Question about the cause of dishwasher leak
by
APG81
+6
I have a dishwasher that is leaking, and I traced the problem to the connection shown in the photo. It can be seen that the connector shell on the left side is no longer snug. Unfortunately, when I tighten it, it just won't stay and easily drops down (doesn't appear to be threaded, just not a quality connection). Anyway my question is- what are these two connections? I'd like to ID them so that I can see about getting a replacement. Not sure why there would be an electrical connection through the tub to an area with water unless this is some kind of thermostat.
8 answers
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OK, I figured out these are the connections to the heating element. I think the reason the shell nut wasn't getting tight is because the heating element inside the tub must not be seated all the way.
APG81
on Jan 18, 2016
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perhaps a plumber is needed to replace those parts
Michelle
on Jan 19, 2016
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Hi APG81. I'm in agreement. It also appears that the internal part, of said leak, is not seated properly inside of white shield. It is hanging much lower that the one on the right of it. You will need to access it by removing the protective cover and go from there. If you follow through with removing it, I'll bet your leak will reveal itself.
Hope Williams
on Jan 19, 2016
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I did verify the heating element inside the dishwasher is in fact fully seated, yet the nut on the left would not properly mate. After looking at it a bit more it appears the nut on the left is different than the one on the right, the one on the right is taller with 3 threads while the one on the left has just 2 threads. My guess is this washer was built using the wrong part on the left and that it probably never was properly secured. I'm surprised it didn't leak before but perhaps the heating element was accidentally bumped at some point just enough to loosen the water seal on the heating element. Anyway I've been able to get it to stop leaking by lightly tightening the nut on the left, however given the likelihood it's the wrong part I suspect a future leak is inevitable. Fortunately I see Sears Factory Direct sells the part for $4, so I'll order one from them to fix it for good. Regarding a hiring a Plumber, unfortunately that goes against the Handyman code, and so far I've never met a shower, toilet, disposal, dishwasher or sink that I haven't been able to, with a bit of persistence, fix. :o)
APG81
on Jan 19, 2016
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Don't even mention this to me, I have a 40 year old house and all at once everything seems to be going on the blink, don't need another one.
DORLIS
on Jan 19, 2016
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However, I will pin this, better to know what to do when it happens.
DORLIS
on Jan 19, 2016
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My husband says they're called Sharkbite Fittings, & you can go to Home Depot, etc. to replace them. I hope this helps.
Jeanean
on Jan 19, 2016
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I'd say take a picture and go to Lowe's or Home Depot and get someone to help you find the right supplies you need. The employees seem to know a lot about fixing things and have helped me in getting what I needed. And Dorlis I know what you mean as my houses is older and everything seems to be on its way out. Replacing door catches, dishwasher, washing machine, doors, sewer lines, air conditioning unit. windows, blinds, etc, etc. When will it stop. Even freezer went out but after a days rest I turned it back on and it started and has been working ever since...miracle #1 Now roof needs repair. Maybe I could write a song about this.
Sue Sanders
on Jan 20, 2016
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