KitchenAid Dishwasher Float Switch: How to Fix and Understand It

If your KitchenAid dishwasher is not draining or overfilling, the float switch might be the problem. I’ve faced this myself when my dishwasher kept flooding the kitchen floor. After learning how the float switch works and fixing it, my dishwasher worked perfectly again. In this article, you will get clear, simple steps to understand, find, and fix the KitchenAid dishwasher float switch so your machine works smoothly again.

What Is the Float Switch and Why It Matters

The float switch is a small part inside your dishwasher that helps control the water level. When water fills up, the float rises, and the switch tells the dishwasher to stop adding water.

This stops flooding and keeps the dishwasher safe. If the float switch breaks or gets stuck, water may keep filling and flood your kitchen, or the dishwasher may not fill enough to clean dishes well.

The float switch is usually a small plastic piece shaped like a dome or cylinder. It moves up and down with the water inside the dishwasher tub. Inside the float is a small magnetic switch or sensor that tells the dishwasher control board if it’s safe to add more water or not.

Many dishwasher problems come from a bad float switch. It might get stuck because of dirt, soap scum, or hard water deposits. Sometimes the switch itself fails and needs to be replaced.

To check if the float switch is the problem, you can gently lift the float when the dishwasher is off. If you hear a clicking sound, the switch is working. If not, the switch or float may be broken. Fixing or cleaning this part will often stop leaks, flooding, or poor washing.

• The float switch controls dishwasher water level
• It stops water from flooding by sending signals
• It can get stuck or break from dirt or damage
• A broken float switch causes flooding or no water
• Lifting the float should make a clicking sound if working
• Cleaning or replacing the float switch fixes common problems

How to Find the Float Switch Inside Your KitchenAid Dishwasher

Finding the float switch is easy if you know where to look. It is inside the dishwasher at the bottom, near the front or side. You may need to open the dishwasher door and remove the bottom rack to see clearly.

Look for a small plastic dome or cylinder that moves up and down when touched. The float is often near a small hole or a clear spot on the dishwasher floor. It can be white, black, or clear plastic.

If you are not sure, check your dishwasher’s manual or find a picture online by searching “KitchenAid dishwasher float switch location.” Knowing exactly where it is helps avoid breaking anything else when you try to clean or fix it.

Once you find the float, check if it moves freely. It should go up and down without sticking. If it’s stuck, dirt or soap scum may be holding it in place. You can clean around it with a damp cloth or a small brush. Be gentle so you don’t break the plastic parts.

If you want to test the switch, you might need to remove the lower access panel on the dishwasher. This can be done with a screwdriver. The float switch wires connect here, and you can test them with a multimeter to see if the switch is working.

• The float switch is near the dishwasher bottom, front or side
• Remove bottom rack for easy access
• Look for a plastic dome or cylinder
• It should move up and down easily
• Clean dirt or soap scum if stuck
• Use the manual or online images to help find it
• Test with a multimeter by removing the lower panel if needed

Cleaning the Float Switch to Fix Common Problems

Dirt, food particles, and soap scum can block the float switch and stop it from working properly. Cleaning the float switch often solves problems like dishwasher flooding or not filling with enough water.

First, unplug the dishwasher or turn off power from the breaker to be safe. Then, remove the lower rack and find the float switch. Lift the float and see if it moves freely. If stuck, gently clean around it with a soft cloth or small brush dipped in warm water mixed with a little vinegar or mild soap.

Avoid using strong chemicals or sharp tools because they can break the float or damage the plastic housing. Clean inside the small hole or the space where the float moves carefully.

If the float comes off easily, remove it and soak in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes to remove buildup. After soaking, rinse well and dry before putting it back.

Once cleaned, test the float by moving it up and down. It should move freely and click when lifted. Put everything back, turn the power on, and run a short wash cycle to check if the problem is fixed.

• Always unplug dishwasher before cleaning
• Remove the lower rack to access float switch
• Use warm water and mild soap or vinegar to clean
• Avoid harsh chemicals or sharp tools
• Soak removable float in soapy water if needed
• Test float movement and clicking sound after cleaning
• Run dishwasher test cycle to check results

How to Test the Float Switch With Simple Tools

If cleaning does not fix the problem, testing the float switch with a multimeter helps find if the switch is broken or not. A multimeter measures electrical resistance or continuity, showing if the switch works when the float moves.

First, turn off power to the dishwasher. Remove the lower access panel to reach the float switch wires. Find the float switch — it usually has two wires connected.

Set your multimeter to the continuity test mode (or the lowest ohms setting). Disconnect the wires from the float switch gently. Place the multimeter probes on the switch terminals.

Next, lift the float by hand. If the float switch works, the multimeter will beep or show zero resistance when the float is up, meaning the switch closes the circuit. When the float is down, the multimeter shows no beep or infinite resistance, meaning the circuit is open.

If there is no change when moving the float, or the reading stays the same, the switch is broken and needs replacement.

Testing the switch helps you avoid buying parts you don’t need. If the switch is good, the problem may be in the control board or wiring, and you might need professional help.

