Kenmore Dishwasher Model 665 Troubleshooting (Easy Steps)

Have you ever had your Kenmore dishwasher model 665 suddenly stop working right when you needed it most? I have been there, and it is so frustrating. Luckily, most problems are easy to fix without calling a repairman. In this article, I will guide you through the most common issues and simple solutions that really work.

Checking Power and Control Settings

The first thing to look at is power. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a plug or breaker. Always make sure the dishwasher is plugged in all the way. If the power cord feels loose, push it back firmly. Also, check if the outlet is working by plugging in another small device.

If the outlet works fine, look at your breaker box. Dishwashers use a lot of power, so sometimes the breaker trips. Flip it back on if it is off. Once you do this, try to start the dishwasher again. You will be surprised how often this is the cause.

Next, check the control panel. If the lights are not turning on, the control panel might be locked. Many Kenmore dishwashers have a lock setting that people hit by mistake. Hold the lock button for a few seconds to turn it off. Then, press the start button again.

If the panel still does not light up, it may need a reset. You can reset most Kenmore 665 dishwashers by pressing the Heated Dry and Normal Wash buttons back to back. This clears small glitches. After that, wait a minute and then try running a cycle again.

• Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in
• Reset the breaker if it tripped
• Unlock the control panel if locked
• Try resetting the dishwasher with button combo

Fixing Water Not Filling

One of the most common problems is when the dishwasher will not fill with water. This usually points to a water supply problem. First, check if the water valve under the sink is open. If it is closed even a little, the dishwasher will not get enough water. Turn it fully on.

If the valve is open, the next part to check is the float switch. This little part sits inside the dishwasher at the bottom. When it gets stuck in the up position, the machine thinks it is already full. Gently move it up and down to make sure it can move freely. If it feels stuck, clean around it.

Sometimes, the inlet valve that controls water flow gets clogged. This valve is located at the bottom near the front of the dishwasher. If you feel comfortable, remove the kick plate and look at it. Mineral buildup or debris can block it. Cleaning or replacing this part often solves the problem.

If after all these checks it still does not fill, then the problem might be with the electronic control sending signals. That usually needs a technician, but most of the time, the first checks solve it.

• Open water valve under sink
• Check float switch for movement
• Clean or replace water inlet valve
• Call for service if still no fill

Solving Water Not Draining

When the cycle ends and you open the dishwasher only to see standing water, it is a big headache. But do not worry. This is usually an easy fix. The first place to look is the drain hose. This hose runs from the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal. Make sure it is not bent or kinked.

Next, check if the garbage disposal is new. Many times, installers forget to knock out the plug where the hose connects. If that plug is still in place, water cannot leave the dishwasher. Removing it usually fixes the problem in seconds.

Also, clean the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher. Food bits and grease often block it. Lift out the filter and rinse it under hot water. While you are at it, clean the drain basket too. This alone clears most drainage problems.

If water still does not drain, the drain pump may be clogged. A piece of broken glass or food can jam it. You can remove the bottom panel to look at the pump. Clean it carefully and check if the blades move. If it is broken, the pump may need replacement.

• Check drain hose for kinks
• Knock out plug if disposal is new
• Clean filter and drain basket
• Inspect pump for clogs or damage

Cleaning Spray Arms and Filters

If your dishes come out dirty, the problem often lies with blocked spray arms or dirty filters. Spray arms shoot water at your dishes, but food particles can clog the holes. Remove the spray arms and rinse them under warm water. Use a toothpick to clear out the holes.

The filters are another common trouble spot. They trap food bits before they reach the pump. But if you never clean them, they get blocked. Take them out and wash them with warm soapy water. Make sure no grease is left behind.

Sometimes, hard water builds up on these parts. Soaking spray arms and filters in vinegar helps break down the mineral deposits. Do not forget to clean the inside walls too, because grease builds up there over time.

After cleaning, put everything back and run a rinse cycle. You will likely see a big difference right away. Clean spray arms and filters also help your dishwasher run more quietly and last longer.

• Remove and rinse spray arms
• Use toothpick to clear spray holes
• Wash filters with warm soapy water
• Soak parts in vinegar for buildup

Checking Heating Problems

If your dishes are wet and not drying, the heating system may be failing. The heating element at the bottom heats water and also helps dry dishes. First, look for any visible damage like cracks or burns on the element. If it looks bad, it may need replacement.

Also, check if your water is hot enough at the sink. Dishwashers need water at least 120°F to clean well. If your water heater is set too low, your dishwasher cannot perform. Raise the temperature if needed.

