Frigidaire Dishwasher Spray Arm Diverter Motor Failure:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the diverter motor based on the selected wash cycle. The MCU sends a 120V AC signal to the diverter motor through a relay. The diverter motor then rotates a valve to direct water flow to different spray arms. A failed motor, faulty wiring, or a malfunctioning relay on the MCU can all disrupt this process.

Symptoms:

US homeowner observations include dishes not getting properly cleaned, specifically noticing that items on one rack are clean while items on another rack remain dirty. The dishwasher may also produce unusual noises, like humming or grinding, during the wash cycle. Some users might observe the wash cycle taking an unusually long time to complete. In some cases, there might be little to no water pressure coming from specific spray arms.

Possible Causes:

Faulty diverter motor windings.
Obstruction preventing the diverter valve from moving.
Failed relay on the main control board.
Damaged wiring harness or loose connections to the diverter motor.
Low water pressure to the dishwasher.
Clogged filter preventing proper water flow to the diverter.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel. Verify 120V AC is off at the dishwasher junction box using a multimeter.
2

Access the diverter motor assembly, usually located at the bottom of the wash tub. This may involve removing the lower spray arm and any associated filters.
3

Disconnect the wiring harness from the diverter motor. Use a multimeter to check the motor windings for continuity. An open circuit indicates a failed motor.
4

Check the diverter valve for any obstructions or debris that might be preventing it from moving freely. Clean if necessary.
5

If the motor windings test good, use a multimeter to test the voltage supply to the diverter motor during operation. You should see approximately 120V AC when the diverter motor is supposed to be activated. Lack of voltage indicates a control board issue.
6

Replace the diverter motor if it's faulty, ensuring you order the correct replacement part for your Frigidaire dishwasher model.
7

Reassemble the dishwasher, reconnect the power, and test the operation of the spray arms.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed. High voltage is present in the dishwasher; exercise caution.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the dishwasher filter to prevent debris from entering the diverter valve. Use a dishwasher cleaner monthly to prevent mineral buildup. Ensure proper water pressure to the dishwasher.

Expert Tip:

Many Frigidaire dishwashers have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for your specific model to access it. This mode can often run a diverter motor test and provide error codes that pinpoint the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Frigidaire dishwasher?

The procedure varies by model. Consult the service manual. Typically, it involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel within a short timeframe (e.g., High Temp, Air Dry, High Temp, Air Dry).

•What is the correct replacement part number for my Frigidaire dishwasher diverter motor?

Locate the model number on the dishwasher’s frame. Usually inside the door. Then search online appliance parts websites using that model number to find the correct diverter motor.

•What voltage should I expect to see at the diverter motor connector when it's supposed to be operating?

You should expect to see approximately 120V AC at the connector when the diverter motor is energized during a wash cycle.

Frigidaire Dishwasher Spray Arm Diverter Motor Failure: Symptoms and Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Frigidaire dishwasher?

•What is the correct replacement part number for my Frigidaire dishwasher diverter motor?

•What voltage should I expect to see at the diverter motor connector when it's supposed to be operating?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: