So, you’re all set to run a load of dishes, you press the start button, and… nothing. Your Whirlpool dishwasher is refusing to start, and suddenly, you’re left wondering if you’ll have to go back to hand-washing (gasp!). Before you start soaking those plates in the sink, let’s troubleshoot the issue together.
1. Check the Power Source
First things first—let’s make sure your dishwasher is actually getting power. It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often this is the culprit.
- Is it plugged in? A loose power cord can cause your dishwasher to appear dead.
- Check your circuit breaker. A tripped breaker could be cutting off electricity.
- Try another appliance in the same outlet to rule out an electrical issue.
If your dishwasher still won’t turn on, let’s move on to the next step.
2. Inspect the Door Latch
Your Whirlpool dishwasher has a safety mechanism that prevents it from starting if the door isn’t fully closed.
- Make sure the door is shut tightly. Give it a firm push to ensure it’s latched properly.
- Inspect the latch itself. If it’s broken or misaligned, your dishwasher won’t recognize that the door is closed.
- If you notice wear and tear, you might need to replace the latch—an easy and inexpensive fix.
3. Control Lock is On
Did you accidentally lock your control panel? Many Whirlpool dishwashers have a “Control Lock” or “Child Lock” feature that prevents accidental starts.
- Look for a lock symbol or a light on the control panel.
- To disable it, press and hold the designated button (often the “Heated Dry” or “Control Lock” button) for 3-5 seconds.
- If the lock light turns off, you’re back in business!
4. Delayed Start is Activated
Some models allow you to schedule a delayed start, which means the dishwasher might not run immediately after you press the button.
- Check if the delay start light is on.
- If it is, cancel it by holding the “Cancel” or “Start/Reset” button.
5. Faulty Door Switch
Even if the door looks closed, a faulty door switch might be tricking the dishwasher into thinking it’s open.
- Try pressing the door closed firmly while starting the cycle.
- If this temporarily solves the issue, you might need to replace the door switch.
6. Issues with the Control Panel or Touchpad
If none of the above steps work, there could be a problem with the control panel itself.
- Check if the buttons respond. If they’re unresponsive, there might be a loose connection.
- Unplug the dishwasher for a few minutes, then plug it back in—this can sometimes reset the control panel.
- If some buttons work but others don’t, your touchpad might need to be replaced.
7. Water Supply Problems
No water, no washing! If the dishwasher isn’t filling with water, it won’t start.
- Make sure the water supply valve (usually under the sink) is turned on.
- Check the inlet hose for kinks or blockages.
- A clogged filter screen could also prevent water from flowing in.
8. Broken or Burnt-Out Components
If you’ve tried everything and your dishwasher still won’t start, you might be dealing with a faulty part, such as:
- Blown thermal fuse – If the fuse has blown, it will cut power to the dishwasher.
- Bad motor or starter relay – A malfunctioning motor may prevent the dishwasher from running.
- Defective electronic control board – If all else fails, the main control board might need replacing.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re not comfortable taking apart your dishwasher or suspect an electrical issue, it might be time to call in a pro. Whirlpool’s customer service or a local appliance repair technician can help diagnose and fix the issue quickly.
The Bottom Line
Before you panic (or start washing dishes by hand), run through these troubleshooting steps. Many issues are simple to fix and don’t require professional help. Hopefully, with a few quick checks, your Whirlpool dishwasher will be back to making your life easier in no time!