Another part that fails is the high-limit thermostat. This safety device shuts off power if the machine overheats. But sometimes it breaks and cuts power even when it should not. Replacing this small part often solves heating issues.

Finally, the control board may fail to send power to the heater. This is harder to test without tools, so if the element and thermostat look fine but still no heat, a technician may be required.

• Inspect heating element for damage
• Check water heater setting at sink
• Test or replace high-limit thermostat
• Call service if board is faulty

Resetting and Regular Maintenance

Sometimes the dishwasher acts strange for no clear reason. Buttons may not respond or cycles may freeze. A simple reset often clears the problem. Press Heated Dry then Normal Wash back to back to reset the control board. Wait one minute before starting again.

Also, keep up with maintenance to avoid future issues. Clean the filters and spray arms once a month. Run a vinegar rinse every few months to clear hard water buildup. Always scrape food off dishes before loading, even if you do not pre-wash.

Check the door gasket too. If it is dirty or cracked, leaks can start. Clean it with warm water and mild soap. If it looks worn, replace it before it fails. A good seal keeps water inside where it belongs.

By staying on top of small tasks, your dishwasher will run smoother and last longer. Problems will be smaller and easier to fix. And you will save money on repairs.

• Reset dishwasher with button combo
• Clean filters and spray arms monthly
• Run vinegar rinse for hard water
• Check and replace gasket if worn

Final Thoughts

Troubleshooting a Kenmore dishwasher model 665 may sound scary, but it is usually simple. With some patience and easy checks, you can solve most problems yourself. From power to draining, cleaning, or heating, the fixes are often quick. By keeping up with small maintenance, your dishwasher will serve you for many years without trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for my Kenmore 665 dishwasher to make loud noises?

Some noise is normal because pumps and spray arms move water strongly. But grinding, squealing, or knocking sounds are not. These often mean something is stuck inside, like a piece of glass or food. Always stop the cycle, open carefully, and check inside. If the sound continues even when clean, a part like the motor or pump may be wearing out and could need service soon.

Can a Kenmore 665 dishwasher leak from the door?

Yes, it can. Most leaks from the door happen when the gasket seal is dirty, cracked, or loose. Water slips through the small gap and drips down. Cleaning the gasket with warm water and soap often helps. If the seal looks damaged, replacing it is the best solution. Also, check that dishes are loaded properly because large pans can block the spray arm and cause splashing leaks.

Do I need to replace the control board if my dishwasher will not start?

Not always. First, check the simple things like power, breaker, and the lock button. Sometimes the control board is fine, but the start button or wiring is faulty. Resetting the dishwasher may also solve the issue. Only after ruling out these easy fixes should you think about replacing the control board. Since it is costly, confirm the problem before buying a new one.

Is it hard to clean the spray arms in a Kenmore 665?

No, it is not hard at all. Spray arms can usually be removed by hand with a simple twist or pull. Once removed, rinse them under warm water and poke out clogs with a toothpick. If there is hard water buildup, soak them in vinegar for a while. Putting them back is just as easy, and it takes less than 10 minutes in most cases.

Can standing water harm my Kenmore dishwasher?

Yes, standing water is not good because it can cause odors, mold, or even rust inside. It also means the pump or hose is blocked. Fixing the drain problem quickly keeps the dishwasher safe. Cleaning the filter, basket, and hose usually solves it. If water sits for too long, it can also affect the motor. That is why it is best to act fast.

Do I need to reset my dishwasher after every problem?

Not every problem needs a reset, but it is often a good first try. Resetting clears glitches in the control board. It is safe, fast, and costs nothing. If the problem continues after a reset, then you know it may be a real part failure. Many owners use a reset as their first go-to fix because it works for small errors most of the time.

Is it safe to repair the water inlet valve myself?

It depends on your comfort with small repairs. The water inlet valve is near the bottom, and you will need to remove panels. If you feel handy, you can try cleaning or replacing it. Just be sure to turn off water and power first. If you are not comfortable, it is safer to call a technician. Incorrect handling could cause leaks or more problems later.

Can I make my Kenmore 665 dishwasher last longer?

Yes, you can. Regular cleaning and small checks go a long way. Clean the filters and spray arms often, run vinegar rinses, and check the gasket seal. Also, always scrape off food before loading dishes. These small habits keep parts from wearing down and reduce clogs. With care, your Kenmore 665 can last many more years without needing major repairs.