4 Ways to Fix a Dishwasher That Won’t Start

When a dishwasher refuses to start, it can throw a wrench into any homeowner’s daily routine. Suddenly, the convenience of automated dish cleaning vanishes, leaving a sink full of dirty dishes and a puzzled homeowner. Before resorting to hand-washing or calling in a professional, you can take several troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the issue. This guide will explore the most common reasons why a dishwasher won’t start, provide step-by-step instructions for diagnosing problems, and offer guidance on when you should call expert help. By following these tips, homeowners can save time, money, and frustration when faced with a non-responsive dishwasher.

Common Reasons Why a Dishwasher Won’t Start

When a dishwasher fails to start, several culprits could be to blame. Understanding these potential issues is the first step in troubleshooting the problem. The most common reasons a dishwasher might not start are:

• Power supply issues
• Broken door latch
• A defective timer switch
• A blown thermal fuse
• Malfunctioning electronic control board

Lets take a look at how you can troubleshoot these issues.

Power Supply Issues

One of the most frequent causes of a non-starting dishwasher is a lack of power. That can occur for various reasons, such as a tripped GFCI outlet, a tripped circuit breaker, or a damaged power cord. To remedy a power supply issue, check the GFCI outlet to see if it has tripped. Look for a reset button on the outlet that may be poking out or displaying a yellow light. Press the reset button to resolve the issue. 

If the GFCI outlet is not tripped, the circuit breaker may have tripped instead. Look inside the breaker box to see if the kitchen circuit has tripped. If the lever is in the middle, flip it all the way off and then back on to reset the breaker. If it is off, flip it back on.

If neither of these methods is successful in restoring power, pull the dishwasher out and look at its power cord for visible damage. Also, make sure that it is plugged into the outlet and doesn’t feel loose. 

If power supply issues persist after checking these points and all the lights are off on the top or front digital control panel, it may be time to consult an electrician for further diagnosis and repair.

Broken Door Latch

The door latch is a crucial safety mechanism that ensures the dishwasher won’t run with an open door and helps create a tight seal. A broken latch can prevent the machine from starting. If a broken door latch is suspected, clean the latch area to remove any soap residue or food debris that may be blocking it. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, you may need to replace the broken door latch. 

Diagnose: You must remove the latch to test if it’s bad. Do that by following the steps below. Once the latch is out, switch your multimeter to Rx1 and touch the terminals on the switch using the probes. If it doesn’t read near 0, you must replace the latch.

Repair: To replace a broken door latch switch assembly on your dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Buy a new door latch assembly, put on insulated rubber work gloves, and grab your Torx screwdriver set.
2. Turn off the breaker for the kitchen or unplug the unit from the wall.
3. Use the screwdriver to remove the Torx screws around the inner edge of the door panel.
4. Close the dishwasher door almost all the way and gently pull the outer door panel away from the machine. Disconnect the wire harness for the user control interface and set the outer panel to the side.
5. Unplug the wiring harness for the latch assembly and press the locking tabs upward while pulling the latch out.
6. Install the new door latch assembly by pushing it into place, setting the locking tabs, and plugging in the wire harness.
7. Reinstall the door by reconnecting the user control wiring harness, reattaching the outer panel, and screwing the Torx screws back into the inner door panel.
8. Turn the power back on and test your dishwasher to confirm that replacing the latch has fixed the issue. 

Defective Timer Switch

The timer switch controls the duration of each cycle phase. If it’s faulty, the dishwasher may not start or may get stuck on certain settings. When you press start, the switch should activate the draining phase before moving on to filling, washing, rinsing, and draining yet again. So, if you don’t hear the drain pump immediately kick on, you likely have a bad timer control switch. Other signs of a bad timer include getting stuck on certain cycle settings, failing to display the remaining time, or emitting a buzzing or clicking noise.

Diagnose: As with the latch, you must remove the timer switch to test it by following steps one to seven below. Once it’s out, put your multimeter on Rx1000 and press the probes to the contacts. Most switches will read in the 2,000 to 3,500 range, but check the wiring diagram and troubleshooting instructions for your dishwasher model if you’re unsure. If it’s outside the target range, it’s time to replace the switch.

Repair: The timer switch is relatively simple to replace. Follow these steps:

1. Buy a new timer switch for your dishwasher model, put on insulated rubber gloves, and grab your Torx screwdriver set.
2. Turn off the breaker for the kitchen or unplug the dishwasher.
3. Remove the timer knob by pulling it away from the machine firmly.
4. Use your Torx screwdriver set to remove the screws along the inner edge of the dishwasher door.
5. Close the dishwasher door and remove the outer door panel, disconnecting any wiring harnesses connecting the two pieces.
6. Unplug the wire harness from the old timer switch, remove the screws on the door, and slide it out.
7. Turn the old switch over and remove the timer cam by pulling it away from the switch by hand.
8. Install the new timer switch by pressing the cam onto the back, sliding it into place, and screwing it down. Reconnect the wiring harness.
9. Reassemble the dishwasher door panel and test the machine to see if it starts up.

Blown Thermal Fuse

Some dishwasher models have a thermal fuse (much like a clothes dryer’s thermal fuse) that protects the electronic control module from overheating. When the fuse blows, the dishwasher will shut down and won’t restart until you replace the blown fuse. If you try to run it, the machine will appear to not get any power at all.

Diagnose: You must access the thermal fuse to test if it’s working by following steps one to seven below. Set your multimeter to Rx1 and touch each probe to the contacts on the fuse. If it doesn’t read near 0, you need to replace it.

