Maintaining your dishwasher ensures efficient cleaning and prevents costly breakdowns. Dishwashers, essential kitchen appliances, handle daily loads of plates, glasses, and utensils. Over time, components wear out due to water exposure, heat, and frequent use. Common issues include leaks from faulty seals, poor draining from clogged pumps, or racks that won't slide smoothly. Replacing parts promptly extends the appliance's life, often at a fraction of repair service costs. This article lists popular spare parts, their functions, and approximate prices based on major retailers like Amazon, Repair Clinic, and PartSelect as of November 2025. Prices vary by brand (e.g., Whirlpool, Bosch, GE) and model compatibility—always check your manual for exact fits. Sourcing genuine OEM parts guarantees durability and performance.
| Part Name | Description | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Door Gasket/Seal | Rubber seal around the door to prevent leaks; common failure from wear. | $20 - $50 |
| Drain Pump | Pumps out dirty water; fails if noisy or doesn't drain. | $40 - $100 |
| Water Inlet Valve | Controls water entry; clogs or breaks, causing no-fill issues. | $15 - $40 |
| Lower Dishrack Wheels | Plastic wheels for smooth rack sliding; crack from heavy loads. | $10 - $25 (kit) |
| Upper Rack Adjuster Kit | Adjusts rack height; sags or sticks if broken. | $20 - $50 |
| Spray Arm | Rotates to spray water; clogs with debris, reducing cleaning. | $15 - $35 |
| Heating Element | Heats water for drying; faulty if dishes stay wet. | $30 - $60 |
| Filter Assembly | Traps food particles; clean or replace if draining slows. | $10 - $30 |
| Control Board | Manages cycles; glitches cause error codes. | $100 - $250 |
| Timer | Times wash cycles; stops working if unit won't start. | $50 - $120 |
| Drain Hose | Carries water to drain; kinks or cracks lead to backups. | $15 - $40 |
| Thermostat | Regulates temperature; inaccurate if water too hot/cold. | $10 - $25 |
| Rack Stop Clip | Prevents rack from falling out; breaks from repeated pulls. | $5 - $15 |
| Wash Arm Support | Supports spray arm; needed if arm wobbles. | $10 - $20 |
These parts address 80% of DIY repairs, per appliance experts. For instance, a worn door gasket often causes puddles under the unit—simple to replace with basic tools. Drain pumps, vital for hygiene, may hum loudly when failing; testing at a parts store confirms issues. Rack components like wheels and adjusters improve usability, especially in households with varied dish sizes. Electrical parts such as heating elements and thermostats ensure energy-efficient operation, complying with modern standards.
When buying, compare prices across sites: Amazon offers deals on generics, while OEM sites like Bosch or Whirlpool provide model-specific options. Factor in shipping—many ship same-day. Tools needed: screwdriver, pliers, and multimeter for electrical tests. Safety first: unplug the unit before repairs. If unsure, consult videos from PartSelect or Repair Clinic.
Beyond fixes, preventive care like monthly filter cleaning and using quality detergent minimizes part needs. Descalers remove limescale buildup, prolonging inlet valves and elements. For commercial units, robust parts like relay boards handle heavier use.
In summary, stocking basics like gaskets and hoses saves time and money. With prices ranging $5-$250, repairs beat $500+ replacements. Verify compatibility via model numbers for seamless installs. Regular upkeep keeps your dishwasher sparkling—literally
