Demystifying Your Dishwasher Motor: The DIY'er Way

Well, hello keen DIY-ers! Ever had those moments when you wish your dishwasher could give you a little more information about just why the darn thing won’t work? You’re in luck! You've stumbled on a gem provided by an old repairman who's had his fair share of wrestlings with dishwasher motors. We’re about to dive motor-first into the fascinating world of dishwasher motors, and by the time we’re done, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the dishwasher whisperer.

What Drives Your Dishwasher (Literally)!

That heart-pounding, backbreaking, fight-to-the-death match with a dish-full sink after your dishwasher shreaked, growled or went silent right on your date night is courtesy of a mischievous little beast: the dishwasher motor. This ever-hardworking guy, stationed at the underside of your dishwasher, powers the pumping action that sprays water on your dishes- a crucial part of the cleaning process.

When all is well, the motor hums away happily, incognito. However, if it starts throwing tantrums, you'll certainly hear about it. But fear not, brave DIY'er, I’m here to help you decipher the cryptic messages your dishwasher motor is sending.

Signals From A Struggling Dishwasher Motor

The Dead Silence

"Hmm... it's awfully quiet," you think, as you squint suspiciously at your dishwasher. Bad news, my fellow DIY'er: no noise often means no function, and that suggests a potentially dead motor. You'll need to test the motor to confirm this.

Use a multimeter (your handyman's beat friend) to test the motor. Set your multimeter to the lowest setting for Ohms of resistance, usually marked with the Greek symbol (Ω). Next, using a guide or diagram for your specific model, probe the motor terminals for resistance. A reading of infinite resistance usually means a shorted motor, while no reading at all indicates an open motor. In either situation, the motor needs replacing.

The Growling Beast

When your dishwasher delivers a bone-rattling growl that can wake up the dead, it could mean that something is trapped in the impeller- the part of the motor responsible for creating the water flow. If you're brave of heart and handy with a screwdriver, a DIY'er like you might just tease out whatever foreign object is upsetting your appliance.

The Stuttering Hum

A subtle hum that seems to be starting and stopping could mean your motor is struggling to function, likely due to a faulty motor capacitor. Fortunately, this little cylindrical device is generally easily accessible and readily available at most appliance parts stores. With a few flexes of your DIY muscles, you can easily replace it yourself.

Showing Your Motor Some Love

Pay a little love to your dishwasher motor, and you'll enjoy a happy, functional appliance for many years. Cleanliness is next to goddessness (as the old saying goes), and your dishwasher motor is no exception. Keep a keen eye for debris or food particles that might sneak into the motor area and clean them out promptly.

Then, there is the wonder-worker named WD-40. A little application can go a long way in keeping the motor moving smoothly. Remember, a little lubrication now can save you a big motor problem later.

Your Motor's Lifeline

It’s important to know when it's time to give your motor a break and replace it with a new one. Even the best of motors have a lifespan, usually around 10 years. If you’ve been in this relationship for around a decade and the repair bills are mounting, it might be time to bid farewell.

Mustering Up DIY Courage

Curing your dishwasher woes may not be as challenging as you imagined. With an understanding of your dishwasher motor, a dash of DIY bravery, and a sprinkle of patience, you can save the day (and potentially a wallet full of repair bills).

So, the next time your dishwasher starts giving signs of a grumpy motor, don't fret. Lace up those DIY boots, grab your trusty multimeter, and show that motor who is the real boss! You’ve got the know-how now. Be the hero of your kitchen, and remember, even an old repairman like me started somewhere…