Discover the Ultimate Guide on How to Test Whirlpool Dishwasher Circulation Pump

Is your Whirlpool dishwasher leaving dirty dishes behind? A common culprit for this frustrating issue is a malfunctioning circulation pump. This essential component is responsible for pumping water throughout the dishwasher, ensuring proper cleaning and rinsing.
Knowing how to test the whirlpool dishwasher circulation pump can save you time and money by helping you diagnose the problem before calling a repair technician. This guide will walk you through the process of testing the circulation pump, giving you the confidence to tackle this common dishwasher repair.

Understanding the Circulation Pump’s Role

The circulation pump, often called the wash pump, is a vital part of your dishwasher’s operation. It’s a small electric motor that creates suction to draw water from the tub and push it through the spray arms, ensuring dishes are thoroughly cleaned. When the pump malfunctions, it can lead to several issues, including:

• Poor Cleaning: Dishes may come out dirty or with food residue.
• No Water Flow: The dishwasher may not fill properly or have weak water pressure.
• Water Leakage: A faulty pump can cause leaks from the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Loud Noises: A malfunctioning pump can produce unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or humming.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Multimeter: This essential tool allows you to measure voltage and resistance, helping you determine if the pump is receiving power.
• Screwdriver: You’ll need a screwdriver to access the pump and disconnect wires.
• Flashlight: A flashlight will help you see inside the dishwasher and locate the pump.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from potential debris while working.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or dirty components.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Test the Whirlpool Dishwasher Circulation Pump

1. Disconnect Power: The first and most important step is to disconnect the power supply to your dishwasher. This will prevent any electrical shocks while you work.
2. Locate the Circulation Pump: The circulation pump is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the drain hose. It’s usually a cylindrical device with a small motor and a hose connected to it.
3. Remove the Pump Cover: Remove the screws holding the pump cover in place and carefully remove the cover.
4. Disconnect the Wires: Disconnect the electrical wires connected to the pump. Use a screwdriver to carefully release the wire terminals.
5. Check for Continuity: Use your multimeter to test the pump’s motor for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the pump’s motor terminals. You should get a reading between 10 and 50 ohms. If the multimeter reads “OL” (open loop), the motor is likely burnt out.
6. Check for Voltage: Connect the multimeter to the AC power source, setting it to the voltage setting. Touch the probes to the pump’s electrical terminals. You should read a voltage close to the voltage supplied to your dishwasher (usually 110-120 volts). If there’s no voltage, the problem might be with the dishwasher’s wiring or control board.
7. Test the Pump Manually: If the pump has continuity and receives voltage, you can test it manually. Connect the pump’s wires directly to a 12-volt battery (observe proper polarity). If the pump spins, it’s working. If it doesn’t, the pump is likely faulty.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the pump tests faulty, you’ll need to replace it. If the pump tests good, the issue might lie elsewhere:

• Clogged Drain Hose: A clogged drain hose can prevent water from draining properly, causing the pump to strain.
• Faulty Control Board: The dishwasher’s control board might be sending incorrect signals to the pump, causing it to malfunction.
• Broken Spray Arms: Broken spray arms can restrict water flow and put extra strain on the pump.

Replacing the Circulation Pump

If you’ve determined the circulation pump is faulty, follow these steps to replace it:
1. Disconnect Power: Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.
2. Remove the Old Pump: Carefully remove the old pump by detaching the wires and hoses.
3. Install the New Pump: Install the new pump in the same location as the old one, connecting the wires and hoses securely.
4. Secure the Pump Cover: Replace the pump cover and secure it with screws.
5. Reconnect Power: Reconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.

Tips for Preventing Future Problems

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your dishwasher regularly to prevent food debris and mineral buildup from clogging the pump and drain hose.
• Use Dishwasher-Safe Detergent: Avoid using harsh detergents that can damage the pump and other components.
• Don’t Overload the Dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can put extra strain on the pump and other components.

Time to Shine: Your Dishwasher is Ready to Go!

By following these steps, you can confidently test and replace your Whirlpool dishwasher‘s circulation pump. With a little patience and the right tools, you can get your dishwasher back in tip-top shape, ensuring sparkling clean dishes every time.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a standard multimeter to test the circulation pump?
A: Yes, a standard multimeter is all you need to test the pump for continuity and voltage.
Q: What if the pump is getting power but won’t spin?
A: If the pump is receiving voltage but not spinning, it’s likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
Q: How often should I clean my dishwasher’s circulation pump?
A: While you don’t need to clean the pump itself regularly, it’s essential to clean the dishwasher’s filter and drain hose periodically to prevent clogging that could affect the pump’s performance.
Q: Is it safe to test the pump manually with a battery?
A: Yes, it’s safe to test the pump manually with a 12-volt battery as long as you observe proper polarity and take precautions to avoid electrical shocks.
Q: Can I replace the circulation pump myself?
A: Yes, you can usually replace the circulation pump yourself. However, if you’re uncomfortable with electrical work or plumbing, it’s best to consult a professional.