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KitchenAid Dishwasher overflowing

If your KitchenAid dishwasher is overflowing, start with the most likely cause: a bad water inlet valve that is not shutting off when the tub reaches the proper fill level. A KitchenAid dishwasher overfills with water when the valve keeps letting water in, and you may also notice water dripping into the tub when the machine is off. Next, check the main control board or control board, since a shorted board can keep sending power to the water inlet valve during the cycle. If the leak seems like a KitchenAid dishwasher leaking from door or spilling onto the floor, inspect the lower wash arm assembly for cracks that can spray water out the bottom and mimic a dishwasher overflowing problem. Too much detergent or the wrong detergent can also cause oversudsing and make it look like the dishwasher water level is too high. Finally, inspect the float switch, since a stuck or failed safety float switch may not stop the fill. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact KitchenAid water inlet valve, float switch, lower wash arm assembly, or control board for your specific dishwasher.

01 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve is an electrically-controlled valve that opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. Depending on the model, the valve stays open either for a set length of time or until the dishwasher has enough water. However, if the water inlet valve doesn’t shut off after the dishwasher has enough water, the dishwasher will overflow. If water drips into the dishwasher when the door is open, or if water collects at the bottom of the dishwasher while it is not use, you may need to replace the water inlet valve.
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02 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Main Control Board

A dishwasher's main control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve during the drain cycle, the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher's cycle.
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03 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Lower Wash Arm Assembly

If the lower wash arm has a crack or split on the side it can cause water to splash out the bottom of the door, giving the impression that the dishwasher is overflowing. Inspect the wash arm assembly for any damage and replace if necessary.
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04 - Wrong type or incorrect amount of detergent

Make sure to use the proper dishwasher detergent. Use the proper amount of detergent for your water hardness; too much soap in soft water can cause oversudsing and leaking.
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05 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Board

A dishwasher's control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher's cycle.
Common

06 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Float Switch

The float switch actuates in order to prevent the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective or stuck, it might not stop the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective, replace it.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher overflowing with water?
How can I tell if the KitchenAid dishwasher water inlet valve is bad?
Can too much soap make a KitchenAid dishwasher look like it is overflowing?
What does the float switch do on a KitchenAid dishwasher, and how do I check it?
How do I find the right overflow-related part for my KitchenAid dishwasher?

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