Amana Dishwasher: not functioning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana Dishwasher isn't functioning, you may experience a complete lack of response when pressing start. This issue could stem from common causes like a faulty door latch, power supply problems, or a malfunctioning control panel. Understanding these issues can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana models commonly have issues with door latch/switch and control board problems that prevent start unless door fully engages.

Possible Causes

Door latch or door switch not engaging

How to Identify: Dishwasher does not start at all; door does not securely latch or start button is pressed but no response; ensure door fully closes and engages

Part: Door latch / door switch

No power reaching dishwasher

How to Identify: No lights, no sounds, no response when pressing controls; check circuit breaker, GFCI, and incoming power wiring

Part: Power supply / wiring / circuit breaker

Control panel / user interface malfunction

How to Identify: Buttons unresponsive, strange indicators, or locked controls; control lock engaged may prevent starting

Part: Control board / touchpad

Thermal fuse blown

How to Identify: Appliance won’t start despite power being present; continuity test of fuse shows open circuit

Part: Thermal fuse

Water inlet or float switch issues preventing cycle start

How to Identify: Dishwasher doesn’t fill nor start; ensure water supply valve is open and float moves freely

Part: Water inlet valve / float switch

Pump or motor assembly failure

How to Identify: Power present but motor doesn’t run; humming or no movement may suggest motor issue

Part: Pump and motor assembly

DIY Solutions

Check door latch and ensure secure closure

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Open dishwasher door and inspect latch for debris or damage
  2. Close door firmly ensuring it latches and try starting cycle
⚠️ Safety First: No power tools needed

Check power supply and reset circuit breaker

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Locate home electrical panel and check dishwasher circuit breaker
  2. If tripped, switch fully off then on
  3. If applicable, check GFCI outlet and reset
⚠️ Safety First: Do not touch live wires

Reset control board

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Turn off dishwasher power at breaker or unplug
  2. Wait one minute
  3. Restore power and attempt restart
⚠️ Safety First: Turning off power makes components safe

Ensure water supply and float switch functionality

Easy 10–15 minutes
  1. Check water supply valve under sink is open
  2. Inspect dishwasher float (usually in front right of tub) for free movement
⚠️ Safety First: No electrical risk

Professional Repairs

Replace door latch or door switch

Estimated Cost: $40–$120

Replace thermal fuse or control board

Estimated Cost: $50–$300

Replace circulation pump/motor assembly

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

When to Call a Professional

Power supply issues involving wiring or breaker panel problems
Door switch or control board defects confirmed via testing
Pump or motor assembly failures
Persistent no-start after basic troubleshooting

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean door latch and gasket area: Door latch failures or improper closure
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect and clean filters and float area: Water supply and drainage issues that can prevent operation
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dishwasher not functioning?
Common causes include a faulty door latch, power supply issues, or a malfunctioning control panel.
How do I fix Amana Dishwasher not functioning myself?
Check the door latch, reset the power supply, and ensure the water supply is open.
How much does it cost to fix not functioning?
Professional repair costs range from $40 to $300 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not functioning?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work or if the issue involves complex repairs.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Fixed the knob and reassembled the door panel

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. My dishwasher died. Deciding what to replace it with is more...
  2. Help with putting dishwasher back together - Amana ADB1000AW...

Community Discussions

died

Bosch dishwashers are recommended for reliability and performance.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

knob got stuck and would not move

User fixed the knob and received advice on reassembling the door panel.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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