Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser not working

Common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser is not working

The most common reasons your Whirlpool 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

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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dishwasher

Detergent Dispenser Replacement

When the detergent dispenser isn’t working, it could have an internal failure preventing it from opening. An internal switch in the detergent dispenser releases the dispenser latch so a spring snaps the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, bad switch or defective latch can keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser when it isn’t working.

How to replace a dishwasher detergent dispenser

Electronic Control Board Replacement

When the dishwasher detergent dispenser is not working, a defective electronic control board could be causing the problem. Internal logic and relays in the electronic control board send electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser to open the lid latch and dispense the detergent. Corrupted internal logic or failed relays in the electronic control board could keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert examine the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it’s defective.

How to replace a dishwasher electronic control board

Water Valve Replacement

When the detergent dispenser isn’t working, it could have an internal failure preventing it from opening. An internal switch in the detergent dispenser releases the dispenser latch so a spring snaps the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, bad switch or defective latch can keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser when it isn’t working.

How to replace a dishwasher water valve

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser not working issue

How is the dispenser not working problem fixed?

Correcting most dispenser not working problems usually involves replacing the detergent dispenser, electronic control board or water valve. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher dispenser that is not working

When the dishwasher dispenser is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.

What to look out for with a dishwasher dispenser not working diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

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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