Why is my dishwasher running for hours?

Author: Bella Bartell  |  Last update: Sunday, February 9, 2025

It Could Be a Heater Element Issue Each cycle is activated by the cycle before it, so if the water isn't heating to the proper temperature, it will be stuck in the heating stage and never switch to the washing stage. If this happens or you notice undissolved detergent, you may have a problem with your heater element.

Why does my dishwasher keep running and won't shut off?

If your dishwasher keeps running non-stop and won't shut off, it's possible that a malfunctioning drain pump is to blame. After the wash cycle, if the control senses water remaining in the sump, it might activate the drain pump to eliminate the water.

Why is my dishwasher staying on too long?

First, it may be due to your dishes. If your dishes are especially dirty, the dishwasher sensors will default to a longer wash cycle to ensure they're cleaned properly. If you have hard water, limescale or mineral buildup, this could interfere with sensors and cause them to default to a longer setting.

Why does my dishwasher run continuously?

Unfortunately it sounds like your dishwasher is stuck in "flood mode". That impeller that is turning is actually the drain pump continuously running. What that means is that water has worked it's way down into the base pan below the dishwasher tub causing the unit to do nothing but drain.

Is it normal for a dishwasher to run for 4 hours?

It depends on the cycle you choose, most dishwasher cycle times can last anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours. The average dishwasher running time can vary based on sensor readings, how dirty your dishes are, or how long it takes to heat water between cycle phases.

Dishwasher Runs For Hours — Dishwasher Troubleshooting

Why is my dishwasher running for 12 hours?

Check the Timer Motor First. Your dishwasher's cycles are controlled by a timer. It regulates everything from start to finish and switches the machine at proper intervals for filling, heating, washing, rinsing, and drying. If your appliance won't turn off, it may mean you've got a faulty timer motor.

Is it bad to leave dishwasher running?

During the heat/drying cycle the heating element could fail and cause a fire. As with many appliances, it is a good idea to make sure the dishwasher is off when leaving the house or at the very least, cancel the heat or dry cycle before leaving.

Why is my dishwasher not finishing the cycle?

Perform basic troubleshooting by cleaning the filter and spray arm. Also, ensure your dishwasher is getting sufficient water pressure. 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.

How long should a dishwasher run on a normal cycle?

HOW LONG IS A NORMAL CYCLE? The Normal cycle cleans dishes with 130-140℉ water and usually takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

How to reset a dishwasher?

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.

Why does my dishwasher take 7 hours?

Possible Problem: Clogs or Obstructions

Clogs in your self-cleaning filter, drain hose, or air vent can slow the fill and drain cycles, which means it will take your dishwasher a longer time to complete the wash cycle.

Why will my dishwasher not shut?

There are several reasons why your dishwasher's door may not be closing completely. Make sure you have placed the dishes inside properly and that the racks are pushed in all the way. You will also need to check if the dishwasher is leveled and if the door latch is in the correct position.

How do you know when your dishwasher is dying?

Experts say to check if dishes don't come out clean, glasses are cloudy, or the door doesn't latch.

How do you stop dishwasher while it's running?

Many modern dishwashers allow users to open the door once the cycle has started. These dishwashers will pause the washing cycle while the door is open, to ensure that water doesn't come flooding out! As such, it might take a few seconds for your dishwasher's door to unlatch.

Why does my GE dishwasher run so long?

It is normal for many Dishwashers to run for up to two hours or more under certain conditions. For example, the wash cycle time may be long on cycles such as Potscrubber, Heavy Wash, Pots and Pans, or AutoSense.

How to tell if a dishwasher timer is bad?

Electronic Timer is Faulty

A dishwasher's timer governs when power is sent to a particular function of the wash cycle. If you find your dishwasher not draining water properly or not starting as it should, it's possible the timer or its connection to the control panel has failed.

Why is my dishwasher running for 3 hours?

Why Does My Dishwasher Take 3 Hours? The reason your new dishwasher is taking 3 hours to finish a wash is likely because you have eco-mode activated! Eco-mode lowers the temperature of the water.

Does a dishwasher use a lot of electricity?

Most dishwashers use an average of 1,800 watts, and water rates depend on your local area, the time of year, and even the time of day. A dishwasher's base electricity usage is pretty cheap; for an 1,800-watt model and an hour-long load, you'll use approximately 1.8 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.

Can you interrupt a dishwasher cycle?

While you can stop a dishwasher mid-cycle, you should avoid doing so if you can. It takes more energy to restart and bring the heat back up. If you stop the cycle and add items after the detergent has been released, they may not get as clean.

Why does my dishwasher just keep running?

The timer motor is the mechanism that lets the rest of the washer know when it is time to start and stop the washing cycle. If the timer motor is on the fritz, it may need to be cleaned or replaced. A faulty timer motor is the most common cause of a dishwasher that keeps running.

Why is my dishwasher not turning off after cycle?

When the dishwasher won't turn off, the leak sensor is usually the cause. If the sensor detects moisture, the sensor will try to perpetually drain the dishwasher which prevents it from turning off. You can fix this by selecting a different cycle, looking for error codes, or checking for leaks.

What is the average life of a dishwasher?

Average Lifespan of Dishwashers

According to reputed appliance repair technicians and manufacturers, the average home dishwasher lasts between 10 to 15 years with regular use and proper maintenance. Even an appliance from the best dishwasher brands will only last 15 to 20 years at most.

Should I open the dishwasher door after the cycle?

After your dishwasher has finished a cycle, the central tub will be very warm and moist. As such, you should keep the door open after unloading it. This allows moisture to evaporate, and for the tub to cool down.

Can I go to bed with the dishwasher running?

But now she says that is "far from dramatic" and could save lives. She told Newsweek: "I wanted to share this story to warn people. Make sure your smoke detectors work and change the batteries. Don't run appliances like dishwashers, washers, or dryers at night while asleep.

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