There are two wires (four, if it
has two solenoids) connected to the water inlet valve. Label the
wires and connections so that you can properly reconnect them
later. The wires are connected with slip on connectors. Firmly
pull the connectors off of the terminals (do not pull on the wire
itself). You may need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove
the connectors. Inspect the connectors and the terminals for corrosion.
If either is corroded they should be cleaned or replaced.
Use a continuity tester or multitester
to test for continuity.
Set the multitester to the ohms setting X1. Touch one probe to
each terminal. A reading of infinity indicates a bad solenoid
that must be replaced.
Different brands and models will have various measurements, but
the valve should show some resistance if it is functioning properly.
If your valve has two solenoids, test the second
one in the same way as the first.
If the solenoid is working properly,
but water leaks through the valve even when the dishwasher is
off, then the valve itself is the problem. Debris may be preventing
the valve from closing. If the valve cannot be cleaned, it will
have to be replaced. The
valve can also fail mechanically. So even if it passes the electrical
test, it may still require replacement. If you have ruled out
all other possibilities, go ahead and replace the valve.
