How To Replace A Dishwasher Door Gasket
If your dishwasher leaks near the front, replace the door gasket. The dishwasher door gasket is made from rubber or vinyl, and it forms and airtight seal around the door to prevent leaks. Over time, it can get damaged or wear out. Here are some tips to replace a dishwasher door gasket.
Prepare to Work
For this project, you need:
- work gloves
- sponge or soft rag
- mild dishwashing detergent
- slotted screwdriver
- needle-nose pliers (optional)
- utility knife
- petroleum jelly
- blow dryer
- replacement gasket
Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher, which is commonly a valve on the water line located under the sink. Rotate the valve to the right to shut off the water. Refer to your instruction manual to the dishwasher for the type of gasket to buy.
Remove the Old Gasket
Open the door, and remove the bottom rack. Start pulling off the old gasket from the center top of the door using your fingers or needle-nose pliers.Remove the tails and the wires as you move along the door. Usually, only big dishwashers use wires to connect the tails. Pay attention to how it is attached to help you install the new gasket. Clean around the channel with a sponge or rag and mild dishwashing detergent, then let it dry. Debris will prevent the gasket from sealing properly.
Install the New Seal
Since the new gasket has been folded in the package, you will need to remove creases. Use a blow dryer on a low setting to smooth the creases. If the gasket feels hard, soak it in hot water for several minutes to soften it. Apply petroleum jelly to the gasket flanges to help the gasket slip into place easier. Then new gasket should have a paint line or notch indicating the center. Otherwise, fold the gasket to find the center.
Installing the gasket from the center ensures there is adequate overlap on the bottom of both channel ends. Begin pushing the gasket at the top middle of the channel, which is commonly the door lock mechanism. Continue pressing the gasket in place until you complete one corner; insert wires on gasket tails, if needed, and repeat on the other corner. The gasket should stick no more than three-fourths of an inch from the channel sides.Trim excess with a utility knife. .Leave the door closed for about three hours, so the gasket can adapt to the door. The door may seem difficult to close for several days after installation.
Reinstall the bottom rack, restore the water supply, and test the dishwasher. If the gasket fails to stop the leak, contact an appliance services company.