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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Dishwasher RepairWhirlpool Dishwasher overheating Repair
Whirlpool Dishwasher overheating
If your Whirlpool dishwasher is overheating, start with the parts most likely to cause the temperature to run too high. A shorted heating element is the most common culprit, followed closely by the heating element assembly. Either one can keep adding heat and cause a dishwasher overheating problem. Next, check the high-limit thermostat, make sure the thermostat is seated firmly against the tub in its support bracket, and then test the thermostat itself if needed. It is also worth checking your home hot water supply, since water hotter than about 120°F can make a Whirlpool dishwasher get too hot during normal operation. If your Whirlpool dishwasher is overheating, a multimeter can help you test the heating element, heating element assembly, high-limit thermostat, and thermostat for shorts or continuity issues before you replace anything. RepairClinic.com makes it easier to match the right fix to your machine. Enter your model number to find the exact Whirlpool dishwasher replacement part that fits your unit, whether you need a heating element, heating element assembly, high-limit thermostat, or thermostat.
01 - Whirlpool 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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02 - Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element Assembly
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.
Top Solution
03 - Whirlpool Dishwasher High Limit Thermostat
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.
Highly Likely
04 - Thermostat out of position
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.
Highly Likely
05 - Whirlpool 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.
Highly Likely
06 - Water supply temperature too hot
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.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher overheating?
Can a bad thermostat cause a Whirlpool dishwasher to overheat?
What if the thermostat is good, but my Whirlpool dishwasher still gets too hot?
Can water that is too hot from the house make my dishwasher overheat?
How do I find the right Whirlpool dishwasher heating element or thermostat replacement part?
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