Admiral Dishwasher Water Valve Leaking When Off:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dishwasher's Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the water inlet valve using a triac or relay. When the dishwasher is off, the MCU should not be sending voltage to the valve. A faulty triac can leak voltage, causing the valve to open slightly and allow water to trickle in. Voltage paths involve the 120V AC supply, wiring harness, MCU, and the water inlet valve.

Symptoms:

The Admiral dishwasher tub fills with water even when the dishwasher is turned off. This indicates a leak originating from the water inlet valve. The water level rises slowly over time, potentially leading to overflow.

Possible Causes:

Faulty water inlet valve
Debris lodged in the valve seat
Defective MCU triac controlling the valve
Worn or damaged valve seal
Low water pressure causing valve to not fully close

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel. Verify 0V AC at the dishwasher power receptacle with a multimeter.
2

Locate the water inlet valve, typically at the lower front or side of the dishwasher.
3

Disconnect the water supply line to the valve. Place a bucket underneath to catch any residual water.
4

Disconnect the electrical connector to the water inlet valve. Use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the valve connector when the dishwasher is OFF (this indicates a potential MCU problem).
5

Remove the water inlet valve. Inspect for debris or mineral deposits.
6

If no debris is found, replace the water inlet valve with a new one. Ensure the new valve is properly sealed.
7

Reconnect the water supply line and electrical connector. Restore power at the breaker panel and test the dishwasher for leaks.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher before performing any repairs (Lock Out/Tag Out procedure). High voltage is present inside the dishwasher. Wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the dishwasher's filter and spray arms to prevent debris from entering the water inlet valve. Check water pressure and ensure it's within the manufacturer's recommended range (typically 20-120 PSI). Consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup.

Expert Tip:

Some Admiral dishwashers have a service mode that allows you to manually activate the water inlet valve. This can be helpful for diagnostics. Consult the service manual for your specific model for the service mode entry sequence. Often it involves pressing a sequence of buttons on the control panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

Disconnect the valve's electrical connector. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Measure the resistance across the valve's terminals. A reading of infinite resistance (open circuit) indicates a faulty coil. A reading of zero ohms (short circuit) also indicates a faulty valve. You are looking for a value between 500-1500 ohms typically.

•How do I access the MCU to inspect or replace it?

The MCU is usually located behind the control panel. Disconnect power to the dishwasher. Remove the screws holding the control panel in place. Carefully detach the ribbon cable connectors from the MCU. Visually inspect the MCU for burned components or water damage. Replacement involves ordering the correct part number and reversing the disassembly process.

•What is the proper water pressure for my Admiral dishwasher?

Consult the owner's manual for your specific model. Generally, the recommended water pressure is between 20 and 120 PSI. Low water pressure can prevent the valve from closing fully, and high water pressure can damage the valve.

Admiral Dishwasher Water Valve Leaking When Off: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the water inlet valve with a multimeter?

•How do I access the MCU to inspect or replace it?

•What is the proper water pressure for my Admiral dishwasher?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: