If your Whirlpool dishwasher has power (lights are on) but won't start, the most common culprits are a faulty door latch, a locked control panel, or a glitched computer board.
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.
If your dishwasher starts but nothing happens (e.g., no filling, washing, or draining), the most likely culprit is a faulty door latch, a tripped power switch or breaker, a stuck float switch, or an active delay/child lock.
Whirlpool dishwashers do not have a dedicated physical "reset" button. Instead, you can reset the control board by pressing and holding the Start button for 3 seconds, or by performing a power reset by turning off the circuit breaker or unplugging the unit for 1 minute.
To hard reset a dishwasher, cut off its power to clear the control board's memory. Unplug the unit or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel. Wait at least 1 to 5 minutes before restoring power, then select your cycle and press Start.
Most dishwashers do not have a dedicated, standalone "Reset" button. Instead, you can usually reset the appliance by pressing and holding the Start/Reset or Cancel/Drain button for 3 to 5 seconds, or by performing a power cycle (shutting off the power).
The most common dishwasher fault is clogged or poor drainage. This occurs when food debris, grease, or foreign objects (like broken glass or food particles) block the primary drain filter, the drain hose, or the garbage disposal connection, leaving dirty, standing water at the bottom of the unit.
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.
If your dishwasher has power (lights are on) but won't start, the most common culprits are an unlatched door, an activated child lock, or a tripped delay timer. Clear, actionable troubleshooting steps can help you pinpoint the issue quickly:
A blown dishwasher fuse (often called a thermal fuse) generally causes the dishwasher to lose all electrical function.
Common Causes for a Dishwasher Not Starting
Check for Power: Confirm the power supply and circuit breaker status. Ensure the dishwasher is plugged in and receiving power. For hardwired units, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. Resetting a tripped breaker might solve the problem.
Most Whirlpool washers do not have a dedicated physical reset button. Instead, you can reset the machine by unplugging it for five minutes to clear the control board, or by performing a specific dial and button sequence (like holding the "Start/Cancel" button) to clear error codes and recalibrate the system.
Common problems for Whirlpool washers frequently involve failure to drain or spin, often caused by a faulty lid switch, broken belt, or clogged drain pump. Other frequent issues include excessive noise, water leaks, failure to start, and Error Codes indicating sensor or motor problems.
Whirlpool dishwashers typically last between 10 to 12 years with proper care and maintenance. Some heavily used or improperly maintained models may reach the end of their lifespan closer to 7–9 years, while gentle use can push them past the 12-year mark.
A Whirlpool dishwasher not starting is usually caused by the control lock being active, an unlatched door, a tripped circuit breaker, or a delayed wash setting.
Here are the most common signs that your washer's control board might need to be replaced:
If your dishwasher is not working, you may want to consider these potential causes:
The control board or electronic control unit is typically the most expensive part in a dishwasher. It manages all the dishwasher's functions, such as the wash cycles, water temperature, and the timing of the washing and drying processes.
Your dishwasher is likely failing if you notice pooled water at the end of a cycle, persistent burning smells, or dishes consistently coming out dirty or cold. These issues often point to failing motors, faulty heating elements, or blocked pumps.