Kenwood dishwasher fun (KDW12ST3A): E3 (low heat error) and the upper spray bar

 Well, its been a while since my dishwasher last needed some TLC. As to that, see my many previous posts on this matter. 

Lately, the dishwasher has been misbehaving again. Items in the top drawer were often not cleaned properly and there would sometimes be, additionally, an E3 (low heat) error. Based on prior experience I didn't think the low heat error would be connected to a problem with the heater or pump. And so having mulled over this occasional annoyance (for several months, in fact), the actual cause of the problem finally revealed itself - the upper spray bar was simply worn out and on a recent wash completely detached itself from its connection. I think the low heat error was due to the bar leaking out of all the wrong places with the result that the water pressure in the machine was not high enough to keep the heater switched on (again, see my previous posts for my theory about that).  

It was clear on a close inspection that the bar was beyond saving and needed replacing. I did give considerable thought to finally buying a new dishwasher as I've had my money's worth out of this one, but the thought of tossing this long-time but slightly-not-working-properly family member into the scrap was too much to bear. 

A quick browse on Amazon turned up what appeared to be an identical spare part for £26. To be fair, that was more than I wanted to pay so I took a punt on a cheaper part which looks a bit different but which I hoped would fit. That part arrived the other day. It took me 30 seconds to install it and now I have my dishwasher back, functioning perfectly and lovely clean dishes. This is the part I bought from Amazon. Pictures below compare the old and new parts for reference.

More soon, no doubt....

D