IA detergent dispenser holds the detergent and the rinse aid, and controls when they enter the dishwasher during the cycle. The door is spring-loaded and can become damaged, it can become stuck either in the open or the closed position, or the mechanism which controls it can fail.
So the first thing you want to check is the lid, which should pop open easily with a flat-head screwdriver. Under the lid check for any physical damages and check the spring and tripping mechanism which pokes out when the lid is in the closed position. Also check that the spring is connected to both the lid and the mechanism.
The lid itself is very easy to replace, it simply clicks into place and it can be bought separately as a spare. The spring, again, is very easy to replace as it can be done while the unit is still in the door.
The tripping mechanism, however, you need to remove the unit because you need to get to the underneath the complete unit. In most Bosch dishwashers the spring and the tripping mechanism are brought together as a kit.
So if these all appear to be in working order and you still have a problem, then it's likely to be due to the mechanism of the actual unit itself so you'll need to replace the whole thing. Likewise, if there's a problem with the dispensing of the rinse aid, then you'll need to replace the whole unit.
This video shows an example on how to remove or replace the part on a typical machine, some models may be different but the procedure should be similar.
What You Will Need:
- Detergent Dispenser
- Torx/Flat Head Screwdriver
- Washing Up Liquid
Step 1 - Safety Advice
Safety First! Please make sure that you have switched your appliance off at the mains before starting your repair.
Caution: Due to the sharp edges exposed we suggest suitable Safety Gloves are worn to help prevent injury when carrying out this repair.
Step 2 - Remove Front Panel
First thing first - you need to gain access to the dispenser and to do so you need to remove the front panel of the dishwasher. Remove the screws holding the panel in place on the inside of the door.
eSpares Top Tip: Remove the kickplate first to give yourself some extra space to work with.
Step 3 - Disconnect Wires Off Old Dispenser
With the front panel removed you will see the back of the dispenser unit. It will be attached by two sets of wires, which will require to be removed out of the way.
Step 4 - Remove Old Dispenser Unit
Now you need to unclip the dispenser from it’s metal surround. Basically lift it up and push it through - you may need to use a flat-head screwdriver to prise the metal up, just work your way round until it's completely unclipped and then open the door and pull it out.
Step 5 - Fitting New Dispenser Unit
Time for the new dispenser unit to go into place... The new seal on the dispenser can be quite tight, so lubricated it with a bit of washing up liquid, to help it slide into place.
Pop it in and press down firmly until it clicks into place, once it's in place check the seal is completely sealed around the edge and that the clips are all in place.
Step 6 - The Reassembly
Almost done! All that's left to do is reattach the two wires and then screw the front panel back on. There we go, you have successfully replaced the detergent dispenser for your dishwasher.
Remember To Give Your Dishwasher A Good Clean
If you’re finding that the dishes are not coming out clean as expected then allow us to recommend our tried and tested dishwasher and washing cleaner, which has been reviewed by our customer on how effortlessly you can remove gunk from your dishwasher and washing machine. Watch our care and maintenance guide for a detailed guide on how to use it.
Take a look at our other advice articles to give you the knowledge needed to become the hero of your home.
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