GE Dishwasher water inlet solenoid

Dishwasher Repair
1

Hi Folks!
I am in need of some technical support for my GE Dishwasher Model: GDT580SGF7WW. I am an electrician and a retired electrical engineer so I have a few smarts left!
The dishwasher has been in flawless use for approximately 6 years with regular cleaning maintenance. It’s a great machine!
Problem: WITHOUT initiating a “cycle start” (control panel Push Button), as soon as the door is closed, the water valve energizes, the dishwasher fills with water and overflows on to the floor. This can be stopped by opening the door, or unplugging the dishwasher, or disconnecting the “normally closed” water inlet valve wire connector.
If I start a dishwasher cycle normally, the dishwasher will operate properly throughout a complete cycle. At the end of the cycle, after the “complete chime” sounds, the water valve energizes and fills the unit and over flows on the floor. (the drain pump works fine).
I removed the “Flood switch” (?) under the filter on the bottom of the tub, by removing the two retaining screws and unplugging the wire harness connector. The flood switch was full of scale and “gunk” and I soaked it in vinegar and cleaned it. I re-installed the flood switch and tested the unit with the same results. I also ran a “continuity check” on the flood switch harness wiring and it all checked out OK.
At this time I purchased a replacement flood switch and installed it.
I am still having the same results with the water inlet valve immediately energizing when the door is closed and no cycle start. Open the door, and the inlet valve shuts off.
The only thing I have left to do it to replace the MAIN BOARD. I have removed the board in the past for inspection but see no visible signs of water damage or anything else.
Before I purchase a new main board I wanted to share with you in detail what is happing with the unit.

I purchased the unit in the US and had it shipped to the Dominican Republic 6 years ago. I have no idea if I can get service here in the country. I doubt it!!
Thank you in advance for any support you may offer, and your prompt attention is greatly appreciated!!!
Respectfully,
Ken

2

You have a strange problem. Not one I’ve heard of before. My best guess is a stuck relay or a bad triac. Not sure which one is being used to power the water valve. You might trace it on the main board and see if its something you can replace yourself.

3

Thank you. That’s kinda what I was thinking. Not sure if I’ll tear into the PC board though. A new one is about $100.00 US, just take about three weeks to get here! Another option was to install a microphone on the door, attached to a high power amplifier, so when the EOC chime rings, I can hear it throughout the house, run down there and open the door. The wife was not really liking that idea though. I don’t know why? Thanks again. Cheers (Ken)