Dishwasher gasket replacement

Order the replacement dishwasher door gasket—also called a seal—through the manufacturer or by searching for dishwasher gaskets online.

You will need to know the make and model of the dishwasher to obtain the correct gasket. This information should be on the inside of the door panel or along the doorjamb.

Try to use an original replacement part. It may be slightly more expensive but will provide a better fit and seal. Expect to pay around $30-$85, depending on your model.

Tip: Fill your kitchen sink with warm water to soak the new gasket before installation; this will make the gasket easier to work with. Dry before installing.

If the dishwasher plugs into an outlet, unplug it.

Otherwise, turn the power off at the circuit breaker on your electrical panel or remove the proper fuse from the fuse box. While it is very unlikely that the dishwasher could start with the door open, it's always a good idea to shut off the power supply before attempting to repair any appliance.

Dishwasher door gaskets are normally held in place in one of two ways. The gasket may be held in with a bracket that is screwed in place or it may be press fit.

• If the gasket is screwed in, loosen but do not remove the screws holding the bracket by using the proper screwdriver. Loosen the screws only enough to slip the old gasket out.

• If the gasket is pressed into place, gently pull it out. Choose one area and begin pulling the gasket until it tugs free from the groove or channel. Do not attempt to dig it out as this could damage the groove. You may try to gently remove it with a flat-head screwdriver; just be careful not to scratch anything.

If you are unable to remove the gasket, leave the job to a dishwasher repair expert.

Note: Compare your old gasket to the new gasket to ensure that they are similar. The old gasket may have stretched and flattened over time, so it may appear slightly larger.

Clean all dirt or debris from the gasket bracket or groove using a small dish scrubber or rag that has been dipped into a bucket of warm, soapy water. Hardened soap or food particles will not allow the gasket to seal completely.

If the gasket is pressed into a groove, use an old toothbrush to clean the grooved area more thoroughly.

The thinner edge of the gasket is the part that fits into the groove or under the bracket. Install the new seal, starting with the top center and moving to the sides and bottom; the center of the gasket is often marked by a line.

• For a press-fit gasket, gently push the gasket lightly into the groove without stretching it. Work from one corner to the next and continue until the entire gasket has been installed. Once you are sure that the gasket fits correctly, push it completely into place. Needle-nose pliers can be used to help push the gasket in. Use caution to prevent ripping or cutting the gasket.

• For a bracket style holder, work from one corner to the next and lightly tighten the screws as you work. This will help prevent the gasket from slipping out. Once you are sure of the fit, finish tightening all of the screws.

Tip: Do not overtighten any of the gasket screws. The screws should be snug but not compress the seal. If the seal is too tight it may leak around the screw areas.

Look at the fit of the new gasket. No sections should be stretched thinly or bulge outward. Make adjustments as needed. Close the dishwasher door and check to ensure the new seal is making full contact on all sides.

Restore power to the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher for a short cycle and inspect it for leaks by checking along the door edges for any signs of water. Be aware that a leak can start out small and progress over time. If the gasket is leaking, go back over the gasket to ensure that it has not slipped out of place.

Tip: Run the dishwasher at least monthly. If a dishwasher goes unused, the seals can deteriorate. Door gaskets need exposure to water to remain pliable.

Service pro’s plea: If in doubt, stay out. Don’t risk causing more damage to your product (or yourself!) by attempting to fix it on your own. It’s also easier and quicker for a service technician to diagnose and fix a problem when the product is assembled. In the end, you’ll save time and money.