Dishwasher Timer Repair

In modern times, there are a number of appliances which assist in doing many household chores. The dishwasher is one such appliance which washes soiled dishes squeaky clean. The working of this commodity is controlled with the help of a timer which regulates the commands and operations of the system. At times the dishwasher timer may stick and fail to indicate the stipulated time required to perform its functions. There are also other problems of the dishwasher which may also need to be addressed, lest they render the dishwasher to become useless. Since the timer is a complicated system, you need to be very careful while inspecting it for any issue. If you seek professional help to repair the dysfunctional dishwasher timer, then you may have to pay approximately $300 for the purpose. However, you can also go about the task of repairing the dishwasher timer on your own, with some basic electrician skills.

Dishwasher Timer Repair Instructions

Troubleshooting dishwasher timer problems will help determine the exact cause as to why the timer is malfunctioning. Many times it is the timer motor that may malfunction instead of the entire assembly. So you need to conduct the test regarding the operational status of the dishwasher timer. However, before you open the dishwasher component, unplug the main switch and disconnect the wires as a safety measure. Once the dishwasher is off the electrical supply, you can go ahead with the task of replacing the dishwasher timer.

• Dismantle the door of the dishwasher and locate the panel where the timer motor has been fixed. For directions you can refer to the instruction manual or user's guide provided with the dishwasher. The timer assembly is usually located at the top of the door of the appliance in the control panel. In some models, it may be found at the bottom, behind the lower kickplate in the unit.
• After locating the timer motor, use a VOM (volt ohm meter) to check the working of the timer. If the needle on the meter rests on zero, then it means that the motor is operational and does not need replacement. But if it is otherwise, i.e. the reading is above zero, then the defective piece should be discarded and a new one in its place is required.
• Go to your nearest appliance store and purchase the new timer motor. Using a screwdriver, remove the screws attaching the timer to the main unit. Keep the screws in a safe place so that you don't have to hunt for them once the task of has been completed. The motor will be attached to the timer with wires. So in order to free the defective motor, unplug the wires and lift the motor off the unit.
• You will notice a set of wires holding the motor to the main unit with the help of wire connectors. To unplug and separate the wires, get hold of loose nose pliers. Never tug at the wires as this action can hamper the connection between the clip of the dishwasher and the wire. Place the new motor in the panel and reconnect the lead wires of the timer and motor. To secure the wires, twist the connectors to each other in a clockwise direction. Set the configuration of the timer to zero. Replace the control panel back in its place and tighten the screws in the allotted sockets.
• Once all the knobs and other components are fixed in their places, connect the wires and restore the power supply to the appliance. Set the timer at five minutes and run the dishwasher to see if the motor is working properly. In case of some problem, contact the manufacturer or a professional to address the exact problem and find a solution to it.

Though you can test the working condition of this device yourself, contact a professional repairman in case you are unable to do it and need assistance.