Repair: To replace the thermal fuse, follow this procedure:

1. Buy a new thermal fuse for your dishwasher model and wear insulated rubber work gloves.
2. Grab your tools: a Torx screwdriver set, needle-nose pliers, a small flathead screwdriver, and a paper clip.
3. Turn off the breaker for the kitchen or unplug your dishwasher from the wall.
4. Remove the Torx screws around the inner edge of the door panel.
5. Close the dishwasher door and remove the front panel.
6. Remove the cover over the control board by disengaging the locking tabs and pulling it out.
7. Disconnect the two wires from the thermal fuse and use your needle-nose pliers to pull the old fuse off the board. If the fuse has locking tabs, pry them up with a small flathead screwdriver while you pull on it.
8. Snap the new fuse assembly into place.
9. Trace the wire from the thermal fuse to the wiring harness near the end of the control board. Release the wire by sliding the end of the paperclip into the terminal to depress the locking tab while firmly pulling the wire out the other side.
10. Install the new wire by sliding it into the wiring harness with the locking tabs facing the correct direction. Reconnect the wiring harness to the board.
11. Trace the longer fuse wire to the other end of the control board. Pop the old one off with needle-nose pliers and plug in the new one. Use a wire tie to fasten it to the rest of the wiring.
12. Attach the other ends of the two wires to the fuse.
13. Reinstall the control board cover, reassemble the dishwasher door, and test the system to see if it turns on.

Malfunctioning Electronic Control Board

A malfunctioning electronic control board can also cause a dishwasher not to start. The control board is the brain of the dishwasher, managing all of the electronic functions. If it becomes defective, multiple issues can arise, including the system failing to power on. 

Locate the control board according to the dishwasher’s manufacturer’s guidelines. Inspect the board for visible damage or burnt components, and then use a multimeter to test various connections on the board. If you find any issues during the process, replace the control board.

After replacing the control board, perform a test to see if the dishwasher now powers on. If it fails to turn on or you do not have the proper tools or knowledge to conduct this portion, consult an electrician, plumber, or appliance repair specialist for further diagnosis.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Dishwasher That Won’t Turn On

When faced with a dishwasher that won’t start, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and potentially resolve the issue:

1. Check the power supply: Ensure the dishwasher is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
2. Inspect the door latch: Make sure the door is closing properly and the latch engages. Clean any debris that might be preventing proper closure.
3. Examine the control panel: Look for any error codes or flashing lights that might indicate a specific problem.
4. Reset the dishwasher: Unplug the unit or turn off the circuit breaker for at least one minute, then restore power to see if this resolves the issue.
5. Check for a child lock feature: Some models have a child safety lock that can prevent the dishwasher from starting. Consult the owner’s manual to learn how to deactivate this feature.
6. Listen for unusual sounds: Sometimes, unusual sounds can give a clue as to what might be wrong, like a stuck motor or blocked spray arms.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be time to delve deeper into specific component troubleshooting or consider professional assistance.

When to Call a Professional

You can resolve many dishwasher issues through basic DIY troubleshooting, but sometimes you need professional help. Consider calling a qualified plumber or appliance repair professional if the troubleshooting steps do not rectify the issue or you are uncomfortable performing the repairs yourself.

It’s also best to turn to a qualified professional if you spot signs of electrical problems, such as burning smells or sparks, water leakage, or if you suspect damage to an internal component. 

Technicians can diagnose and repair more complex issues, such as faulty motor start relays or worn-out drive motors. They also have the expertise to handle electrical components safely.

Preventing Future Dishwasher Issues

Prevention is crucial to minimize the chances of encountering problems with a dishwasher in the future. For starters, clean the dishwasher on a monthly basis, including the filter and spray arms. Be cautious of overloading the dishwasher, which can strain its components, or starting the cycle with cold water, as this places strain on the heating element. Additionally, re-evaluate the detergent that you are using and verify that it is appropriate for your dishwasher model and water hardness level. As you continue to use your dishwasher, pay attention to minor issues that can escalate into more significant problems over time, such as clogs in the drainage system, leaks, strange noises, or odors. 

Considering a Home Warranty

For homeowners concerned about unexpected appliance repairs, a home warranty can provide peace of mind. These plans can help cover the costs of repairs or replacements for major home appliances, including dishwashers. When considering a home warranty, research different providers and carefully review coverage options to find a plan that best suits individual needs and budgets.

Benefits of a Home Warranty

Home warranties can save homeowners money by covering expensive repairs or replacements. To reduce the hassle of finding a repair technician, they often lean on a network of trusted service providers, and some plans offer broad coverage that includes multiple appliances or systems within the home. Knowing that you have this coverage in place can alleviate the stress and financial burden associated with unexpected appliance malfunctions. 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

Before you buy a home warranty plan, research to make sure the plan is right for your needs. Compare the various plans and providers to see what they cover and what they don’t cover. Ask about any caps on payouts for specific repairs and additional fees that may be associated with service visits and repairs.

You have many home warranty options, but considering these factors along with pricing should allow you to narrow down which provider and specific plan is best for your home and budget. 

To make the most of this protective measure, we recommend considering the Kenmore Appliance Warranty coverage. Kenmore is renowned for its quality appliances, and its warranty service upholds the same standard of excellence. By opting for a coverage plan, you not only ensure the longevity of your appliances but also gain peace of mind, knowing that if issues do arise, the financial impact can be far less daunting.

Final Thoughts About Dishwashers That Won’t Start

A dishwasher that won’t start can be a frustrating experience. But with the right approach, you can resolve many issues without professional help. By understanding common causes, following troubleshooting steps, and knowing when to call in experts, homeowners can tackle this problem efficiently.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to minor issues can prevent many problems from ever occurring. Whether you choose to DIY the dishwasher repair or seek professional assistance, the goal is to get that dishwasher humming again, returning the kitchen to its fully functional state.