Dishwasher Leak

[Notepad1800]

I have a Maytag DWU dishwasher (don't have the model # with me) which has developed a leak in the door. Not substantial, but maybe a half cup of water will drip onto the top of the access panel during the wash cycle.

I opened the plastic panel covering the inside of the door and noticed that there was a sticky detergent-like residue that appeared to be leaking down the inside of the door from the rinse aid dispenser. I never use the rinse aid dispenser, have never even opened it until now, although previous owners of the house or our visitors may have dumped detergent in there.

I don't see any obvious way that detergent could be getting in there, however -- the rinse aid dispenser is not below the detergent dispenser, and of course whatever is put in the rinse aid dispenser isn't supposed to go inside the door.

Still, this leads me to think there is some kind of leak through the rinse aid dispenser during the wash cycle. Seals look OK, the tub isn't filling too much, the dishwasher is level, there don't appear to be any breaks in the spray arms.

I can't see any signs of a gasket or seal being missing -- is there supposed to be one?

Since I never use rinse aid, is there a way I can block up the dispenser for good?

[Peter H]

I had the same problem with a machine. It wasn't a Maytag, but I believe that it was made by the same manufacturer.

If you have a little boot that flips over the soap dispenser to hold the lid shut check the rubber gasket surrounding it... my guess is that it's shot.

The whole soap dispensing unit is sold as a single part and can be replaced.

Peter H

[Patrick Parrish]

I wholeheartedly agree -- definitely check out the detergent door latch gasket. Very common failure on Maytag dishwashers, can be purchased separately VERY cheap, easy to replace.

[jeff]

Hi,

Maytag dishwasher leak - On the plastic liner Maytag dishwashers a common problem area has been the small gasket on the soap door latch. This gasket wears out and leaks water between the inner and outer panels and onto the floor. A grommet and latch kit can be purchased to correct this type of leak.

cup door latch and gasket kit

above.

Probably, but usually as long as the nut is in place the dispensor body will not give you any problems, but to prevent anybody from using it....add a drop of glue to the removable knob and twist it back into place.

jeff. Appliance Repair Aid

[Phisherman]

Not sure if this will help. I took mine apart and cleaned out all the dried crud (prolly dried soap). Apparently, this buildup was Cascade (I don't use the rinse stuff) but now I use Electrosol w/ power ball tablet and there is no leaks nor buildup. Make sure your seal is very clean--use a cleaning mix of hot water and vinegar.