KitchenAid dishwashers are premium appliances found in renovated Toronto kitchens, new builds in Leslieville, and high-end condos across the GTA. They're generally reliable — but when they do fail, the repair requires specific knowledge of KitchenAid's (Whirlpool-platform) design and error code system.
This guide covers the top KitchenAid dishwasher problems our Toronto technicians see most, with DIY checks, error code explanations, and repair costs in 2026.
Problem 1: Dishes Not Getting Clean
Clogged Spray Arms
KitchenAid dishwashers use upper and lower spray arms with small holes that can clog with lime scale and food debris. When clogged, water pressure drops and dishes in certain zones don't get cleaned. DIY fix: remove the spray arms (they twist off), rinse them under hot water, and poke a toothpick through any blocked holes. If cleaning doesn't restore pressure, the wash pump may need replacement.
Failed Wash Pump or Motor
The wash pump forces water through the spray arms at high pressure. When the motor bearings wear out or the impeller cracks, water pressure drops significantly — dishes look like they were just rinsed, not washed. Signs: a hissing or grinding noise during the wash cycle, or noticeably poor cleaning performance. Wash pump replacement: $200–$340.
Water Temperature Too Low
KitchenAid recommends inlet water temperature of at least 120°F (49°C) for proper cleaning. If your Toronto home's hot water heater is set too low, or if the dishwasher's heating element has failed, water temperature won't be sufficient to activate detergent enzymes and remove grease. Test: run the kitchen faucet until it's hot before starting the dishwasher. If cleaning improves, check your water heater setpoint. If not, the dishwasher's heating element may have failed (error code 9-1).
Problem 2: Not Draining
Clogged Filter Assembly (DIY Fix)
KitchenAid dishwashers have a two-part filter system at the tub floor — a coarse screen and a fine cylindrical filter. These must be cleaned monthly. Remove the lower rack, twist and lift the cylindrical filter, remove the flat screen beneath it, and rinse both under hot water with a brush. Reinstall and run a rinse cycle. This resolves drain problems in many cases at no cost.
Failed Drain Pump
If the filter is clean but the dishwasher still won't drain (water sitting in the bottom after the cycle), the drain pump motor has likely failed. You may hear humming or silence where a drain noise should be. Drain pump replacement: $180–$300. On KitchenAid models, the drain pump is accessed from the front after removing the door panel — a job for a technician.
Problem 3: Not Starting or Mid-Cycle Stops
Door Latch Failure
KitchenAid dishwashers require a fully engaged door latch to run. A worn latch doesn't send the start signal to the control board — the dishwasher appears unresponsive. This is especially common on KitchenAid models with the third rack (KDTE series) where the door is slightly heavier. Door latch replacement: $130–$200.
Control Board Failure
The control board governs every dishwasher function. When it fails, the dishwasher may not respond to button presses, stop mid-cycle randomly, or display persistent error codes. Control board replacement: $250–$420. For KitchenAid models under 5 years old, it's worth checking if the board is covered under extended warranty — contact KitchenAid Canada.
KitchenAid Error Code Reference — Toronto
| Error Code | Meaning | Typical Fix |
|---|---|---|
| 6-1 / F6E1 | Water fill sensor fault | Float switch or inlet valve: $130–$220 |
| 6-2 / F6E2 | Water not filling | Inlet valve replacement: $140–$230 |
| 7-1 / F7E1 | Heating element fault | Element replacement: $150–$260 |
| 9-1 / F9E1 | Diverter motor fault | Diverter motor: $180–$300 |
| 1-1 / F1E1 | NTC temperature sensor | Sensor replacement: $130–$210 |
| 8-1 / F8E1 | Drain fault | Filter clean or drain pump: $0–$300 |
KitchenAid Dishwasher Problem? Same-Day Repair in Toronto
We carry KitchenAid parts for KDTE, KDTM, and KDPE series — the most common Toronto KitchenAid models. Most repairs done in one visit with 90-day warranty.
Call (437) 524-1053 Book OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
What are common KitchenAid dishwasher problems?
The most common issues are: dishes not clean (spray arm or pump), not draining (filter or drain pump), door latch failure, and error codes 6-1, 7-1, 9-1 (fill, heating, diverter faults). Most are repairable same-day.
How much does KitchenAid dishwasher repair cost in Toronto?
Spray arm cleaning $0 (DIY), drain pump $180–$300, door latch $130–$200, control board $250–$420. Fixlify includes 90-day warranty on all repairs. Call (437) 524-1053.
What does error code 6-1 mean on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
6-1 (F6E1) means the water fill sensor is not detecting water correctly. The float switch or water inlet valve is typically the cause. Both are repairable same-day. Call Fixlify at (437) 524-1053.
Is KitchenAid dishwasher repair worth it in Toronto?
Yes — for units under 8 years old, repair almost always makes sense. KitchenAid dishwashers cost $1,200–$2,500 to replace new, while most repairs cost $130–$340. Even a control board ($250–$420) is far less than replacement.
Fixlify Appliance Services repairs KitchenAid dishwashers across Toronto, North York, Scarborough, and the GTA. We also service all KitchenAid appliances including washers, refrigerators, and ranges. Call (437) 524-1053.