Operational Issues

• If the KitchenAid dishwasher runs for a long time, check the water temperature. Turn on the hot water on your kitchen faucet, and place a thermometer under the water. If the water temperature is below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, increase the water temperature on the water heater. If the dishwasher doesn't start, verify that the door is completely closed. If the door won't close, push in the top and bottom racks and remove any items blocking the door. Clean the door gaskets if dirty or replace them if worn. Select a cycle and push "Start." If the dishwasher still won't start, check the circuit breaker and reset it if it has been tripped. Change out any blown fuses. Check the dishwasher's door switch. Open the door panel and replace the door switch (a component that includes four wires connected to a plastic housing) if the wire are burnt or broken.
  
  

Not Filling

• The dishwasher will not fill with water if the water supply valve is turned off or if the water supply is not connected to the dishwasher. Examine the water inlet hose and straighten if bent. Look at the float switch, which is on the front-bottom of the dishwasher. See whether it can freely move. If not, depress it to release it. If it still won't move, replace the component. Check the water inlet valve. If it won't turn on or if it's leaking, replace it.
  
  

Won't Drain

• Your KitchenAid dishwasher may still have water on the bottom of the tub if the cycle is not complete. If the cycle is complete, check the drainage hose for obstructions and kinks. Clean out any clogs or lime-scale buildup in both the hose and the air gap. Remove the knockout plug on the garbage disposal if your dishwasher is connected to the disposer. Open up the dishwasher housing and examine the motor, pump and belt. If any of these components are broken, replace them. The motor often gives off a burnt electrical smell.
  
  

Cleaning Issues

• A white residue on dishes indicates that you have hard water. Use extra detergent and a rinse aid to combat this problem. If your dishes have a cloudy look, increase the water temperature. Never, however, use water above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This can cause etching on dishes that you can't remove. If your dishes aren't drying, verify that you have selected a heated dry cycle. If not, open the dishwasher and look at the heating element on the bottom. If the heating element is broken or has burn spots, replace it.