What would cause a Whirlpool dishwasher not to start?

Author: Buck Heidenreich  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Working The control lock is on. Sleep mode is on. You inadvertently turned on the delayed wash option. The dishwasher door is not fully closed and latched.

How do you fix a Whirlpool dishwasher that won't start?

Try this first - unplug or shut off breaker to dishwasher for 5 minutes, then power back on - if you still are NOT able to get buttons to work to change cycles, look for a control lock button on the panel - press and HOLD it for 3 to 5 seconds to UNLOCK the panel.

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.

What is the most common problem with a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Most common problems with Whirlpool dishwashers

The dishwasher does not drain properly. The detergent cup is not working properly. The dishwasher is not filling with water. The dishwasher door is leaking.

Why is my dishwasher not starting but has power?

Verifying the setting status of features like control lock or sleep mode, ensuring the door is latched or checking the power and water supply usually solves the problem. Regular maintenance like cleaning the filter, and following the instructions in the user manual, can also help your dishwasher keep up.

Dishwasher Won’t Start - Top 6 Reasons & Fixes - Whirlpool, GE, LG, Maytag & More

How do I do a hard reset on my Whirlpool dishwasher?

Make sure the dishwasher is in Standby mode (no cycle running). Press the "Heated Dry," and "Normal," buttons one after the other, twice. After entering the correct button sequence, the control panel should light up as the dishwasher begins the reset. Allow the process to continue until it automatically shuts off.

What is the most common part to fail on a dishwasher?

The most common problem with a dishwasher is a lack of water flow or a clogged drain. This can be caused by blockages in the line, a faulty water inlet valve, or a broken pump motor.

Why won't my Whirlpool dishwasher run a cycle?

Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Working

The control lock is on. Sleep mode is on. You inadvertently turned on the delayed wash option. The dishwasher door is not fully closed and latched.

What is the average life of a Whirlpool dishwasher?

The life expectancy of a dishwasher is about 10 years, according to manufacturers surveyed by Consumer Reports. However, issues with the appliances tend to develop within the first five years.

Is it worth repairing a Whirlpool dishwasher?

You're better off putting the money toward a new $500 appliance. But for a $1,000 dishwasher, a $140 repair is often worth pursuing for the better part of a decade. Most appliances are covered under warranty in their first year.

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.

Where is the start reset button on a dishwasher?

Where is the dishwasher reset button? 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.

What would cause a Whirlpool washer not to start?

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer won't start cycle are a malfunctioning electronic control board, jammed door lock assembly or a faulty user interface.

Does Whirlpool have a reset button?

Many Whirlpool dryers have a reset button, but the location and appearance of the button can vary depending on the model of your dryer. In some cases, the reset button may be located on the control panel, while in others it may be located on the back of the dryer.

What can go wrong with a Whirlpool 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.

Which dishwasher brand lasts the longest?

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.

How long are Whirlpool dishwashers under warranty?

Your Whirlpool® dishwasher and its parts are covered for one year after the date of purchase.

How do I fix my Whirlpool dishwasher that won't start?

There are several reasons why your Whirlpool dishwasher not starting or not operating:
  1. Control lock is on.
  2. Dishwasher is in sleep mode.
  3. Delayed wash option is selected.
  4. Door is not completely closed and latched.
  5. Water supply is not turned on.
  6. The power needs to be cycled to reset the dishwasher.

Where is the reset button on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Reset the Control Panel

Locate the control panel on your Whirlpool dishwasher and press and hold the “Start” button for about three seconds. This will initiate a reset and may resolve any minor issues causing the dishwasher not to start.

Why would my dishwasher just stop working?

The usual culprits are misalignment of the machine, a latch dirty with food, soap, and grime, a dishwasher rack sticking out, a micro switch in the latch is faulty, problems with the mechanical hinges or springs on the door, or the gasket seal is failing. Check each of these components.

How do you diagnose a dishwasher problem?

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.

How do you know your dishwasher is dying?

Six Signs It May Be Time to Replace Your Dishwasher
  1. All the food particles don't come off the plates.
  2. The glasses are clean but look cloudy.
  3. The door doesn't latch.
  4. The dishes never dry.
  5. There's standing water in the dishwasher at the end of a cycle.
  6. The dishes are cold immediately after the cycle ends.

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