If your dishwasher won’t turn on, common causes include power issues, faulty door latches, or a malfunctioning control board. Learn how to troubleshoot and when to call a professional for help.
Written by Andrew Shevchenko
Contributing Writer
Updated August 07, 2024
f you’re faced with a dishwasher that refuses to turn on, it can be frustrating. At Major at Appliance Repair, we frequently encounter this issue, and the causes often vary. Whether you’re dealing with a power issue or an internal malfunction, here are some common reasons your dishwasher might not turn on and what you can do about it.
One of the most straightforward causes of a dishwasher not turning on is a lack of power. Here’s what to check:
• Circuit Breaker: If the circuit breaker has tripped, your dishwasher won’t receive power. Check your home’s electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers.
• Power Cord: Ensure that the dishwasher is properly plugged in. Sometimes the plug can become loose, or the outlet may be faulty.
Fix: Verify that the outlet is functioning by plugging in another appliance. If the breaker is tripped, reset it, and if the outlet seems faulty, consult an electrician.
For safety reasons, most dishwashers won’t start unless the door is securely latched. If the door latch is broken or not fully engaged, the dishwasher won’t turn on.
Fix: Check to ensure the door is completely closed and latched. If it feels loose or doesn’t click into place, the latch or the door switch may need replacing.
Modern dishwashers have control panels that might fail or lock up. If there’s an issue with the control board, it may not send the necessary signals to start the cycle.
Fix: Try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power at the breaker for 5 minutes and turning it back on. If the control panel still doesn’t work, it may need to be replaced.
The thermal fuse acts as a safety mechanism that prevents overheating. If this fuse blows, it cuts off power to the dishwasher.
Fix: A blown thermal fuse needs to be replaced, which usually requires opening the control panel. This repair is best handled by a professional.
The door switch ensures the dishwasher operates only when the door is closed. If the switch is faulty, the dishwasher may not receive the signal to start.
Fix: You’ll need a multimeter to test the door switch for continuity. If it’s defective, replacing the switch will restore the function.
If your dishwasher has been making odd noises before failing to turn on, the motor could be the issue. A burnt-out motor won’t start or will shut off unexpectedly.
Fix: Replacing a dishwasher motor is a complex task and requires professional assistance. Call a qualified technician to handle this repair.
If your dishwasher won’t turn on, the solution could be as simple as resetting a tripped breaker or as complex as replacing a motor. At Major at Appliance Repair, we have the experience to quickly diagnose and fix any issues to get your appliance back up and running. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or need professional help, contact us for reliable dishwasher repair services!
Why won’t my dishwasher turn on even though it’s plugged in?
This could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty outlet. Make sure the breaker hasn’t tripped and test the outlet by plugging in another appliance.
Could a broken door latch prevent my dishwasher from starting?
Yes, a faulty door latch or door switch can prevent the dishwasher from turning on as it won’t sense that the door is properly closed.
How do I reset my dishwasher if it won’t turn on?
Try turning off the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 5 minutes and then turn it back on. If the issue persists, the control board may be malfunctioning.
Feel free to ask our specialist any questions you may have.
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