What is the first step in diagnosing a dishwasher that won't start?

Author: Prof. Dimitri Stoltenberg  |  Last update: Saturday, April 19, 2025

When faced with a dishwasher that won't start, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and potentially resolve the issue:
  • Check the power supply: Ensure the dishwasher is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped.
  • Inspect the door latch: Make sure the door is closing properly and the latch engages.

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.

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 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.

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.

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?

If the dishwasher won't start but has power, it could be stuck between cycles. If the start button has been pushed more than once, the dishwasher may revert to a drain cycle. To remedy this, allow the drain cycle to run, let it sit for 60 to 90 seconds, then press the start button once.

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.

How do I get my dishwasher to start?

Check the dishwasher's circuit breaker on your home's circuit panel. If the circuit is tripped, reset it to ensure the dishwasher has power. Check the door latch to see if food particles or grime are blocking it open, preventing the unit from starting.

How do I know if my control board is bad?

Control boards can fail for various reasons, but the tell-tale symptoms look the same:
  1. Warning lights flashing or staying on.
  2. Inability to settle on a stable temperature.
  3. Stuttering or interrupted furnace sequence.

How much does a new control board for a dishwasher cost?

If the board is burned, cracked or corroded, it needs to be replaced. If the board appears to pass a visual inspection, it is a good candidate for repair service. Many control boards cost $250 to as much as $1100 while UpFix repair service only costs $119.00. Shipping charges are typically a wash.

Is there a dishwasher reset button?

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.

How do I make my dishwasher run?

Turn the dishwasher on using the power button on the control panel. Select the programme for your wash. Set a delayed start using the delay timer, if required. Close the dishwasher door and the machine will start automatically.

Does unplugging a 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.

Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not starting?

If your dishwasher isn't starting, it could be that the dishwasher's control keys are locked, the dishwasher could be in demo mode or the door switch isn't working as it should.

What is the best dishwasher brand?

As a leader in home and kitchen appliances, it's no surprise that Bosch dishwashers top many reliability reports. With over 50 years dedicated to dishwasher durability and engineering, Bosch builds dishwashing machines to last a minimum of 10 years.

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