Checking the dishwasher circulation pump

Checking the dishwasher circulation pump The “heart” of the dishwasher is the circulation pump. With its help, water is directed to the sprinklers and enters the main chamber. Even if the pump is slightly damaged, the machine does not function correctly.

You can check the circulation pump of the dishwasher yourself. Let's figure out how this breakdown manifests itself and where the element is located. We'll tell you how to replace or repair your pump.

Detection of breakdown and inspection of the pump

The quality of all programs stored in the dishwasher’s memory depends on the condition of the circulation pump. Due to it, a constant “cycle” of water in the system is ensured. How does the element function?

The pump releases clean water into the nozzles.
The liquid is sprayed under pressure throughout the working chamber, washing away grease and dirt from the dishes.
The water flows downwards where it is filtered.
The pump again supplies purified water to the nozzles.

If the water in the dishwasher does not circulate, and the filter elements and nozzles are not clogged, then it is time to change the circulation pump.

Signs indicating a malfunction of the circulation pump: the circulation pump supplies water to the sprinklers

the error code corresponding to the breakdown shown on the display;
the machine draws water inside, but then nothing happens - the washing does not start;
the device does not wash dishes due to low water pressure;
loud noise and crackling noise during equipment operation;
activation of the leakage protection system.

To inspect the pump that circulates water in the system, you will need to partially disassemble the dishwasher. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

turn off the power to the dishwasher;
disconnect the device from the water supply and sewerage;
move the dishwasher to a place where it will be convenient to work with it;
place the machine on the floor;
deal with the latches holding the bottom of the dishwasher;
move the car tray to the side;
disconnect and remove the inlet pipe;
find the pump, disconnect the wiring from it, and, having dealt with the latches, remove the pump from the housing.

You can “reanimate” your dishwasher yourself. It is more expedient and easier to replace a faulty circulation pump with a new one. However, if you have the time and desire to tinker, the element can actually be repaired. We'll tell you how craftsmen repair such a part.

Is it possible to repair the circulation pump?

When the dishwasher draws water, but then stops and makes no more sounds, then in 98% of cases we can talk about the failure of the circulation pump. Of course, the filters should be cleaned first, but if this does not help, you will have to check the pump.

Probable causes of circulation pump failure:

strong power surge in the network;
impeller damage or jamming;
wear of one or a pair of graphite bushings;
water entering the pump winding;
combustion of the heating element (typical only for new generation circulation pumps with a built-in heating element).

If the cause of the part failure is a power surge or winding short circuit, then the element cannot be repaired. The pump will have to be replaced. When the problem is a damaged impeller or worn bushings, the circulation pump can be repaired.

Typically, dishwasher circulation pumps stop functioning due to wear of the graphite bushings. They are checked after dismantling the pump. If significant play is noticeable, it means that the components will have to be replaced.We'll tell you how to do this.

Disassemble the pump by unscrewing the nozzle on the rotor.
Remove the impeller from the shaft (problems may arise here, since the impeller often cracks during dismantling and must also be replaced).
The bushings and impeller can be made on a 3D printer from nylon or the components can be ordered online.
Install new bushings in place of the old ones.
Reassemble the pump in reverse order.

When ordering components online, do not forget to indicate the model and serial number of your dishwasher.

The cost of a new pump will depend on the dishwasher model. You can purchase the assembled part for a price starting from $37. Purchasing individual spare parts will cost less, for example, an impeller costs from $3, a graphite bushing from $2.