Admiral Dishwasher Heating Element Melted Bottom Rack:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) in the Admiral dishwasher controls the heating element through a relay. When the MCU determines that heating is required, it energizes the relay, sending 120V AC to the heating element. The element heats the water for washing and drying. Thermostats and water level sensors act as safety devices to prevent overheating. A failure in these components or the MCU itself can lead to uncontrolled heating.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a melted or deformed lower dishwasher rack, accompanied by a burning smell during operation. The dishwasher may also not be cleaning dishes properly or at all. Water may not be heating, or the dishwasher might shut down mid-cycle.

Possible Causes:

Heating element failure (short to ground).
Thermostat malfunction (stuck closed).
Water level sensor failure (low water).
Control board malfunction (relay failure).
Excessive mineral buildup on the heating element.

Solution:

1

Turn OFF the breaker to the dishwasher at the breaker panel.
2

Disconnect power to the dishwasher.
3

Remove the lower dishwasher rack and inspect the heating element for visible damage (bulging, cracks, or melting).
4

Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element.
5

Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the heating element. A typical heating element should read between 15-30 ohms. If the reading is significantly lower or reads 0 ohms, the element is shorted and needs replacement.
6

Check the thermostat for continuity. With the thermostat at room temperature, it should be closed (continuity). If open, replace the thermostat.
7

Replace the heating element with a new one, ensuring it is the correct part for your Admiral dishwasher model. Connect the wires securely.
8

Restore power and test the dishwasher. Monitor the heating cycle to ensure proper operation and prevent further damage.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher before performing any repairs. Use Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental re-energizing of the circuit. The heating element operates at 120V AC, which is a hazardous voltage. Exercise caution when working with electrical components.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the dishwasher to remove food debris and mineral buildup. Use a dishwasher cleaner every month to help prevent scale formation on the heating element. Ensure the dishwasher is properly filled with water before each cycle.

Expert Tip:

Some Admiral dishwashers have a service mode that allows you to manually activate the heating element for testing purposes. Consult the service manual for your specific model to find the service mode activation sequence. This can help isolate the problem to the heating element circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the proper ohm reading for my specific Admiral dishwasher heating element?

Refer to the service manual for your exact model. The typical range is 15-30 ohms, but variations exist.

•How do I access the control board to check the heating element relay?

The control board is usually located behind the kick panel at the bottom front of the dishwasher. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the panel. Be extremely careful when accessing the control board after disconnecting power.

•What type of dishwasher cleaner is best for preventing mineral buildup?

Use a dishwasher cleaner specifically designed to remove lime scale and mineral deposits. Affresh and Glisten are two reputable brands. Follow the instructions on the cleaner's packaging.

Admiral Dishwasher Heating Element Melted Bottom Rack: Repair Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the proper ohm reading for my specific Admiral dishwasher heating element?

•How do I access the control board to check the heating element relay?

•What type of dishwasher cleaner is best for preventing mineral buildup?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: