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Say goodbye to dirty dishes! how to fix your whirlpool dishwasher’s upper rack wheels

Daniel founded Tender Home Assist in 2021 with a vision to create smart home technology that helps families live more comfortably. He has over 15 years of experience in product development and holds several patents in home automation. Prior to starting Tender, Daniel was VP of Engineering at Anthropic, where...

What To Know

  • If your Whirlpool dishwasher’s upper rack is not moving smoothly or is making strange noises, it could be a sign that the wheels need to be replaced.
  • Replacing the upper rack wheels is a relatively simple task that can be completed in under an hour with the right tools and instructions.
  • The wheels are designed specifically for Whirlpool dishwashers and using wheels from a different brand could result in poor performance or damage to the dishwasher.

A malfunctioning dishwasher can be a major inconvenience, especially when it comes to cleaning dirty dishes. If your Whirlpool dishwasher‘s upper rack is not moving smoothly or is making strange noises, it could be a sign that the wheels need to be replaced. Replacing the upper rack wheels is a relatively simple task that can be completed in under an hour with the right tools and instructions.

Tools and Materials Required

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • New upper rack wheels (compatible with your Whirlpool dishwasher model)
  • Dish soap
  • Sponge or cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First

Unplug your dishwasher from the power outlet and turn off the water supply. This will prevent any potential electrical or water hazards while you work.

2. Remove the Upper Rack

Open the dishwasher door and pull out the upper rack. Gently lift the rack up and out of the dishwasher.

3. Locate the Wheels

The upper rack wheels are located on the sides of the rack. There are typically two wheels on each side.

4. Remove the Old Wheels

Use the flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old wheels off the rack. Be careful not to damage the rack.

5. Clean the Wheel Sockets

Use the sponge or cloth with dish soap to clean the sockets where the wheels were located. This will remove any dirt or grime that could prevent the new wheels from fitting properly.

6. Install the New Wheels

Align the new wheels with the sockets and press them into place. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the wheels in place.

7. Reinstall the Upper Rack

Lift the upper rack back into the dishwasher and slide it into place. Make sure that the wheels are properly engaged in the tracks.

8. Test the Dishwasher

Plug the dishwasher back into the power outlet and turn on the water supply. Run a short cycle to ensure that the upper rack is moving smoothly and without any noise.

Troubleshooting

Q: Why is my upper rack not moving smoothly?
A: The wheels may be dirty or damaged. Follow the steps above to clean or replace the wheels.

Q: What type of wheels do I need for my Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: The type of wheels you need will depend on the specific model of your dishwasher. Check the owner’s manual or contact Whirlpool customer service for assistance.

Q: How often should I replace the upper rack wheels?
A: The frequency of wheel replacement will vary depending on usage. Generally, it is recommended to replace the wheels every few years or as needed.

Q: Can I use wheels from a different dishwasher brand?
A: No, it is not advisable to use wheels from a different dishwasher brand. The wheels are designed specifically for Whirlpool dishwashers and using wheels from a different brand could result in poor performance or damage to the dishwasher.

Q: What if the new wheels do not solve the problem?
A: If the new wheels do not solve the problem, there may be another issue with your dishwasher. Contact Whirlpool customer service for further assistance.

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Daniel Jones

Daniel founded Tender Home Assist in 2021 with a vision to create smart home technology that helps families live more comfortably. He has over 15 years of experience in product development and holds several patents in home automation. Prior to starting Tender, Daniel was VP of Engineering at Anthropic, where he led the team that developed AI-powered climate control systems. He has a passion for designing products that are accessible to everyone and make daily tasks effortless. In his free time, Daniel enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. He also volunteers with a local nonprofit that provides weatherization services to low-income homeowners. Daniel is dedicated to helping more families benefit from smart home tech through his work at Tender Home Assist.
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