How To Replace The Heating Element On Your Maytag Dishwasher

If your Maytag dishwasher (model number MDB4409PAB0) is not properly drying your dishes when the cycle is done, then you most likely have a broken heating element. Without a heating element that works, your dishes will get clean but will not dry quickly. When this happens, you can replace the heating element yourself by following these basic instructions.

Accessing The Dishwasher

In order to gain access to the heating element, you will need to be able to reach the bottom of your dishwasher.

Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two screws from the brackets holding the top of your washer to the counter.
Once they are removed you will be able to slide your dishwasher forward.
Next, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the bottom panel. You may need to disconnect the washer from the electrical line or water supply line to get it out far enough to reach the area you need.

Removing The Broken Heating Element

You will see a red wire and a red and white wire underneath the dishwasher, near the back. These connect to the heater. Unplug both of them.
Using adjustable pliers, remove the white plastic nuts that hold the heater in place. You can tell they are the correct nuts because these were where the wires were plugged in.
Once these are removed you can remove the heating element from the inside of the dishwasher. (It may be easier to remove the spray arm to get the heater out.)
Insert the new heater so that it fits in the same way the old one was.

Back at the bottom of the dishwasher, replace the locking nuts to hold the new heating element in place. It is very important that you do not over tighten them! Reconnect the red and red/white wires as they originally were. Reconnect any electrical lines or water hoses you may have removed in the process. Mind that none of your hoses or wires get pinched or twisted as you replace your unit.

You are now ready to reinstall your bottom panel and put your dishwasher back in place! Give your dishwasher a test run and enjoy your handiwork.

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