Dishwasher won't start cycle
Common reasons your dishwasher won't start cycle
The most common reasons your dishwasher won't start a cycle are a defective electronic control board, damaged power supply board or a failed door switch.
29% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
28% of the time it's the
Power Supply Board
11% of the time it's the
Door Switch
32% of the time it's the
Something else
Common dishwasher repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If your dishwasher fails to start a cycle, it's possible that a faulty electronic control board is to blame. This board may become unresponsive or freeze if its internal memory or logic malfunctions. A defective internal electronic relay or damaged electronic component on the board could be responsible for this issue. Identifying a defective control board can be challenging. It's advisable to enlist the expertise of a Sears Home Services technician to diagnose and resolve the problem when your dishwasher fails to start a cycle.
Power Supply Board Replacement
If your dishwasher fails to start a cycle, a damaged power supply board might be the culprit. This board is responsible for supplying the necessary electrical current to operate various components like the fill valve and pumps within the dishwasher. If the power supply board is damaged, it won't deliver power to these components, rendering the dishwasher inoperable. If you encounter this issue, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect the power supply board and replace it if necessary.
Door Switch Replacement
If your dishwasher doesn't begin a cycle, a faulty door switch might be the issue, as it may not be recognizing that the dishwasher door is closed. Inside the door switch assembly, microswitches can break or malfunction. If the control system doesn't register the closure of the dishwasher door, the machine won't start filling with water and washing the dishes. Since testing and accessing the door switch can be challenging, it's recommended to have a Sears Home Services Professional inspect and fix your dishwasher if you suspect the door switch has failed.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher won't start cycle issue
How to fix the dishwasher when it won't start a cycle
Addressing most issues where the cycle won't start typically requires replacing the electronic control board, power supply board, or door switch. Nonetheless, since there are numerous potential causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. A precise diagnosis is necessary to determine the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services advice for a dishwasher that won't start a cycle
If your dishwasher isn't starting a cycle, several factors could be at play. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying issue. Our technicians have the expertise to diagnose various types of dishwasher problems accurately.
What to expect with a dishwasher won't start a cycle diagnosis
Diagnosing issues with modern appliances can be challenging without the right knowledge and training. Attempting repairs without proper diagnostic techniques often results in guesswork when replacing parts. Over the past decade, appliances have advanced significantly, with many now incorporating complex electronic components that are tricky to assess. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming more complex as a result.
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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
Learn how a rinse aid dispenser works in a dishwasher and how to troubleshoot problems.
Learn how an air gap works in the drain system of a dishwasher.
Learn how a portable dishwasher works.
Learn how a recirculation pump works in a dishwasher and how to troubleshoot pump problems.
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 French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
A furnace is a major appliance that heats air distributed throughout a home or building via a ductwork system.
A furnace blower motor is a crucial component of a home heating system that drives the fan responsible for circulating air throughout the HVAC system and into the living spaces of the home.
Common dishwasher symptoms to look out for
- Dishwasher won't wash
- Dishwasher won't turn off
- 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 dispenser not working
- Dishwasher detergent not dispensing
- Dishwasher burning smell
These dishwasher brands may also experience won't start cycle
- Whirlpool dishwasher won't start cycle
- Samsung dishwasher won't start cycle
- LG dishwasher won't start cycle
- KitchenAid dishwasher won't start cycle
- Kenmore Elite dishwasher won't start cycle
- Kenmore dishwasher won't start cycle
- Hotpoint dishwasher won't start cycle
- GE dishwasher won't start cycle
- Frigidaire dishwasher won't start cycle
- Bosch dishwasher won't start cycle
- Amana dishwasher won't start cycle