Autumn Deals & Coupon Codes for 2023
Technicians Available Now: November 29
All Appliance Service
1-888-242-0777 arrow_down
formRequest Service
Technicians Available Now: November 29

Dishwasher Won’t Start

Gaya Chudnovski

Technically Reviewed by Gaya Chudnovski on Nov 14, 2023 | Written by Olga Larina

Authorized repair service for most home appliance manufactures

When a dishwasher doesn’t start, it can be attributed to various factors. Common causes include a malfunctioning door latch or switch, a defective timer or electronic control, a tripped circuit breaker, or issues with the power supply. Additionally, problems with the thermal fuse, motor, or pump can also prevent the dishwasher from initiating its cycle. Identifying the specific issue often requires a systematic approach to troubleshooting and sometimes consulting the appliance’s user manual for guidance on potential solutions.

Please read this article to learn about the most common parts used to fix a dishwasher that will not start and what you can do about it.

Fixing A Dishwasher That Won’t Start

When a dishwasher doesn’t start, you will find it the most frustrating thing to ever occur in the kitchen. A serviceman will also come at a price you had probably not budgeted for, and it may force you to do the repairs yourself. In this article, you will find the most common parts used to fix a dishwasher that will not function properly. The information will play a vital role in assisting you in knowing how to fix the dysfunctional part of the dishwasher. At the same time, remember that dishwasher repair is fundamental to prevent further destruction.

In case a dishwasher is not starting, the problem could be the switches or door latch. The door latch is assembled to close the door tightly during circulation to prevent water spillage. If it’s proving difficult for the door to close, it will be impossible for the dishwasher controls to receive power; hence, the washer will not start. This is a sign that the latch assembly, such as the switches, needs to be inspected, as they could be defective.

Note that the door latch is found behind the inner door panel

Steps for opening the door latch

  1. Remove the screws used for securing the inner door panel
  2. Separate the outer and inner door
  3. Since the door latch has two switches wired in a series, activate the switches by manually putting the catch into the latch assembly.
  4. If both switches are working, remove power from the appliance, then commence the repairs.

Check the timer or electronic control after the door latch starts functioning properly and the dishwasher fails. The first step when using a dishwasher is removing stagnant water in the tub. If the drain pump motor is not producing sound when running, check the timer to ascertain it is not the cause. The timer uses some electrical contacts that are motioned by a small motor, all inside the timer housing. The timer contacts should also be examined to determine which contacts control the inlet valve circuits. Always switch off power from the appliances before embarking on these repairs. This is a live voltage check that only an expert should carry out.

Fix Appliances Repair Dishwasher

A selector switch is used to determine the removal of hot or cold water as per the preference of the person washing the dishes. This switch sometimes causes the dishwasher not to start if it is defective. Ensure the switch is properly depressed before starting disassembling. With the competition in this industry, many dishwasher models have come up, and some use a starter relay on the main pump. Sometimes, it could be the reason a dishwasher is not starting. Therefore, you can manually activate it for continuity by turning it upside down and allowing the plunger to drop.

Among other things that could cause the dishwasher not to start are a thermal fuse and a drive motor. After identifying most of the things that could cause a dishwasher to malfunction, you will figure out the nature of the repair required. And please read our last article about what to do if the dishwasher won’t turn on.

Date of page creation: September 27, 2017

Page update date: November 14, 2023

fixappliance

What Our Customers Say About Us

Discover how Fix Appliances maintains a 5-star service record since day one.

Our technician Oleg was great. He was on time and even called before his arrival. He was able to diagnosis the problem and make the repairs all in one visit which was very appreciated. He not only fixed the problems, but talked me through what was wrong and how it needed to be repaired. He also spent time to show me how to properly maintain the dryer myself. He was very tidy leaving no mess behind. I would highly recommend Fix Appliances to anyone.

rating Cynthia, New Tecumseth, ON
Cynthia, New Tecumseth, ON
Electric Dryer, Maintenance due to previous fire
April 09, 2019

Repair of water dispenser on fridge. Original part had worn out. Diagnosis was fast and accurate and the repair was carried out quickly.

rating Devin Moggy,
Devin Moggy,
Fridge repair
March 29, 2019

More Problems & Solutions from Our Blog

Miele Dishwasher Circulation Pump Repair Issues

Miele Dishwasher Circulation Pump Repair Issues

DISHWASHER / REQUEST SERVICE / TIPS

Being a German manufacturer of high-end domestic appliances and commercial equipment, headquartered in the city of Gü...

Read
15 Things You Should Never Put in a Dishwasher

15 Things You Should Never Put in a Dishwasher

DISHWASHER / REQUEST SERVICE / TIPS

The dishwasher is one of the best inventions in the appliances world, and it is a real kitchen workhorse. The truth i...

Read
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? Helpful Tips

Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? Helpful Tips

DISHWASHER / REQUEST SERVICE / TIPS

In this article… Troubleshooting tips The Interior Is Dirty Extra Dirty Dishes Low Water Temperature ...

Read