Frigidaire Luxury-Quiet Dishwasher Smelling Like... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Frigidaire Luxury-Quiet dishwasher utilizes a MCU (Microcontroller Unit) on the main control board to manage cycles, motor speeds, and heating element activation. The MCU receives feedback from sensors like the thermistor and pressure sensor to adjust parameters. Voltage is supplied to the motor and heating element via relays controlled by the MCU. Overcurrent or thermal issues can damage the insulation of components like the motor, heating element, or wiring.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a strong asphalt-like smell emanating from the Frigidaire Luxury-Quiet dishwasher during or after operation.

Possible Causes:

Overheated motor windings causing the insulation to break down
Failed heating element burning nearby insulation
Short circuit within the control board leading to thermal runaway
Deteriorating sound dampening material (asphalt-based in some models)
Blocked drain pump causing excessive motor strain and heat
Wire harness insulation damaged by rodent activity near the motor

Solution:

1

Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply by turning off the breaker in the breaker panel.
2

Remove the lower access panel using a 1/4-inch nut driver to inspect the motor and surrounding insulation.
3

Check the motor windings for signs of burning or melting. Use an ohmmeter to test the motor windings for shorts to ground. Normal resistance should be several ohms.
4

Inspect the heating element for signs of damage or corrosion. Test the element's continuity with an ohmmeter. A typical heating element should measure between 15 and 25 ohms.
5

Examine the control board for any signs of burned components or discoloration. If found, replace the control board.
6

Check the drain pump for obstructions. Clean or replace the drain pump as needed.
7

Check all wiring harnesses for rodent damage, paying close attention to the wires near the motor. Repair or replace damaged wiring harnesses. Verify all connections are secure. Ensure proper ground to chassis.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher before performing any repairs. Use proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to ensure the circuit breaker remains off during the repair. High voltage is present within the dishwasher; exercise caution.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the dishwasher's filter and sump area to prevent drain pump blockages. Inspect the lower access panel area annually for signs of rodent activity. Run a dishwasher cleaner cycle monthly to remove buildup and maintain component health.

Expert Tip:

Some Frigidaire dishwashers have a service mode. To enter, press and hold the Start/Cancel button for 5 seconds, then press the Up/Down arrow keys in sequence of Up, Down, Up. This can show error codes and allow for component testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance range for the heating element in this model?

The heating element in the Frigidaire Luxury-Quiet dishwasher should typically measure between 15 and 25 ohms. An open circuit indicates a failed element.

•How do I check for rodent damage effectively in the wiring harness?

Carefully inspect the wiring harness, especially near the floor, for any signs of gnawing or exposed wires. Use a flashlight to thoroughly examine hidden areas. Rodent droppings are also a telltale sign.

•If the motor windings test okay, what else could cause the asphalt smell?

If the motor windings are good, consider the sound dampening material degrading and releasing odors when heated. Also, check for any foreign objects that may have fallen onto the heating element and are burning.

Frigidaire Luxury-Quiet Dishwasher Smelling Like Asphalt: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance range for the heating element in this model?

•How do I check for rodent damage effectively in the wiring harness?

•If the motor windings test okay, what else could cause the asphalt smell?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: