If your Kelvinator dishwasher is overflowing, start with the most likely cause: a bad water inlet valve. When the valve does not shut off at the right time, the dishwasher overfills with water and can leave you dealing with a dishwasher water level too high or water collecting in the tub even when the machine is off. Next, check the main control board, since a shorted board can keep sending power to the water inlet valve during the cycle. A cracked lower wash arm assembly can also throw water toward the door and make a Kelvinator dishwasher overflowing problem look worse than it is. After that, make sure you are using the right type and amount of detergent, because oversudsing can cause a dishwasher overfills with water symptom or leaking that looks like overflow. Finally, inspect the float switch or safety float, which is supposed to stop the fill before the tub gets too full. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact Kelvinator water inlet valve, main control board, lower wash arm assembly, or float switch that fits your dishwasher.
01 - Kelvinator 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.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
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.
03 - Kelvinator 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.
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.
Common
05 - Kelvinator 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.
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.