Kenmore Dishwasher Parts
While Kenmore dishwashers are known for their quality, they can start wearing down as they get older and may even stop working. Before you call a repair company or haul your dishwasher to the dump, however, it is a good idea to take a closer look. Most Kenmore dishwasher parts are much cheaper than buying a new machine and with a little time and knowledge; many problems can be fixed quite easily.
Many dishwasher problems are caused by a simple obstruction and do not require repairs at all. Utensils and other small objects such as lids and bowls can easily get stuck in the sprayer arm or block the filter screen, causing your dishwasher to make grinding or clicking noises, not to drain properly or even to stop running entirely. Additionally, if the machine will not turn on at all, it is a good idea to check the plug and make sure the breaker has not been tripped.
Because of the constant flow of water, soap and chemical cleaners flowing through a dishwasher, corrosion is a common problem. When it builds up, it can prevent pieces of the machine from working properly and if not dealt with, may even cause pieces to break. One of the most common areas for corrosion is in the detergent dispenser. This can be easily wiped away with a piece of steel wool. If the dispenser will not open properly, the problem may also be a broken timer lever, which can be easily replaced at any store selling Kenmore dishwasher parts.
Another debilitating problem common with most types of dishwashers is that the door will not close. If you have checked to make sure that the problem is not caused by an obstruction, it may be caused by broken Kenmore dishwasher parts such as the door spring assembly or the latch itself. While this can completely shut down a dishwasher due to the fact that it will not run if the door is not properly latched, these parts are relatively easy to find and can be installed according to your dishwasher user’s manual.
One rule of thumb when deciding whether to replace your dishwasher is to consider the cost of the parts and labor and the cost of a new dishwasher. If the cost of a new dishwasher is more than twice the cost of repair, then it is probably worth it to keep your old machine. Because many parts such as door spring assemblies, wash impellers, time levers, door latches and sprayer arms are inexpensive and easy to find, it may well be even more worth it to find the Kenmore dishwasher parts you need and to do the repairs yourself.
