Why Won’t My Dishwasher Turn On? | Las Cruces Appliance Repair

Finding out your dishwasher is broken is never going to be the best part of your day, especially if you have to deal with the expense of calling out an engineer as well as taking time off work to meet them just to pinpoint the problem.

Luckily it’s very feasible to determine and even resolve many dishwasher issues alone without needing to call for dishwasher repair, especially if you happen to are able to find a multimeter.

You might realize you can fix the problem quite easily alone, particularly if you are good at DIY, and if not at least you will have a better idea of the fault when you eventually do phone a repair man.

Things To Do If Your Dishwasher Won’t Start

In advance of considering a replacement machine there are a number of possible problems you should be able to troubleshoot without too much trouble.

Safety Warning: Never attempt repairs while your machine is plugged in.

Common Dishwasher Problems That Will Stop Your Dishwasher From Turning On

Before you begin checking your machine for issues make sure that your machine hasn’t been inadvertently switched off, plus that none of the switches on the circuit breaker have tripped.

At this point you can also check that the child lock isn’t on as well as try resetting your dishwasher.

You will most likely need the user manual for this due to the fact that models are all different but the child lock is usually quite easy to activate inadvertently. Likewise, if the dishwasher has lights but will not run, the answer could be as easy as resetting the cycle.

Once you have ruled out these issues it’s time for the real detective work to begin.

Have a look at the door latch or door latch switch.
Test the timer.
Check the selector switch.
Test the motor relay.
Check the thermal fuse.
Examine the drive motor.

To check these electrical components you will have to have a multimeter, or VOM (volt-ohm-milliammeter) to test the resistance and test the parts are operating as they should.

Checking the Door Latch as well as the Door Latch Switch

The first place to start is the door latches as well as door latch switches. Your machine is designed not to operate if the door latches are broken for obvious reasons. You wouldn’t want start the machine without meaning to with the door ajar.

A faulty switch will prevent your machine from starting and completing a cycle. You may wish to test the switch using a multimeter. The switch is generally situated under the front door panel or control panel.

Double check the machine is unplugged prior to taking off the door panel and testing for continuity to ensure you do not get an electric shock.

If the latches or switches are not working you will need to replace them.

Testing the Timer

If the door latch as well as door latch switch, are working as they should the next thing to check is the timer or electronic control.

This is the part of the machine that sends power to all the other parts the machine requires to operate including the motor, as well as the valves.

If your dishwasher has an electronic control as opposed to a mechanical timer then it could need to be tested while plugged in, this can be dangerous and should only be done by someone who is professionally trained.

Checking the Selector Switch

The selector switch is the component that chooses the program , it’s style and location will vary depending on the make or model of your machine. A faulty selector switch or even one that has not been fully pressed down could cause the dishwasher not to run.

You should be able to visually check to see if the buttons are depressing fully, or you could be required to disconnect the machine in order to have a look at the control panel to check the connections for continuity using a multimeter.

Checking the Motor Relay

The motor relay is another component that can result in your dishwasher not starting, thus this could be the issue if you have checked the control panel and so have discovered that there is power running to the motor.

To test if this is the case you need to locate the motor plus locate the relay that will usually be located next to it. This could then be removed plus checked with a multimeter and you may have to replace it.

Testing the Thermal Fuse

When you have checked all the above and are yet to find the issue the next part to check is the thermal fuse. This will only be found on some models and is there to protect the control board.

If it will need to be replaced in order to restore power to the control board.

Examining the Drive Motor

The final part of the machine you should be able to investigate that may prevent your dishwasher from working is the drive motor. This is the component that circulates the water to wash your dishes.

If you have tested the other parts yet still aren’t getting anywhere this could be the cause of the problem especially if you noticed a loud humming coming from the machine.

You can usually gain access to the motor by removing the panel at the bottom of the machine. Check it using a multimeter and replace if not working.

When to Get in Touch With an Engineer

If you don’t have a multimeter or are not confident in taking panels off your dishwasher and testing the electrical components then you will be better off calling an engineer sooner rather than later.

If you are happy to undertake the above checks then you may well be able to resolve the problem without assistance. But if you are unsure it might be easier to contact an engineer.

And check your warranty and your home cover as appliance repairs may be covered meaning the costs could not be as high as you think.