Dishwasher Not Starting: List of Solutions

Imagine finishing a big family dinner and then loading all the dirty dishes, cutlery and glasses into the dishwasher only to discover that it won’t start. Not to worry, though, as there are usually a few common culprits and some are relatively easy fixes.

This article will help you assess potential reasons as to why your dishwasher isn’t operating as intended, and provide some direction on what to do if the problem persists.

Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Working

If your dishwasher is not working, you may want to consider these potential causes:

  • The control lock is on
  • The dishwasher is in sleep mode
  • The delayed wash option was accidentally selected
  • The dishwasher door is not completely closed and latched
  • The water supply was turned off
  • The power needs to be cycled to reset the dishwasher

Let’s take a closer look at each of these to help you determine if one may be the root of why your dishwasher isn’t working.

What is the Control Lock?

The control lock on a dishwasher locks the controls to prevent accidental use. It can be used whether the dishwasher is on or off. This can be especially useful for households with children whose busy hands like to touch buttons.

A opened fully-integrated dishwasher with the control panel on top of the door. A person is about to press a button. The time shows: 2:53. Inside the dishwasher is a white ceramic jug and other items. A opened fully-integrated dishwasher with the control panel on top of the door. A person is about to press a button. The time shows: 2:53. Inside the dishwasher is a white ceramic jug and other items.
PRO TIP

Make sure you press the actual button to activate the control lock, not where it says, "Hold 3 sec".

Is the Control Lock Turned On?

Unintended use can cause a dishwasher to not work. Use the control lock to safeguard against unintended use, including unintended cycle or option changes mid-cycle.

The control lock light will be on for only a short amount of time, alerting you that the feature is activated. During this time, all the buttons will be disabled. If you press a button while the controls are locked, the light will flash three times. To turn off the control lock, simply press and hold the lock button for four seconds. The lock light should turn off.

Learn more about the control lock and how to use it here.

PRO TIP

The door can still be opened or closed while the controls are locked.

Is the Dishwasher in Sleep Mode?

You will find a sleep mode function on certain models.You can disable sleep mode by pressing either START/RESUME or CANCEL. You may need to open and close the door to turn off the control lock before disabling sleep mode.

Has a Delay Wash Option Been Selected?

A delay wash option lets you run your dishwasher at a later time. This means you can wash a load while you are asleep or while you’re out or, if you wish, during off-peak electrical hours. If this option is selected, the dishwasher will start operating once the delay time is reached.

To turn delay wash on or off:

  1. Press CANCEL/DRAIN to cancel the delay.
  2. Press START/RESUME to start the cycle.

Is the Door Completely Closed and Latched?

The dishwasher door must be closed and latched for the appliance to work. A door may not be properly latched if a lower dish rack was installed backward.

A hand on the front of a dishwasher with a towel rack. Dishwasher is under granite countertops. On the counter is a basket filled with fruit. In the background is a wall oven and microwave combination unit. A hand on the front of a dishwasher with a towel rack. Dishwasher is under granite countertops. On the counter is a basket filled with fruit. In the background is a wall oven and microwave combination unit.

Is the Water Supply Turned on to the Dishwasher?

Sometimes a dishwasher isn’t working because the water supply is off. Make sure the water supply for the dishwasher is on.

Consult the installation instructions for your specific model if you are unsure how to inspect this.

To download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.

Inside a dishwasher: Silver spray jets release streams of water upwards. Water pools on the bottom of the dishwasher. Inside a dishwasher: Silver spray jets release streams of water upwards. Water pools on the bottom of the dishwasher.

Here’s How to Reset Your Dishwasher

Sometimes a dishwasher just needs a good reset.

To reset your dishwasher control, begin by locating the power source your dishwasher uses.

  1. If your dishwasher is plugged into an outlet, not connected to the circuit breaker or electrical panel, unplug it for one minute and then plug it back in.
  2. If the dishwasher is hardwired to the power supply, you need to first turn the breaker off at the home electrical panel that powers the dishwasher for one minute. Then, turn the breaker back on.

If your dishwasher isn’t working, assess the situation and then determine if some of the causes listed in this guide may be at fault. If you’re unsure, it’s recommended to book a service appointment to get it up and running as soon as possible.

If you require help with starting your dishwasher or have any questions, please call KitchenAid or schedule a service.

Contact KitchenAid