Dishwasher Won’t Start – Common Causes and Solutions

A dishwasher is a convenient appliance that can save you a significant amount of time and effort. However, when it refuses to start, it can be a source of frustration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why your dishwasher might not start and provide step-by-step instructions on how to resolve these issues.

If you need to test an electrical component when making your repairs, more often than not, you will need a multimeter.

Dishwasher Won’t Start

1. Door Latch or Door Latch Switch

The door latch assembly is used to hold the door closed during the cycle to prevent water from leaking, and it also incorporates the door latch switches that supply power to the dishwasher controls. If the door cannot close properly to activate the door latch switches or if the switches are defective, then the dishwasher controls will not receive power and the dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Inspect the latch assembly including the switches. If the switches are being activated mechanically, remove the switches to check them for continuity. If your spring or dispenser door is broken, it will have to be replaced. And if the gasket around the dispenser is cracked, you’ll need to replace that too.

2. Timer or Electronic Control Module

The timer or electronic control module is used to supply power to the pump motor, water inlet valve, heater circuit and drain pump motor in the proper sequence in the cycle. If you do not hear the drain pump motor running, then you should look at the timer or electronic control module as a possible cause for why your dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Check the timer or electronic control module for continuity. If it is not functioning as it should, you will need a replacement timer or electronic control.

3. Selector Switch

The selector switch on a dishwasher is used to select different options for the individual cycles, such as heated dry and heated wash cycles. If the switch is not fully depressed, the dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Check to ensure that the switch is properly depressed. If it is, but the dishwasher still won’t start, you may need to replace the selector switch.

4. Motor Start Relay

Some models of dishwashers use a start relay on the main pump motor. The start relay is used to supply power to the motor start windings until the motor is running. If the relay is defective, the dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Check the motor start relay for continuity. If it is not functioning as it should, you will need a replacement motor start relay.

5. Thermal Fuse

Some models of electronically controlled dishwashers use a thermal fuse to protect the control board. The thermal fuse is normally located on the top side of the circuit board assembly with two wires attached to it. When the thermal fuse fails, the control board will not receive power and the dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Check the thermal fuse for continuity. If it is not functioning as it should, you will need a replacement thermal fuse.

6. Drive Motor

The drive motor is the part that circulates the water to wash the items inside the dishwasher. If the motor is defective, the dishwasher won’t start.

Solution: Check the drive motor for continuity. If it is not functioning as it should, you will need a replacement drive motor.

If you’ve tried all these suggestions and your dishwasher still won’t start, it might be time to call in the professionals. At Yorkshire Appliances, we offer expert dishwasher repair services to help you get your dishwasher back in top shape.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to ensuring your dishwasher continues to perform at its best. Keep your dishwasher clean, use the right amount and type of detergent, and ensure your water temperature is set correctly.

Contact Us for professional appliance repair services.

Read More about appliance maintenance and repair tips.

Happy DIY-ing!

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