What is the first step in diagnosing a dishwasher that won t start?

Author: Caden Parker  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 30, 2025

The dishwasher light switch shuts off power to the dishwasher when the switch is in the “off” position. So, the first step in troubleshooting a dishwasher that won't power up is to check that light switch. Turning on that switch may fix the problem right away and you can start the dishwasher.

When I press start on my dishwasher, nothing happens.?

Several factors can contribute to this, including: Power Issues: The dishwasher might not be plugged in, the circuit breaker could have tripped, or there might be a blown fuse. Door Latch: As mentioned earlier, if the door doesn't latch correctly, the dishwasher won't start as a safety measure.

How to troubleshoot a dishwasher that won't turn on?

Ensure it's plugged in: Make sure the dishwasher is securely plugged into the outlet. Check the circuit breaker: If the dishwasher won't turn on, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. Ensure the door closes properly: The dishwasher won't run if the door isn't securely closed.

Is there a reset button on a dishwasher?

Most dishwashers have a Start button that doubles as the reset button. You can also reference your dishwasher owner's manual to determine the exact location of the reset feature.

How to diagnose a dishwasher?

How to Diagnose Dishwasher Problems
  1. Overloading By putting too many dishes in each load, you may cause the machine to leak. ...
  2. Faulty Door Seal Check the plastic seal around the door of your dishwasher. ...
  3. Excessive Detergent Check your detergent tray. ...
  4. Faulty pipe connections Check the pipes in the back of your machine.

Dishwasher Won’t Start — Dishwasher Troubleshooting

How do I reset my dishwasher circuit?

Dishwasher - Reset Circuit Breaker
  1. Turn off the circuit breaker in the breaker box or remove the fuse in the fuse box.
  2. Wait approximately two minutes.
  3. Turn the circuit breaker on or reinstall the fuse.
  4. Try using the Dishwasher again.

How do you force a dishwasher to restart?

Some models require you to shut off the power to the dishwasher either by unplugging it or shutting off the circuit breaker. Others are reset by pressing and holding the Start/Reset button on the control panel, then waiting a few moments before attempting to start a wash cycle.

Will unplugging my dishwasher reset it?

Dishwashers usually don't have a dedicated reset button on the control panel. You can reset your dishwasher by unplugging it from its power source for one minute and then plugging it back in.

How do I know if my dishwasher control board is bad?

How do I know if my dishwasher's control board is faulty? Look for symptoms like unresponsive buttons, erratic cycle behavior, frequent error codes, or the dishwasher failing to start or complete cycles. These often indicate control board issues.

What is the most common failure on a dishwasher?

Issues like leaks, poor drainage, unclean dishes, foul odors and overall appliance operation, though infrequent, can be the most common problems with a dishwasher that isn't operating properly. In some cases, you can resolve these issues with a little elbow grease and the help of your product manual.

How do I get my dishwasher to start?

  1. Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in and there is no child-lock feature engaged.
  2. Try resetting the dishwasher.
  3. Check the door latch to make sure it's working properly.
  4. The selector switch could be stuck between settings.
  5. You can check the timer, electronic control, motor start relay, and thermal fuse.

Why did my dishwasher stop working all of a sudden?

If you find your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, it could be due to several reasons, including a malfunctioning door latch, a defective control board, or even a power interruption.

Why is my dishwasher not starting but has power?

Dishwasher door is not closed properly

If the dishwasher door does not latch and close fully, the appliance will not start due to safety precautions. Please ensure that you have firmly closed the dishwasher door and then run the program.

Why is my dishwasher not starting its cycle?

When your dishwasher won't start, begin troubleshooting by looking at the most common causes: lack of power, broken door latch, defective timer switch, and blown thermal fuse. If it's not those things, you may need to replace the motor starter relay or drive motor instead.

Is there a reset button on dishwashers?

Some dishwashers come equipped with a reset button on the control panel. If your model has one, locate the button and press it. Hold the button for a few seconds until you see lights blink or hear a beep. This action should initiate the reset process.

Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not turning on?

Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Working

You inadvertently turned on the delayed wash option. The dishwasher door is not fully closed and latched. The water supply is turned off. The power needs to be cycled to reset the dishwasher.

Can you just unplug a dishwasher?

Disconnect the Power

Locate the circuit breaker dedicated to your dishwasher, and flip the breaker to the off position. Many dishwashers are directly wired into the home's electrical system. Your dishwasher may simply be plugged into an outlet under the sink. If this is the case, unplug the dishwasher from the outlet.

How long to unplug dishwasher to reset?

Here's how you can do that: Step 1. Turn off your dishwasher – To do this, you can either press the “Off” button, unplug the machine, or flip the circuit breaker. Wait about 15 minutes before restoring power.

Why is my dishwasher not turning?

Check the door latch to see if food particles or grime are blocking it open, preventing the unit from starting. Check the filter in the base of the appliance to see if it's clogged with debris. Check the child safety features on the dishwasher's control panel. If they're accidentally engaged, the machine won't start.

Why is my dishwasher not on?

Check the power supply

Several different reasons could prevent the appliance from getting electrical power. For example, a tripped circuit breaker, bad electrical outlet, faulty wiring, and even the probability that the dishwasher isn't properly plugged into its wall outlet.

How do you reset a GE dishwasher that won't start?

Try pressing the "Start/Reset" pad to reset the dishwasher and wait 2 minutes. If the problem persists, reset (reboot) the dishwasher by turning off power to the appliance at the house circuit breaker or fuse box for 30 seconds. Restore power and the dishwasher should reset and function normally.

What is Alt button on dishwasher?

Alt button: dual zone wash function, press the button to select either upper basket or lower basketr loaded, and the response indicators will light on. 7. Start/Pause button: to start the selected washing programe or pause the washing program when the machine is working. 8.

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