If your Bosch dishwasher is overheating, the most likely cause is a shorted heating element or heating element assembly that is driving water temperature higher than normal. On some models, a bad high-limit thermostat or thermostat can also cause dishwasher overheating, though those parts fail less often and should be tested with a multimeter only after the heating circuit checks out. It is also worth checking whether the thermostat is mounted firmly against the tub in its support bracket, since a loose thermostat can misread temperature and let the dishwasher get too hot. In some cases, the problem is not a failed part at all but incoming water that is hotter than the recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your Bosch dishwasher gets too hot or you suspect a dishwasher heating element shorted, start with these common causes in order and inspect the related wiring and connections while you are there. Once you know what needs attention, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact Bosch replacement part, whether that is a heating element, heating element assembly, high-limit thermostat, or thermostat, for your specific dishwasher.
01 - Bosch Dishwasher Heating Element
A shorted heating element may be raising the temperature of the water beyond what is normal for proper operation and causing the dishwasher to overheat. You can use a multimeter to test the heating element for a short to help determine if the component should be replaced.
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A shorted heating element assembly may be raising the temperature of the water beyond what is normal for proper operation and causing the dishwasher to overheat. You can use a multimeter to test the assembly for a short to help determine if the component should be replaced.
The high-limit thermostat monitors the dishwasher internal temperature and shuts off the heating element if the dishwasher overheats. If the high-limit thermostat is malfunctioning, it may shut off the voltage to the heating element circuit. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the high limit thermostat check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, test the thermostat by using a multimeter to test it for continuity.
The thermostat should be firmly pressed against the tub. If the thermostat is loose or is not in the support bracket correctly, it will not sense the water and air temperature properly, and can cause the dishwasher to overheat.
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05 - Bosch Dishwasher Thermostat
The thermostat monitors the dishwasher internal temperature and shuts off the heating element if the dishwasher overheats. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it may shut off the voltage to the heating element circuit. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the thermostat check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, test the thermostat by using a multimeter to check it for continuity.
The water supply temperature may be too hot. The recommended water supply temperature for a dishwasher to clean properly is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). If your hot water temperature is higher, it should be turned lower for safety reasons.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Bosch dishwasher overheating?
How do I test a Bosch dishwasher heating element for an overheating problem?
Can a thermostat cause a Bosch dishwasher to overheat?
Can water that is too hot make my Bosch dishwasher overheat?
How do I find the right Bosch dishwasher heating element or thermostat part?