How to Replace a KitchenAid Overfill Protection Float

The KitchenAid dishwasher uses a float mechanism to cut the water supply on and off during the wash cycle. The float rises with the water. When the water level reaches a preset level, the switch shuts off the water supply. A defective overfill protection float does not rise properly and causes the dishwasher not to fill. Replacing a KitchenAid overfill protection float does not require disassembly of the unit. Replacement floats are available at some retail outlets that sell KitchenAid dishwashers, as well as home improvement centers.

Step 1

Turn off the circuit breaker to the KitchenAid dishwasher. If your unit uses a power cord, unplug the power cord from the outlet in the adjacent cabinet.

Step 2

Open the KitchenAid dishwasher door, and pull out the bottom dish rack. Grab the float with your fingers, and tip the float toward the rear of the dishwasher. Lift the float up as you continue tipping toward the rear of the dishwasher until it disengages from the overfill assembly body.

Step 3

Clean the area around the overfill assembly tube with a cloth. Inspect the center of the overfill assembly tube, and remove any debris from the tube with a cotton swab. Debris such as food stuck inside the tube will cause the float not to rise properly

Step 4

Insert the stem of the new overfill protection float into the overfill assembly tube. Press the float down into the tube until you feel and hear it lock into the tube.

Step 5

Lift the float with your fingers until it stops. Let go of the float. The new float should fall without hesitation. Place the lower dish rack back into the dishwasher and close the door. Turn on the circuit breaker or plug the power cord into the outlet.