Dishwasher dispenser not working
Common reasons your dishwasher dispenser not working
The most common reasons your dishwasher dispenser is not working are a broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a clogged water valve.
46% of the time it's the
Detergent Dispenser
31% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
13% of the time it's the
Water Valve
10% of the time it's the
Something else
Schedule your dishwasher repair now!
We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 19.7M dishwashers. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.
Common dishwasher repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.
Detergent Dispenser Replacement
If the detergent dispenser isn't working, it might be due to an internal issue that's stopping it from opening. Inside the detergent dispenser, there's a switch that releases the latch, allowing a spring to snap the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, faulty switch, or defective latch can prevent the dispenser from working. It's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser if it's not working properly.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the dishwasher detergent dispenser isn't working, it may be due to a faulty electronic control board. The internal logic and relays in the electronic control board are responsible for sending electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser, which opens the lid latch and dispenses the detergent. If the internal logic becomes corrupted or the relays fail, it can prevent the dispenser from working properly. It's a good idea to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert inspect the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it's found to be defective.
Water Valve Replacement
If the detergent dispenser isn't working, it might have a problem inside that's stopping it from opening. There's a switch inside the detergent dispenser that releases the latch, so a spring can snap the lid open during the cycle. If the spring is broken, the switch doesn't work properly, or the latch is defective, the dispenser won't work. When the detergent dispenser isn't working, it's best to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace it.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher dispenser not working issue
Fixing a dispenser not working problem
Fixing most issues with the dispenser not working typically requires replacing either the detergent dispenser or the water valve. However, since there are many potential causes, a thorough diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important for understanding the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services recommends these steps for fixing a dispenser that is not working
If the dishwasher dispenser isn't working, there could be several reasons why. To prevent replacing parts that aren't necessary, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to find out what's causing the problem. Our technicians have experience diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.
What to watch for with a dishwasher dispenser not working diagnosis
Figuring out issues with modern appliances without the right knowledge and training can be hard. If you don't use the right diagnostic techniques, trying to fix your dishwasher problem might mean just guessing and swapping out parts. Appliances, especially in the last decade, have gotten very advanced, with lots of electronic parts that are tricky to test. Doing repairs yourself on the latest appliance models is getting much harder.
What our customers say about us
With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it
Thorough
James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Repair Dishwasher Resources
Find out how to fix a dishwasher not filling with water.
Learn simple checks and advanced troubleshooting for a dishwasher that won't drain.
Learn about the costs of replacing your dishwasher in 2024 and get expert advice on dishwasher replacement from Sears Home Services.
Learn how to unclog a Bosch dishwasher with our step-by-step guide. Discover practical tips for preventing future drainage issues for optimal performance.
Glossary Terms
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
A furnace limit switch is a safety device in a furnace that monitors the temperature of the air passing over the heat exchanger. It shuts off the burner if the air becomes too hot, preventing overheating and potential damage to the furnace or your home.
A humidifier is a device designed to increase humidity levels in a single room or an entire building, improving air quality and comfort.
A generator stator is the stationary part of a generator that, together with the moving rotor, plays a crucial role in electricity generation. It consists of coils where electric power is produced through electromagnetic induction.
Common dishwasher symptoms to look out for
- Dishwasher won't wash
- Dishwasher won't turn off
- Dishwasher won't start cycle
- Dishwasher won't drain
- Dishwasher not working
- Dishwasher not washing
- Dishwasher not turning on
- Dishwasher not starting
- Dishwasher not spinning
- Dishwasher not heating
- Dishwasher not filling
- Dishwasher not drying
- Dishwasher not draining properly
- Dishwasher not draining
- Dishwasher not cleaning bottom rack
- Dishwasher noisy
- Dishwasher no water
- Dishwasher no power
- Dishwasher no heat
- Dishwasher lights flashing and will not start
- Dishwasher light not working
- Dishwasher leaks water
- Dishwasher leaking water
- Dishwasher leaking from bottom
- Dishwasher leaking
- Dishwasher door not closing
- Dishwasher display not working
- Dishwasher detergent not dispensing
- Dishwasher burning smell