No brand dishwasher

[Andy Luckman (AJL Electronics)]

Some 5 years ago, I purchased a semi integrated dishwasher from B&Q as part of a total kitchen package. The machine has done sterling service since then. It has no maker's name nor model number information.

On Sunday I was told that there was a burning smell and the machine didn't work.

When I looked at it, there was only a faint aroma of shellac. I found a fork had dropped through the cutlery basket and had impeded the spinner. The machine takes water, heats and pumps out, but there is nothing but a hum from the spinner motor. Obviously we have a problem with the motor or its start capacitor, but I can't see how to get into it. There is a small access panel at kickboard height where I can see the pump etc but that's all. Do I need to turn it upside down and remove the bottom perhaps?

[Ian Stirling]

Shellac indicates that you've lost a motor winding somehow. It's very unlikely to be a capacitor problem (IMO).

It'll have burnt out the motor winding where the brushes were resting when the motor jammed. Hence, no spinning when power is reapplied.

[Andrew Gabriel]

IME, dishwaster motors are induction motors, but it may still be burned out.

[Pete C]

Hi,

Usually with electrical stuff there is a 'ratings plate' somewhere on the unit with serial and model numbers.

cheers, Pete.

[s--p--o--n--i--x]

Yes, I imagine you will need to turn the machine on the side to remove the motor.

Any decent Domestic appliance spares stockist should be able to identify the motor just by looking at it.

Once you have a model number you could try

for a replacement.

Alternatively, try your local tip, sorry "Household waste recycling centre" as they often have scrap machines going for £3 or so. 9 times out of 10 the parts will be servicable. Strip the spares you need on site rather than taking the machine away.

sponix

[Andy Luckman (AJL Electronics)]

I found out how to get into it and inspected the motor. It seems all OK but have ordered a new capacitor in the hope that it will work.

I found that it is an induction motor running an impeller. That forces water through the spinner making it turn. So the stuck spinner was nothing to do with the fault. Haven't told SWMBO yet, still making use of the guilt trip. :-)

[Andy Luckman (AJL Electronics)]

It is an induction motor driving a pump.

[Andy Luckman (AJL Electronics)]

There is nothing anywhere, but research suggested a Merloni (Indesit).

[Ian_m]

Yes you will probably find if you tip it in its side, you can remove the bottom plate to get access to the pumps and pipes. Also remember to use a wet dry vacuum (or other method) either on the waste pipe or "sump" to remove all water from machine before tipping over or else you will end up having a slight flood incident with the water that remains in the machine.

[Andy Luckman (AJL Electronics)]

Upside down was the key. Bottom off and all becomes clear.

I emailed an on-line company who think it's a Merloni (Indesit).

They don't have a direct replacement capaicor listed, so in view of the help I received, I have paid retail (£6) for a new capacitor in the hope that it will sort the problem.