How to Replace the High Limit Switch on a Kenmore Dishwasher Heater

Excessive heat can damage your dishes and melt the tub of your dishwasher.

Your Kenmore dishwasher uses a high-limit thermostat to protect the tub and contents from excessive heat. If the temperature in the dishwasher rises above a preset level, the high-limit switch opens, interrupting the flow of electricity to the heater. Some models use a self-resetting switch that will restore the flow of current after the dishwasher cools; other models use a single-use switch that requires replacement to restore the current. If your dishwasher needs a new switch, you can replace the high limit switch on a Kenmore dishwasher heater.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Shallow pan

Instructions

1. Turn off the power supply to the Kenmore dishwasher.

2. Remove the two Phillips screws holding the toe panel to the front of the dishwasher. The toe panel is under the front edge of the door, at floor level. Slide the toe panel down and pull it out to remove it from the dishwasher.

3. Look under the front edge of the dishwasher. Use a flashlight to help you find the high limit switch. The switch is attached to the bottom of the sump assembly and has two wires connected to it.

4. Disconnect the two wires from the leads coming from the switch. Turn the switch one-quarter turn counterclockwise and pull it straight out of the bottom of the sump assembly.

5. Insert a replacement switch in the hole in the bottom of the sump. Turn the switch one-quarter turn clockwise to lock it in place. Connect the two wires to the switch leads.

6. Place the toe panel on the front of the dishwasher. Lift the panel slightly and insert and tighten the two Phillips screws.

7. Turn on the power supply to the dishwasher.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you drain all the water from the dishwasher before removing the high limit switch. If you can’t remove all the water, place a shallow pan under the switch to catch any water that comes out of the switch hole.

• Use a replacement switch with the same voltage and temperature rating as the original. Using a different switch could cause permanent damage to the dishwasher and create a risk of fire.

References

• Whirlpool: KitchenAid/Kenmore Dishwasher Service Manual