Dishwasher Problems Solved! Top Causes and Repairs When Yours Won't Start
Is your dishwasher refusing to start no matter how many times you press the start button? Few things are more frustrating than a dead dishwasher full of dirty dishes. But don't worry - with some basic troubleshooting, you can likely get your dishwasher up and running again in no time.
You'll learn how to check for power supply issues, door latch problems, control panel faults, and timer defects. We'll also cover when it's best to call in a professional appliance repair technician. Arm yourself with the information below and you'll be well on your way to banishing the dirty dish pileup for good.
Checking Power to Your Dishwasher
The first thing to check when a dishwasher won't start is the power supply. Several issues could be interrupting power from reaching the dishwasher and preventing operation.
Is the Power Cord Plugged In?
Make sure the dishwasher's power cord is securely plugged into the outlet. Over time, power cords can become slightly dislodged from the outlet, so firmly push the plug into the outlet to ensure a good connection.
Also check that the cord hasn't become crimped or trapped behind the dishwasher. Damage to the cord's wiring can prevent power from reaching the appliance.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
Your kitchen electrical circuit breaker may have tripped, cutting off power to the outlet where the dishwasher is connected. This could happen for a couple reasons:
- Too many appliances running on the same circuit has overloaded it, tripping the breaker.
- A voltage spike or electrical fault triggered the breaker to trip as a safety precaution.
Locate the right circuit breaker in your home's main service panel and flip it fully to the Off position before back On again. This should reset the breaker and restore power to the dishwasher circuit.
Low Voltage
For proper operation, dishwashers require a sustained 120-volt power supply. If your home's electrical system has faulty wiring, the voltage reaching the dishwasher may dip below the minimum of 120 volts.
Signs of insufficient voltage include lights dimming when the dishwasher runs, control panel functions being erratic, or damage to the dishwasher's internal electronics. You'll need an electrician to identify and repair any wiring issues leading to low voltage.
Door Latch Problems Prevent Starting
The next common reason a dishwasher won't start is an issue with the door latch. For the dishwasher to run, the door must be completely closed and the latch fully engaged in order to seal in water during the wash cycle. If the latch or door seal are compromised in any way, the dishwasher's electronic controls will not allow operation.
Inspect the Door Latch
Try closing the dishwasher door firmly and verify that the latch has pulled the door tightly against the door seal. If there's any looseness, adjust the latch mechanism so it provides a snug fit when engaged.
Also check for any broken or cracked parts on the latch assembly that may be preventing it from working properly. Replace any damaged components.
Door Seal
Over time, heat and food particles can degrade and damage the door's rubber gasket seal. Run your fingers along the door seal to feel for any gaps, cracks, or missing pieces.
If the seal is damaged, water can leak out during the wash cycle. Replace damaged door seals to ensure a watertight door closure.
Door Switch Failure
There is an electrical switch that activates when the dishwasher door fully closes and the latch is engaged. This signals to the control electronics that the door is properly sealed so that the dishwasher can safely begin operation.
If this door switch fails due to mechanical or electrical malfunction, the dishwasher won't start. The switch will need to be replaced by a trained appliance repair technician.
Dishwasher Control Panel Issues
The control panel is the brains of the dishwasher, powering the display, allowing cycle program selection, and starting operation. Any number of control panel issues can prevent the dishwasher from turning on.
Settings May Be Blocking Start
Many modern dishwasher have options like Delay Start, Child Lock, and other wash modifiers. Check the control panel settings to ensure you haven't accidentally activated something that is inhibiting the dishwasher from starting immediately.
Refer to your owner's manual if needed to verify which settings may prevent an immediate start when engaged. Reset any settings as needed.
Buttons or Display Not Responding
If the dishwasher's display lights up but pressing buttons elicits no response, there is likely a problem with the control electronics. Buttons may click but not register or the touchscreen may be unresponsive.
First try rebooting the dishwasher by cutting power for several minutes before turning the breaker back on. If button presses still don't activate anything, the control board is likely faulty and requires replacement.
Control Board Malfunction
The dishwasher's control board coordinates all operational functions. Failure of electronic components on the board can lead to a variety of front panel issues including cycle start failure.
Professional diagnosis and repair are needed in this case. Control boards are complex and require expertise to properly identify and fix issues.
Dishwasher Timer Problems
Dishwashers have an internal electronic timer that controls when power is sent to the wash pump, heating element, drain pump, and other dishwasher components during each cycle phase.
If this timer fails, the coordinated sequence of the wash cycle will be disrupted and the dishwasher may not start up when cycle initiation is selected.
Testing the Electronic Timer
To test whether the timer is faulty, first check that the timer control knob clicks when rotated and doesn't slip. Turn the knob slowly and listen for distinct clicks between cycle selections.
If the knob turns without clicking or skips cycles, this indicates damage. Replacement of the electronic timer will be required.
Professional Appliance Repair
While many dishwasher issues can be fixed yourself, some repairs are best left to trained appliance technicians, including:
- Advanced electrical testing.
- Complete control board or electronic part replacement.
- New dishwasher installation and setup.
- Major component swap-outs.
Professional service may cost more but gives you access to advanced diagnostic tools and skills. Technicians can thoroughly troubleshoot tricky issues and identify obscure parts failures.
For major repairs, the added assurance of licensed and insured technicians working on your appliance may be worthwhile.
Armed with the troubleshooting tips above, you now have a great starting point to diagnose why your dishwasher is dead when you press Start. Methodically check the power supply, door latch, control panel, and timer to isolate the issue.