Frigidaire Dishwasher Float Switch Replacement — What This Part Does
The float switch assembly in a Frigidaire dishwasher is a safety device that stops water from overfilling the tub. A plastic float rises as water enters the dishwasher, and when it reaches the correct level, the float mechanically actuates a switch that signals the control board to shut off the fill valve. If the float cannot move freely or the switch fails to change state, the dishwasher may keep filling past the safe level or the control may interpret a flood condition and lock out the cycle.
The float switch typically fails because the float becomes stuck by detergent buildup, food debris, or a mispositioned dish rack blocking its movement. The switch contacts can also wear out or fail electrically, no longer signaling the control board correctly. On some models the float itself can crack, break, or become unseated from its base opening, preventing proper actuation. Wiring connector problems at the switch terminals are less common but can mimic a failed switch.
Signs It Needs Replacing
- Dishwasher overfills or water leaks from the door The float is stuck down or the switch fails to signal the control, so the fill valve stays open and water floods the tub.
- Continuous fill or fill does not stop during cycle The switch is not changing state when the float rises, so the machine never receives the signal to stop filling.
- Flood error or overfill fault code on display The control interprets the switch as falsely actuated or stuck, triggering a flood safety lockout.
- No click sound when you press the float down manually A working float switch typically makes an audible click when actuated, so no click suggests the switch is mechanically or electrically failed.
- Float does not move freely or is visibly stuck Debris, detergent buildup, or a dish rack item blocks the float, preventing it from rising and actuating the switch.
- Float assembly is cracked, broken, or unseated from base Physical damage or improper installation prevents the float from reaching the switch or moving correctly in its housing.
How to Replace It
- Shut off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit completely.
- Remove the lower front access panel by unscrewing the retaining screws along the bottom edge of the door.
- Pull out the lower dish rack and locate the float assembly in the tub bottom or base area (usually a round plastic dome).
- Lift the float up and down by hand to verify free movement and listen for a click from the switch underneath, noting any sticking or blockage.
- Remove any debris, detergent buildup, or items blocking the float, then retest movement and click.
- If the switch still does not click or the float is damaged, disconnect the wire connectors from the float switch terminals below the tub.
- Unscrew the retaining screw(s) securing the float switch assembly to the base or tank, then lift out the old switch and float.
- Install the new float switch assembly by reversing removal: position it in the base opening, fasten the retaining screw(s), and reconnect the wire terminals.
- Reinstall the lower dish rack and front access panel, restore power, and run a short fill cycle to confirm the machine stops filling at the correct level with no overfill or error code.
The Part You Need
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Float switch assembly | Amazon | OEM part number 154773201 fits many Frigidaire models. Check the model and serial plate inside the door edge or on the tub rim for your exact model number and confirm fitment with your parts supplier. |
| Float (if separate from switch) | Amazon | Some models use a separate replaceable float such as part number 154767801. Verify which components are sold together or separately for your specific Frigidaire dishwasher model. |
Related Error Codes
If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:
- Frigidaire Dishwasher I20 error code
- Frigidaire Dishwasher I30 error code
- Frigidaire Dishwasher I40 error code
- Frigidaire Dishwasher L0 L6 error code
- Frigidaire Dishwasher Loc error code
- Frigidaire Dishwasher Pf error code
When to Call a Pro
If you are uncomfortable working with electrical connections inside the dishwasher, call a qualified appliance technician. If replacing the float switch assembly does not resolve the overfill condition, the problem may lie in the fill valve, control board wiring, or pressure sensor, and professional diagnosis with a meter and wiring diagram is recommended. Any situation where you cannot safely access or remove the switch, or where the dishwasher continues to flood after part replacement, requires a service call.