Whirlpool Dishwasher Problems? Learn What's Causing Yours To Not Turn On
Having your Whirlpool dishwasher suddenly stop turning on can be incredibly frustrating. You load up the dirty dishes after dinner, ready to start the wash cycle, only to find the appliance completely unresponsive when you try to power it on. Don't worry - with a few troubleshooting tips, you can get to the bottom of what's causing your dishwasher to not start up.
Follow along to learn how to diagnose problems with the power supply, control board, door latch, and other key components. With some simple DIY troubleshooting and repairs, you can avoid the hassle and expense of calling out an appliance technician.
Checking Possible Power Supply Issues
The first thing to check when a Whirlpool dishwasher won't start is the power supply. An issue here could easily prevent the dishwasher from turning on.
Inspecting the Power Cord
Make sure the power cord is plugged securely into the wall outlet. Over time, vibrations can cause the plug to loosen. Also inspect the cord for any damage, like exposed wires or cracking. You may need to unplug the dishwasher and use another outlet to determine if the issue is with the electrical source.
Testing Voltage and Internal Wiring
Use a multimeter to check the outlet for proper voltage. If the outlet is dead, check your home's circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a fuse has blown or breaker tripped. This could cut power to the dishwasher. Also inspect the junction box behind the dishwasher along with the internal wiring for any loose connections or damage.
Faulty Power Components
If the fuse, transformer, or PC board inside the dishwasher is defective, this can prevent the appliance from powering on. You may need an appliance repair technician to test these components and replace any faulty ones.
Investigating Control and Display Issues
Problems with the control board or user interface can also lead to a Whirlpool dishwasher not starting up.
Control Panel Problems
If the buttons and controls on the dishwasher door seem totally unresponsive, the entire control panel may need replacement. Also check for any loose wiring connections between the control panel and the control board.
Control Board Failure
The most complex component is the control board. It regulates all the dishwasher's functions and cycle programming. If it malfunctions, the dishwasher won't start. A humming noise coming from the dishwasher often indicates a problem with the control board.
Door Latch Switch Issue
If the dishwasher lights illuminate but pressing Start doesn't initiate the wash cycle, the door latch is likely the culprit. The door may appear closed, but the latch switch isn't making proper contact. Adjust the door latch assembly or replace faulty parts like the switch or spring.
Checking for Water Supply Problems
Lack of adequate water supply will also prevent your Whirlpool dishwasher from turning on. Here's how to investigate possible issues:
Inspecting Water Lines
Verify that the water supply line shutoff valve is turned completely to the open position. Also check that the lines aren't kinked or clogged, which would block water from entering the dishwasher.
Testing the Water Inlet Valve
If the inlet valve is faulty, it won't open to allow water to flow into the dishwasher basin. To test, you'll need to remove the access panel and use a multimeter. If defective, the water inlet valve will need replacing.
Drain Pump Problems
Issues with the drain pump not functioning properly can also prevent the dishwasher from turning on. The control board monitors the drain pump and won't start a cycle if a problem is detected.
Investigating Internal Component Failures
Finally, malfunctions with internal wash system components can lead to startup issues. Here are some parts to check:
Circulation Pump/Motor
The circulation pump works in tandem with the control board to circulate water during the wash cycles. If defective, the dishwasher won't start up.
Drying Fan Failure
To dry dishes after washing, the dishwasher relies on a fan and heating element. If either component fails, the drying cycle can't complete, preventing startup.
Faulty Thermistor
The thermistor regulates the internal wash water temperature. If this sensor is defective, the control board will not allow cycles to start as a safety precaution.
Getting Professional Help
If you've worked through all these troubleshooting tips but your Whirlpool dishwasher still won't start, it may be time to call for professional help. An experienced appliance repair technician has the skills and tools to accurately diagnose tricky startup issues.
For older dishwashers, replacement may be the most cost-effective option over continued repairs. You can also check if home warranty coverage is available to help offset the cost of service calls and parts.
As you've seen, there are a number of reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher may not be starting up. With some DIY troubleshooting focusing on the power supply, control board, water lines, and internal components, you can often get the appliance running again without the need for professional repairs.
Don't let frustration over an uncooperative dishwasher lead to an expensive service call right away. Spend some time methodically working through possible causes - in many cases, the fix may be simple. And when you do need professional appliance help, services like home warranties can cover much of the cost. With patience and persistence, you can tackle even the most stubborn dishwasher issue.