If you’ve got a burning plastic smell coming from your dishwasher, the first thing to check is if something has fallen on the element. I find all kinds of things melted onto the elements including plastic utensils, straws, Tupperware lids, etc.  In this case the rinse agent cap had not been tightened up properly and it fell out and melted.

About 95% of the time when I’m called out to fix a brand new dishwasher that is not draining, the problem ends up being related to the install.

I occasionally see crushed or kinked drain hoses but most often it is due to the knockout not being removed from the drain stub in the plumbing under the sink. Or, if hooked up through a garbage disposal = same thing. The knockout still in place.

This is a knockout that I removed from a garbage disposal yesterday. Not covered by warranty either so the dishwasher install just got a lot more expensive.

Here is a video of how I install the new drain tube that Whirlpool has produced to replace the sticking grommet that causes Whirlpool, Kitchen Aid and Maytag fridges to leak water.  The part number on this kit is W10619951 and Whirlpool usually covers the price of the part for 2 years within the date of purchase.  Call them at 1-800-807-6777 to see if you qualify for this part replacement.  Here is the video … enjoy!

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7akWydOJyhc

You really must use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in your front loading washer. This is what is left behind in your washer and your clothes if you do not use HE.  If I had let this unit continue running, we would have had foam billowing out everywhere – just like in the cartoons.