Actuator Gets Hot During Cycle – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If an actuator (diverter motor, dispenser actuator, solenoid or similar small motor/solenoid) in your dishwasher is hot to the touch, it indicates it is drawing too much current, running continuously, or is mechanically bound. Small motors and solenoids can run warm briefly during normal operation, but persistent heat, a burning smell, humming without movement, or tripped breakers are signs of failure and should be addressed promptly. Overheating can be caused by a seized gears/bearing, foreign debris preventing movement, a shorted winding, incorrect voltage from the control board, or a failed control board that feeds continuous power. Left uncorrected an overheated actuator can melt wiring insulation, damage the actuator or surrounding plastic parts, or create a fire hazard. Always disconnect power before touching or testing electrical components.
Common Symptoms
Actuator feels hot to the touch; humming or buzzing while not moving; dishwasher fails to change wash mode/divert water; error codes related to diverter/dispense/door; burning smell or tripped circuit breaker.
Common Causes
- Mechanical binding or foreign object preventing the actuator from turning (causing it to stall and overheat)
- Winding short or internal motor/solenoid failure causing excessive current draw
- Control board or relay supplying continuous voltage (stuck relay or short) so the actuator runs longer than designed
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
With power disconnected, remove the actuator and manually check for free movement; then measure its resistance with a multimeter and compare to the service spec. If the motor/solenoid has low or zero resistance (short) or very high resistance (open) it should be replaced. Also check whether the control board is supplying constant voltage when it should be off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for an actuator to get warm during a dishwasher cycle?
A slight warmth for a short time can be normal, but the actuator should never be hot to the point you can’t hold it or emit a burning smell. Persistent heat, humming without movement or tripped breakers mean something is wrong and the part should be inspected or replaced.
Can I keep using the dishwasher if the actuator is hot?
No — stop using the dishwasher until you diagnose and fix the issue. Continued use can damage the actuator, wiring, nearby plastic components, or create a fire hazard. Disconnect power and either test the actuator (resistance, manual movement) or call a technician. If the control board is supplying continuous power, replacing the board or relay may be required.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.