If you have a Whirlpool dishwasher not turning on, you’re not alone. Many homeowners face this challenge at some point. While the immediate reaction might be to call for service, understanding some common causes can be your first step toward a solution. Let’s delve deeper into this issue to arm you with knowledge and possible fixes!
How to Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Turning On
It’s unsettling when a trusty appliance like a Whirlpool dishwasher goes silent. Pinpointing the cause is crucial, and while there are many potential reasons, familiarizing yourself with the primary culprits can illuminate a path forward.
Dishwasher Not Getting Power
Power is, understandably, the lifeblood of any electronic appliance. When your Whirlpool dishwasher doesn’t show signs of life, this is a natural place to start your investigation.
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: One of the most common reasons a dishwasher doesn’t turn on is due to a tripped circuit breaker. This can be caused by power surges or other temporary electrical issues. Head to your home’s electrical panel and locate the switch designated for the dishwasher. If it’s in the “off” position or stuck in between, turn it fully off and then back on.
Important Safety Note: For safety reasons, it’s crucial to avoid attempting to unplug the dishwasher or check the outlet. Tampering with these can result in serious injury due to potential electrical hazards. If your dishwasher still isn’t turning on after resetting the circuit breaker and following the steps below, it’s time to consult with a professional.
Double Check Dishwasher Settings
Believe it or not, sometimes it’s the simplest oversight that can make it seem like there’s a larger issue.
- Delay Wash: This feature, present in many modern dishwashers, sets the dishwasher to start after a specific amount of time. You might have unknowingly activated this feature. Check the control panel to see if there’s a delay set, and if so, you can wait or manually cancel it.
- Control Lock: To prevent unintentional operations (especially from curious children or accidental bumps), the control lock feature can be activated. Ensure it hasn’t been turned on inadvertently.
- Sleep Mode and Error Codes: Advanced features in some dishwashers include a sleep mode to save energy, and the system might display error codes when facing certain issues. A glance at your user manual can provide clarity and reset procedures.
Door Latch Is Not Engaged
Safety mechanisms are in place for a reason. If the door isn’t shut securely, the dishwasher intuitively won’t start.
- Dishes Blocking the Door: Overloading or improperly placing dishes can hinder the door’s closure. Re-arrange the contents, ensuring tall items or utensils aren’t obstructing the door’s path.
- Worn Out Latch: A latch endures a lot of wear over the years. If it feels loose or doesn’t click into place, it may be time to replace it. Look out for signs of visible wear or damage.
Insufficient Water Supply
For a dishwasher to run, it needs more than just power—it needs water.
- Water Supply Turned Off: This might sound simple, but it happens. The valve, typically located under the sink or behind the dishwasher, can be accidentally shut off. Ensure it’s turned to the open position.
- Kinked or Obstructed Inlet Hose: Movement, vibrations, or simple adjustments to your dishwasher can cause the water inlet hose to kink. Ensure there’s a clear, unobstructed path. Check the hose for visible blockages or debris, and if found, carefully remove them.
- Inlet Valve Failure: This small yet crucial component ensures water enters your dishwasher. If malfunctioning, the dishwasher remains dry. A bad valve can lead to unusual dishwasher noises, so listening for the sound of water during the fill cycle can help diagnose this.
Defective Dishwasher Parts
The internal components of your dishwasher are like the organs in a body—if one fails, it can halt the entire operation.
- Thermal Fuse: Designed to protect your dishwasher from overheating, a blown thermal fuse will stop the dishwasher dead in its tracks. It’s located in the control panel, and while replacement is a common DIY task, always prioritize safety and consult the user manual.
- Control Panel or Control Board Malfunctions: Essentially the dishwasher’s brain, if these components go awry, operations cease. Symptoms might include unresponsive buttons or erratic behavior. While tempting, this is an area best left to professionals due to its complexity.
Should these exploratory steps not yield a resolution, it’s a wise decision to turn to experts. Dave Smith Appliance Services stands ready to assist with professional dishwasher repair service you can trust.
