The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Dishwasher overflowing are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
Top 4 Reasons Dishwasher Dispenser is Not Working?
Top 5 Reasons Dishwasher is Leaking?
Top 4 Reasons Dishwasher is Making Noise?
Top 5 Reasons Dishwasher is Not Cleaning?
Top 5 Reasons Dishwasher is Not Draining?
Top 4 Reasons Dishwasher is Not Drying Dishes?
Top 3 Reasons Dishwasher Won’t Fill with Water?
Top 5 Reasons Dishwasher Won’t Start?
How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
How to Avoid Dishwasher Back-fill - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Use A Tray Under Dishwasher - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Resistance Testing: Dishwasher Heating Element - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Wash Grease Filters in Dishwasher - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Open Your Dishwasher Door - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Load Your Dishwasher Properly - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Run Affresh Inside Your Dishwasher - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Dishwasher Lights Flashing? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Buttons Not Working? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Leaking From Motor Area? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Overflowing? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Door Won't Latch? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Runs For Hours? Dishwasher TroubleshootingThe water inlet valve is an electrically-controlled valve that opens to allow water to enter the dishwasher. Depending on the model, the valve stays open either for a set length of time or until the dishwasher has enough water. However, if the water inlet valve doesn’t shut off after the dishwasher has enough water, the dishwasher will overflow. If water drips into the dishwasher when the door is open, or if water collects at the bottom of the dishwasher while it is not use, you may need to replace the water inlet valve.
A dishwasher's main control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve during the drain cycle, the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher's cycle.
If the lower wash arm has a crack or split on the side it can cause water to splash out the bottom of the door, giving the impression that the dishwasher is overflowing. Inspect the wash arm assembly for any damage and replace if necessary.
Make sure to use the proper dishwasher detergent. Use the proper amount of detergent for your water hardness; too much soap in soft water can cause oversudsing and leaking.
A dishwasher's control board provides power to nearly every electrical component in the dishwasher. If the control board continues to send power to the water inlet valve the dishwasher could overflow. While this is not that common of a problem, you can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for incoming power during the dishwasher's cycle.
The float switch actuates in order to prevent the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective or stuck, it might not stop the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is defective, replace it.
A dishwasher pressure switch is the component that will send a signal to shut off the water inlet valve once an appropriate amount of water has entered the tank for a wash cycle. If the pressure switch is malfunctioning, it may fail to signal the inlet valve to close and cause the dishwasher to overflow. You can use a multimeter to test the pressure switch's terminals for appropriate changes in electrical continuity before and after blowing air into the attached pressure tube. If the switch has shorted or does not test appropriately, it should be replaced.
