How to do a hard reset on a Kenmore dishwasher?
To hard reset a Kenmore dishwasher model 2214573N612, we recommend canceling the current cycle and then restoring power long enough to clear the control. This resets the keypad logic and lets you restart a fresh wash cycle.
Fast reset methods (try in this order)
- Press Cancel/Drain (or Cancel) and close the door; wait for the drain to finish.
- Turn OFF power at the breaker for 1 minute, then turn it back ON.
- If the dishwasher is plugged in, unplug it for 1 minute, then plug it back in.
- Wait 3 to 5 minutes after power is restored before starting a new cycle.
- If the control is unresponsive, repeat the breaker reset for 5 minutes.
Control-panel reset (button sequence)
Many Kenmore dishwashers use a keypad sequence to reset the control, but the exact buttons vary by console layout. Use the sequence listed for your exact control panel in the 2214573N612 owner’s manual.
Typical signs the reset worked:
- The cycle stops and the unit drains
- Indicator lights change or return to idle
- You can select a new cycle normally
Safety and power notes
The installation instructions for this dishwasher emphasize safe power handling (grounded outlet, no extension cord). Follow the electrical guidance in the 2214573N612 installation guide before unplugging, plugging in, or accessing wiring.
| Reset type | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Cancel/Drain | Stops cycle and drains water | Stuck mid-cycle, won’t advance |
| Breaker or unplug reset | Clears control memory | Frozen keypad, odd behavior |
| Manual button sequence | Model-specific control reset | Lights flashing, error state |
Why it matters
A proper reset helps clear a false error state, restores normal cycle selection, and prevents repeated drain or start failures. If the dishwasher still will not start after a reset, the issue is usually power, door latch, or a control-related fault.
For code-related resets and what the lights mean, use Kenmore 665 model dishwasher error codes.
Last updated: January 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore dishwashers?
Common problems in Kenmore dishwashers (including model 2214573N612) are not draining, not starting, poor cleaning, leaking, and weak drying. Most of these trace back to airflow and loading issues, clogs in the filter or drain path, or a failed component such as a latch, pump, valve, or heater.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Won’t start: door not fully latched, control lock enabled, power supply issue, failed latch switch
- Won’t drain: clogged drain path, kinked drain hose, failed drain pump
- Poor cleaning: blocked spray arm holes, overloaded racks, low water fill, hard water, wrong detergent
- Leaks: misaligned door, worn lower door seal, loose hose connections
- Not drying: heater circuit issue, rinse aid empty, door opened too soon
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the door closes and latches firmly; a weak latch can prevent the cycle from starting.
- Check the drain hose routing; it should not be kinked and should route cleanly to the drain connection.
- Inspect the lower spray arm for blocked jets and spin interference.
- Run hot water at the sink for 30 to 60 seconds before starting a cycle to improve wash performance.
- Use rinse aid and avoid overloading, especially plastics that trap water.
Parts that commonly fix these issues on 2214573N612
| Problem | Common suspect part | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t start or stops mid-cycle | Dishwasher door latch WPW10653840 | Confirms the door is closed so the control can run |
| Won’t drain | Dishwasher drain pump W10876537 | Pumps water out to the drain line |
| Underfilling or no water | Dishwasher water inlet valve W11175771 | Lets water into the tub at the start of wash |
| Poor drying | Element assembly W10703867 | Heats water and supports drying performance |
Why it matters
These symptoms often overlap. For example, a partial drain restriction can leave dirty water in the sump, which looks like a cleaning problem but is really a draining problem. Starting with simple checks helps you avoid replacing good parts.
Helpful model-specific references
- Use the 2214573N612 installation guide to confirm proper drain routing, utility placement, and door behavior (door tension that falls open or closes by itself can indicate an adjustment need).
- If your dishwasher shows a code, use Kenmore 665 model dishwasher error codes to match the code to the most likely failure.
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the filter on a Kenmore quiet guard dishwasher?
On the Kenmore dishwasher model 2214573N612, the filter is located inside the tub at the bottom, around the sump area under the lower rack. You access it by pulling out the lower rack and lifting or twisting the filter assembly out for cleaning (then reinstalling it fully seated).
How to find and remove the filter
- Turn the dishwasher off; let the wash water cool if it just ran.
- Pull the lower dishrack straight out and set it aside.
- Look at the bottom center of the tub (near the spray arm base and sump cover).
- Remove the filter by lifting it out or turning it counterclockwise (depending on the filter style used in your Quiet Guard design).
- Rinse the filter under warm water; use a soft brush to remove grease and debris.
- Reinstall the filter so it sits flat and fully seated, then reinstall the rack.
For diagrams and the exact filter style used on your unit, use the 2214573N612 owner's manual.
Quick troubleshooting if cleaning the filter does not help
If you are cleaning the filter because of poor washing or standing water, check these common causes:
- Spray arm holes clogged; rinse the lower spray arm and clear jets.
- Drain path restricted (air gap or disposer inlet plug issue).
- Kinked or partially blocked drain hose.
- Weak draining or humming during drain; the drain pump may be failing.
- Low fill or no fill; the inlet valve may be restricted.
Symptom-to-part guide (common matches)
| Symptom | What to check first | Related part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Water left in bottom | Drain hose routing, air gap/disposer | Dishwasher drain pump W10876537 |
| Dishes gritty | Filter seating, spray arm jets | Dishwasher spray arm, lower W10849471 |
| Poor fill, weak wash | Hot water supply, inlet screen | Dishwasher water inlet valve W11175771 |
Why it matters
A clogged or mis-seated filter lets food soil recirculate and can restrict water flow through the sump, which reduces cleaning performance and can contribute to drain problems. Keeping the filter clean also helps protect the pump and motor assembly.
Last updated: January 2026





