If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not starting?” you’re not alone. This is a common problem faced by many homeowners. The good news is that there are several reasons why this might be happening, and many of them can be resolved without the need for a professional technician. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore these issues in depth, providing you with practical solutions to get your dishwasher up and running again.
Your KitchenAid dishwasher may not be starting due to several reasons such as the control lock being on, the dishwasher being in sleep mode, a selected delayed wash option, an improperly closed door, water supply being turned off, power supply issues, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty door latch. Check each of these factors and if the dishwasher still won’t start, consider calling a professional technician.
1. Control Lock Is On
The control lock feature on KitchenAid dishwashers prevents unintended use, such as children accidentally starting the machine. If activated, it can prevent the dishwasher from starting. Check your user manual to learn how to deactivate it. This is usually done by pressing and holding a specific button for a few seconds.
2. Dishwasher Is in Sleep Mode
Like many modern appliances, KitchenAid dishwashers have a sleep mode. If your dishwasher is in sleep mode, it won’t start until it’s woken up. Wake your dishwasher by pressing either the START/RESUME or CANCEL button, or open and close the door before selecting your cycle/option.
3. Delayed Wash Option Is Selected
The delayed wash feature allows you to set the dishwasher to start at a later time. If this option is selected, the dishwasher won’t start until the delay period ends. Either wait for the delay period to end or cancel the delay setting.
4. Door Is Not Completely Closed and Latched
The dishwasher won’t start unless the door is completely closed and latched. A common issue is a lower dish rack installed backward, which can prevent the door from latching properly. Ensure your dish rack is properly installed and that the door is fully closed.
5. Water Supply Is Not Turned On
The dishwasher needs water to operate. If the water supply is turned off, the dishwasher won’t start. Check to ensure that the water supply is turned on.
6. Power Supply Issues
A common reason why a KitchenAid dishwasher won’t start is due to power supply issues. Check if the power cord is correctly plugged in and if the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the dishwasher is hard-wired to the power supply, try turning off the breaker at the home electrical panel for one minute and then turning it back on.
7. Blown Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse acts as a safety device that cuts off power to the dishwasher if it detects excessive heat. If the thermal fuse has blown, the dishwasher won’t start. You can check the thermal fuse using a multimeter. If the fuse is blown, it will need to be replaced.
8. Faulty Door Latch
A faulty door latch can prevent the dishwasher from starting. Inspect the door latch for damage. If the latch is compromised, it may need to be replaced.
If you’ve tried all these troubleshooting steps and your KitchenAid dishwasher still won’t start, it may be time to call in a professional technician. While it’s possible to conduct further troubleshooting yourself, a professional can accurately diagnose and fix the problem, saving you time and effort.
Remember, it’s always important to consult your user manual or contact a professional if you’re unsure about any aspect of your dishwasher’s operation or maintenance. With proper care and troubleshooting, you can ensure your KitchenAid dishwasher serves you well for many years to come.
