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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Washer RepairKitchenAid Washer dispenser not working properly Repair
KitchenAid Washer dispenser not working properly
If your KitchenAid washer dispenser is not working, detergent, bleach, or fabric softener may remain in the drawer or fail to reach the wash tub. The most likely cause is low household water pressure or a faulty water inlet valve, which supplies water to flush the dispenser. Check that the water pressure is at least 20 psi, then replace the water inlet valve if pressure is adequate and flow remains weak. Next, inspect the detergent container and dispenser drawer for clogs, misalignment, cracks, or other damage. A blocked dispenser, siphon break, or siphon tube can also cause diluted detergent or fabric softener to remain in the tray, so clean the compartments and siphon passages thoroughly. If the washer dispenser still is not dispensing detergent, use a multimeter to check whether the control board is sending voltage to the dispenser valves or actuator at the correct time. A failed control board may need replacement. Enter your model number to find the exact KitchenAid replacement part for your specific washing machine, including the water inlet valve, detergent container, dispenser, siphon break, drawer, or control board.
01 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Dispenser
A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
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02 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve
The dispenser uses water from the inlet valve to flush out the detergent and fabric softener from the dispenser. If the water flow is too slow the dispenser will not distribute the detergent and softener properly. The water inlet valve requires at least 20 psi to function properly. First, check the water pressure to determine that it is adequate. If the water pressure is adequate, replace the water inlet valve.
Top Solution
03 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Detergent Container
The dispenser's detergent container could be clogged, misaligned, or damaged, and unable to dispense its contents properly. Inspect the detergent container for any damage and replace if necessary.
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04 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Siphon Break
Some dispensers use a siphon tube. If the siphon tube gets plugged you may get a diluted mixture of detergent, bleach, or fabric softener remaining in the tray. Make sure the dispenser compartment trays and siphon tubes are clean.
Highly Likely
05 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Drawer
A washer dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
Common
06 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Detergent Dispenser
Most washer dispensers use a water inlet valve to move water through the different dispenser compartments at specified times to dispense the soap or fabric softener. Some models use a diverter motor. If the dispenser is clogged and cannot be cleaned or the water inlet valve is part of the dispenser and no water is flowing through it, the dispenser will need to be replaced.
Common
07 - KitchenAid Washing Machine Control Board
A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the appliance's control board is not sending power to the dispenser water valves or dispenser actuator at the proper times. You can use a multimeter to help determine if voltage is reaching these components. If not, the control board will need to be replaced.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my KitchenAid washer not dispensing detergent or fabric softener?
How do I fix a KitchenAid washer dispenser that is not working?
Could the water inlet valve cause my KitchenAid washer dispenser problems?
How can I tell whether the KitchenAid washer control board is causing the dispenser not to work?
How do I find the correct KitchenAid washer dispenser replacement part?