• Turn off dishwasher power before testing
• Remove lower access panel to find wires
• Use a multimeter set to continuity or ohms
• Disconnect float switch wires carefully
• Place probes on switch terminals
• Lift float to check multimeter reading change
• No change means switch is broken
• Test helps confirm if switch needs replacement

How to Replace the Float Switch on Your KitchenAid Dishwasher

If your float switch is broken or does not work after cleaning and testing, replacing it is the best solution. You don’t need to be an expert, but some tools and care are needed.

First, unplug the dishwasher or turn off power. Remove the lower access panel with a screwdriver. Find the float switch and disconnect the wires carefully, noting where each wire goes to connect the new switch correctly.

Next, remove the float switch mounting screws or clips. Some models may have the float attached separately; if so, remove that too.

Buy the correct replacement float switch by checking your dishwasher model number or looking online for “KitchenAid dishwasher float switch replacement.” Using the wrong part may not work.

Install the new float switch by putting it in place and securing screws or clips. Reconnect the wires exactly as before. Put the lower panel back and restore power.

Run the dishwasher through a test cycle. The float should move freely and control water properly now. Your dishwasher will fill with water without flooding or stopping too early.

• Always turn off power before replacing parts
• Remove lower access panel for float switch access
• Disconnect wires carefully and remember wire positions
• Remove mounting screws or clips holding switch
• Buy the correct replacement part for your model
• Install new switch and reconnect wires
• Test dishwasher after replacement for proper function

Preventing Float Switch Problems and Keeping Your Dishwasher Healthy

Keeping your KitchenAid dishwasher float switch clean and working well helps avoid future problems. Regular maintenance can save money and prevent frustrating leaks or poor washing.

Run a cleaning cycle once a month with dishwasher cleaner to remove soap scum and hard water deposits inside. This helps the float move freely.

Avoid overloading the dishwasher, and rinse very dirty dishes before loading. Food particles can clog the float area.

Check the float switch area every few months for dirt or blockages. Clean gently if needed.

If you live in an area with hard water, consider using a water softener or vinegar rinse to reduce mineral buildup.

Finally, if your dishwasher acts strangely, check the float switch first before calling for repair. Early care keeps the dishwasher working for many years.

• Run monthly dishwasher cleaning cycles
• Avoid overloading and rinse dishes before loading
• Check float switch area for dirt regularly
• Use water softener or vinegar rinse if hard water is a problem
• Inspect float switch first if dishwasher has issues
• Regular care extends dishwasher life and performance

Final Thoughts

The KitchenAid dishwasher float switch is a small but very important part. It keeps your dishwasher from flooding and controls the water level to clean dishes well. When it gets stuck or broken, it causes big problems, but with simple cleaning, testing, or replacing, you can fix it easily. Regular care helps avoid trouble and keeps your dishwasher working for a long time. Understanding and fixing the float switch yourself saves time and money while giving peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for the float switch to make a clicking sound?

Yes, it is normal to hear a soft clicking or snapping sound when you lift the float switch. This sound comes from the internal switch opening or closing the electrical circuit. The click means the float switch is working correctly and sending signals to the dishwasher control board. If you don’t hear a click when moving the float, the switch may be stuck or broken, and the dishwasher might not control water properly.

Can I clean the float switch myself safely?

Absolutely! Cleaning the float switch is a simple and safe task. Always turn off the power to the dishwasher before cleaning to avoid any electric shock. Use warm water, mild soap, or vinegar with a soft cloth or brush to clean dirt and soap buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals or sharp tools that can damage the float. This small maintenance helps prevent many dishwasher problems and keeps your machine working well.

Do I need special tools to replace the float switch?

No, you do not need many special tools to replace the float switch. Usually, a screwdriver is enough to remove the access panel and the old switch. However, having a multimeter to test the switch before replacing it is very helpful. This tool is affordable and helps you avoid unnecessary part purchases. Replacement float switches for KitchenAid dishwashers are widely available online or in appliance stores.

Is it common for the float switch to cause dishwasher flooding?

Yes, a faulty or stuck float switch is one of the common causes of dishwasher flooding. When the switch does not tell the dishwasher to stop filling water, the machine can overflow and leak onto your kitchen floor. Cleaning or replacing the float switch usually fixes this problem quickly. Always check the float switch first if your dishwasher is leaking water.

Can a stuck float switch cause the dishwasher not to fill with water?

Yes, if the float switch is stuck in the “up” position, the dishwasher will think the water level is already high and stop filling water. This means your dishes won’t get cleaned properly because the dishwasher won’t have enough water. Cleaning or fixing the float switch will let it move freely and allow the dishwasher to fill water as needed.

Do I have to call a professional to fix the float switch?

Not always. Many people can fix or clean the float switch themselves with simple tools and clear instructions. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical parts or if testing shows other issues, calling a professional is a good idea. A professional can safely fix or replace the switch and check other dishwasher parts if needed.

Is the float switch the same for all KitchenAid dishwasher models?

No, float switches can vary slightly between KitchenAid models. It is important to check your dishwasher model number before buying a replacement float switch. Using the wrong part may not fit correctly or work well. The manual or KitchenAid website can help you find the correct float switch for your specific model.

Can ignoring float switch problems cause more damage?

Yes, ignoring problems with the float switch can cause bigger issues. Overflowing water can damage your kitchen floor and cabinets. Also, poor water control may damage the dishwasher’s motor or electrical parts. Fixing float switch problems early prevents costly repairs and keeps your dishwasher running smoothly.