How to Replace Commercial Dishwasher Heating Element
How to Replace Commercial Dishwasher Heating Element
Posted:January 30, 2025
The dishwasher heating element is important to a dishwasher’s performance. Upon the button press for a wash cycle, the hot water is heated by it. If the dishwasher heating element works fine, then it also helps the detergent dissolve better and sanitize dishes at high temperatures.
A common issue is a dishwasher heating element not working. It can cause the wash to clean inadequately and run longer causing the appliance to be inefficient overall. In such cases, timely intervention is required and dishwasher heating element replacement needs are to be understood. Keeping the dishwasher heating element in good working order not only helps your dishwasher run better but also helps your appliance last longer.
Commercial Dishwasher Heating Elements & How They Work
The heating elements in a commercial dishwasher are a main part of that appliance's operation, and that includes sanitizing the dishes and keeping other conditions ideal.
Role of the heating element
A commercial dishwasher’s heating element heats water to the required temperatures (140°F to 180 °F) for cleaning and sanitizing.
Reduces wash time and improves cleaning efficiency by heating water quickly and keeping necessary temperatures during rinsing to meet health regulations.
Types of heating elements:
Commercial dishwashers use a range of heating elements, each with a different design and application
Immersion heating elements: Quick heating in water. Made from copper or stainless steel, commonly.
Circulation heating elements: They heat water as it circulates in the pump, and are located in the pump, improving energy efficiency.
Tank-type heating elements: For high capacity needs, found in larger models, heating of water in a tank before entering the wash chamber.
Booster heaters: Further increases in rinse water temperature for sanitization, especially in high-volume situations.
Electric vs. gas heating elements: Almost all are electric, but larger dishwashers may use gas for efficient heating.
Signs of a Faulty Commercial Dishwasher Heating Element
How to Replace Heating Element in a Dishwasher
When the dishwasher heating element is not working, replacing a dishwasher heating element is necessary because your appliance won’t be able to properly heat water to clean. Follow these steps for a successful dishwasher heating element replacement:
Disconnect power and water supply: Disconnect the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker and turn off the water supply before beginning any repairs to keep yourself safe during a changing dishwasher heating element.
Remove the lower dish rack: First, take out the lower dish rack from the dishwasher so you would be able to get to the bottom tub and there is a heating element to the bottom.
Remove the old heating element: Identify the dishwasher heating element. Usually, it is held in place by nuts or screws at either end. Behind, these fasteners will be secured with a socket wrench or screwdriver. Remove any electrical connectors from the element and carefully mark their positions ahead of the new installation.
Install the new heating element: Thereafter place your new dishwasher heating element in place. Securely reconnect the electrical connectors and reattach the nuts or screws that hold it in place. Make sure you tighten everything, but not too tight, so you don’t damage the components.
Reassemble and test: After you finish replacing the dishwasher heating element place the bottom rack in the dishwasher, turn the water on, and restore power to the circuit breaker. So run a short cycle and test the dishwasher to ensure there is no issue with the new heating element and you don't have problems with the dishwasher heating element not working again.
Changing the dishwasher heating element is possible but it can be somewhat difficult and if you get into any difficulties you may be advised to read the user manual or call in the professionals.
Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement Cost
when you are replacing a dishwasher heating element, there is no specified fixed cost, for example, the fixed cost varies depending on elements such as the part, labor, and dishwasher model.
Cost of the heating element: Depending on the brand and model, a replacement heating element will cost anywhere from $30 to $100. To ensure that your dishwasher performs optimally, it’s important to buy a compatible part.
Labor costs: The labor cost is going to come in at between $75 and $150 depending on the professional hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
Maintenance Tips for Commercial Dishwasher Heating Element
A commercial dishwasher’s heating element is crucial to its efficient operation and increased lifespan of the dishwasher.
Regular inspection: Check the heating element for indications of wear, corrosion, or mineral build-up often and take care of the problem as soon as possible.
Descaling: Descaling solutions regularly, following the manufacturer’s guidelines, will remove mineral buildup and help prevent scale accumulation.
Monitor water quality: If your water supply is hard, hard water will continue to deposit minerals in the water heater and eventually the mineral accumulation will break the heating element, so consider installing a water softener.
Optimize loading practices: Don't overstuff your dishwasher to promote the right water circulation and efficient heating.
Replacing a faulty dishwasher heating element is essential to the proper operation of a dishwasher. Not only does a malfunctioning heating element cause poor cleaning but also causes longer cycle times and other stresses to the dishwasher components. Quickly dealing with the issues regarding the heating element, will restore the dishwasher performance, improve its efficiency as well as prolong its working life. PartsFe UK offers an extensive selection of commercial dishwasher parts, including impellers, pumps, seals, rinse aid dispensers, timers, wash arms, and water valves from leading manufacturers.
FAQs
What safety precautions should be taken before changing a dishwasher heating element?
Before changing a dishwasher heating element, ensure the dishwasher is unplugged from the power source to prevent electrical shock. Also, turn off the water supply to avoid leaks or flooding. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and hot components.
What to do if your dishwasher heating element is still not working?
Check for power issues, inspect the heating element for damage, test the thermostat, and consider replacing faulty components.
