How to replace the salt container in your dishwasher

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Use this guide to swap a leaking or cracked salt container and restore your dishwasher’s water-softening system. A damaged container can trigger Aquastop alarms, cause leaks onto the floor, or result in cloudy dishes due to mineral buildup.

You'll learn how to safely diagnose the issue, remove the old container, document wiring, and install a replacement without damaging connected components.

For help with common salt-related issues, browse our dishwasher Q&A forum for community-solved cases.

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crwdns2931653:01crwdne2931653:0 Diagnose a faulty salt container

Watch for continuous pumping with the door open or an active Aquastop alarm.
Look for unexplained water under basic models that lack Aquastop.
Leaks usually start at the welded seam on the bottom of the salt container.
If these symptoms appear, plan to replace the container.

crwdns2931653:02crwdne2931653:0 Disconnect power and protect the area

Unplug the dishwasher from the mains before touching any parts.
Spread absorbent towels around the base because residual water will spill.
Collect a screwdriver, adjustable pliers, towels, and a phone or camera.
Tilt the appliance only slightly during work to avoid stressing joints.

crwdns2931653:03crwdne2931653:0 Remove the decorative front cover

Undo the left‑hand screw securing the cover to the door frame.
Remove the matching screws on both sides.
Tilt and lift the cover away to expose the salt filler neck.
Keep one hand on the salt container throat to support it later.

crwdns2931653:04crwdne2931653:0 Document all wiring

Photograph every wire on the inlet valves and microswitch with a smartphone.
Store the images for exact reference during reassembly.

crwdns2931653:05crwdne2931653:0 Remove the side panel

Unscrew and lift off the panel on the same side as the salt container.
Handle the attached multi‑chamber softening system carefully to avoid strain.

crwdns2931653:06crwdne2931653:0 Release the salt container

Remove the external screw that locks the container to the chassis.
Unscrew the inner retaining ring surrounding the filler neck; use pliers if tight.
If the ring binds, lift the container slightly from below while turning.
Support the container at all times so it does not drop when freed.

crwdns2931653:07crwdne2931653:0 Disconnect hoses and extract the container

Detach the rubber hoses from the container base while holding it steady.
Remove the complete container assembly from the cabinet.
Inspect the lower seam for cracks or mineral stains confirming the leak.

crwdns2931653:08crwdne2931653:0 Prepare and install the new container

Note that replacement containers ship dry, so handling is easier.
Reconnect each hose to the matching port on the new container.
Seat the container, hand‑tighten the retaining ring, then snug it with pliers.
Refit and tighten the external mounting screw.

crwdns2931653:09crwdne2931653:0 Reassemble and test

Reinstall the side panel, reconnect wires using your photos, and fit the front cover.
Fill the container with dishwasher salt and add about 500 ml of water to prime it.
Run a short rinse programme to flush air and activate the softening circuit.
Always top up salt even when using multifunction tablets to prevent blockages.
Repairs may void warranty; confirm manufacturer terms before starting work.

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With the new salt container primed and the rinse cycle completed, the dishwasher’s softening system is back in service. Keep the reservoir filled with proper dishwasher salt and repeat short rinse cycles after every refill to maintain clear, spot‑free results.