How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher That Won't Start

You load your dishwasher, add the detergent, press start, and... nothing happens. A dishwasher that refuses to start can be frustrating, but the fix might be simpler than you think.

Common Culprits

• Door Latch Issues: The dishwasher won't start if it thinks the door is open. Check the latch to make sure it's fully engaging.
• Power Supply: Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in and check your home's circuit breaker to ensure the switch hasn't tripped.
• Control Panel Problems: Sometimes the control board or touchpad can malfunction. Try resetting the dishwasher by unplugging it or turning off the breaker for a few minutes.

Need Professional Help?

If the door latch is broken, the thermal fuse is blown, or the control board is faulty, you'll likely need a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue safely.