Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Turning On and How to Fix It

It can be incredibly frustrating when your dishwasher refuses to turn on. Suddenly, you're faced with a pile of dirty dishes and no easy way to clean them. But don't worry - in most cases, getting your dishwasher working again is well within the abilities of the average homeowner. By methodically troubleshooting a few key components, you can often diagnose and resolve the issue in just a few minutes.

First, don't panic. While a non-functioning dishwasher is inconvenient, the cause is likely something simple that you can fix yourself without calling in expensive appliance repair technicians. By staying calm and using a logical, systematic approach to appliance troubleshooting, you can save yourself time, money, and frustration.

Check Power Supply and Electrical Connections

The first thing to check when your dishwasher won't start is the power supply. Is the unit plugged in? Has a fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped? Inspect the electrical connections thoroughly before moving on to other components.

Check Breaker or Fuse Box

Many dishwasher problems can be traced back to the breaker or fuse box. If a breaker has tripped, it will be flipped to the "Off" position. Simply flip it back to "On" to restore power to the dishwasher circuit. For a fuse box, look for any blown fuses and unscrew to replace. Always make sure to use replacement fuses with the same amperage rating.

Keep in mind that an overloaded circuit can sometimes trip a breaker or blow a fuse intermittently. If the dishwasher is on a circuit with other high-wattage appliances like a refrigerator or electric stove, consider redistributing the load if you experience repeated tripping issues.

Ensure Dishwasher Is Plugged In

It may sound obvious, but sometimes the dishwasher power cord can come loose from the outlet, especially in high traffic areas. Check the connection at the dishwasher itself and at the wall outlet. Push the plug firmly into the outlet to secure a snug fit.

Also inspect the plug prongs and electrical contacts in the outlet for signs of burning, discoloration or deformation which may indicate a faulty connection. Use a outlet tester to confirm power flow.

Inspect Power Cord

While inspecting the power connection, take a moment to examine the power cord itself. Look for any cuts, exposed wires, or crimping that could indicate damage. Damaged power cords are a fire hazard, so you may need to replace the cord or call an appliance technician if you find any defects.

Pay particular attention to where the cord connects to the dishwasher chassis as this is a common failure point. Also, check nearby walls and floors for any signs of electrical arcing which can indicate cord damage.

Test the Door Latch

Dishwashers have a safety feature that prevents them from running if the door is not securely latched. Over time, the door latch mechanism can wear out or become damaged. As a result, the dishwasher doesn't realize the door is closed and therefore won't start running.

Try Pressing on the Door

Start by pressing firmly on the door to make sure it clicks and latches into place. Sometimes minor adjustments can engage the latch. Push on the door using steady, even pressure while trying to start the machine.

Check for loose or missing screws around the door latch assembly. Tightening loose screws or replacing missing ones can sometimes restore correct latch function if components have shifted.

Check for Obstructions

Inspect the door seal and area around the latch for any obstructions. Built-up food debris, dirt, or broken seal pieces could be blocking the latch. Use a toothpick to gently clean around the latch and remove any debris.

Also check the door strike area (where the door seals against the tub) for dents or damage that could prevent proper closure. Straighten any bent strike parts with pliers.

Check Control Panel and Buttons

The dishwasher control panel houses the electronics that control the machine's functions. Issues with the control panel or buttons can mimic a power supply problem.

Try Resetting Dishwasher

For digital control panels, an electronic reset may be required. Consult your owner's manual for model-specific reset instructions. Many models have a reset sequence using program buttons you can perform.

If the display is unresponsive, power cycle the dishwasher, then press and hold the start and cancel buttons simultaneously for 10-15 seconds. This forces a reboot which can clear glitched software.

Test Control Buttons

Press each button and verify functionality. Buttons that stick, jam, or no longer spring back can cause problems. Try pressing buttons multiple times to break through debris.

Use a multimeter on the button contacts to check for continuity when pressed. This will isolate mechanical button issues from deeper control panel problems.

Diagnose Possible Control Board Failure

The control board (sometimes called the main electronic control board) is the "computer brain" of your dishwasher. It regulates cycles, settings, and all electric components. Control board issues can mimic power failures.

Notice No Lights on Panel

When the control board fails, it may not send voltage to the control panel. It's common for all lights and displays to be dark if the board is defective. Press buttons and cycle through modes to isolate panel issues from main board malfunctions.

Unusual Beeping May Occur

Some control boards beep or flash error codes when they malfunction. Check your owner's manual for decodes, or count the number of beeps and research the code online. Write down any error code patterns you observe.

May Require Control Board Replacement

If diagnostics confirm control board failure, replacement is required. Locate model-specific replacement boards online or through an appliance parts retailer. Then schedule a technician for installation, unless you're comfortable DIY.

When installing a new control board, take pictures of all wire connections for reference. Also double check that all connector pins line up with the replacement part.

Verify Water Supply and Float Switch

Dishwashers can't run without adequate water supply. Clogged valves or float switch problems are common water-related issues.

Check Inlet Valve Screens

Hard water deposits, dirt, and debris clog the inlet valve screens. Turn off water supply, unscrew inlet hoses, and remove screens. Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. Replace screens if mesh is torn or damaged.

Test Float Switch with Multimeter

The float switch stops the cycle when it doesn't detect water. Use a multimeter to check for continuity with dishwasher unplugged. You should get a closed circuit reading.

Remove the float switch and inspect it for any cracks as well as mineral deposits that could affect buoyancy. Clean or replace the float if any damage is found.

Check Heating Element and Thermistor

Dishwasher heating elements heat water during cycles to aid cleaning. Thermistors regulate temperature. Failure of either part can prevent operation.

Test Heating Element Resistance

Use a multimeter to check heating element resistance. Refer to your model's service manual for optimal reading range. Little to no resistance indicates a bad heating element.