secure it with screws or clips.

Repowering the Dishwasher

Once you’ve completed the replacement, it’s time to reconnect the power:
1. Plug in the dishwasher: Plug the dishwasher back into the power outlet.
2. Test the dishwasher: Run a cycle to ensure the heating element is working properly.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Heating Element

While a faulty heating element can cause cleaning issues, other factors could also contribute to your dishwasher’s malfunction. Consider these possibilities:

• Clogged drain hose: A clogged drain hose can prevent water from draining properly, leading to inefficient cleaning.
• Faulty control board: The control board might send incorrect signals to the heating element, preventing it from working correctly.
• Low water pressure: Inadequate water pressure can affect the dishwasher’s ability to reach the desired temperature.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use a generic heating element instead of an Amana-specific one?
A: It’s generally recommended to use a heating element specifically designed for your Amana dishwasher model. Using a generic element might not be compatible with your dishwasher’s specifications and could lead to issues.
Q: How often should I replace the heating element in my dishwasher?
A: The lifespan of a heating element varies depending on usage and water quality. However, if you notice signs of damage or malfunction, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible.
Q: What should I do if the heating element continues to malfunction after replacement?
A: If the problem persists after replacing the heating element, it’s likely that another component is faulty. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Q: Can I remove the heating element without disconnecting the power?
A: No, it’s crucial to disconnect the power before attempting any repairs on your dishwasher. Working on a live appliance poses a serious risk of electric shock.
By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can successfully remove the heating element from your Amana dishwasher and potentially resolve cleaning issues. Remember, if you’re unsure about any part of the process or encounter difficulties, it’s best to consult a qualified appliance repair professional.