Amana Dishwasher: not powering on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana dishwasher is not powering on, you may notice no lights or sounds when attempting to start a wash cycle. This issue often occurs due to a lack of incoming electrical power or a faulty control board. Troubleshooting steps can help identify the problem and restore functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana dishwashers can have specific issues such as failed wire harness or control board faults; confirm universal causes first.

Possible Causes

No incoming electrical power

How to Identify: Dishwasher shows zero lights or activity; check circuit breaker and GFCI outlets for trip, test outlet with another device. Confirm plug or hardwired connection is secure.

Part: Circuit breaker / GFCI outlet / power supply

Faulty main control board or electronic control

How to Identify: Power available at junction but control board fails to activate system; may need professional multimeter diagnosis.

Part: Main control board / power supply board

DIY Solutions

Reset power and check household supply

Easy 10-15 minutes
Tools Needed: None
  1. Locate and check dishwasher circuit breaker in main panel; reset if tripped.
  2. If plugged into outlet, test GFCI and reset if needed.
  3. If plugged in, unplug and re-plug firmly to ensure connection.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hands are dry when working near electrical panel.

Verify door latch operation

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Open and close the dishwasher door, listening for a solid latch click.
  2. Inspect latch area for debris or misalignment.
  3. If latch seems loose or not engaging, consider replacing door latch component.

Disable control lock / child lock

Easy 5 minutes
Tools Needed: None
  1. Check display for lock icon.
  2. Follow instructions in user manual to deactivate control lock (often pressing specific buttons).

Professional Repairs

Replace thermal fuse or internal fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60

Control board or power supply repair/replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher still shows no activity after checking breaker, GFCI, power cord, and latch.
Internal components like thermal fuse or control board suspected and continuity testing required.
Dishwasher is hardwired and junction box wiring needs inspection.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check and clean door latch and strike area: Latch-related no-start issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Test GFCI outlets regularly: Power interruptions affecting dishwasher operation
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dishwasher not powering on?
Common causes include no incoming electrical power or a faulty main control board.
How do I fix Amana Dishwasher not powering on myself?
Reset the power, check the door latch, and disable the control lock.
How much does it cost to fix not powering on?
Professional repairs can range from $20 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not powering on?
If DIY solutions do not resolve the issue, consider contacting a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door latch or door switch preventing power from reaching the dishwasher
  • Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse in the electrical panel
  • Defective control board or timer malfunction

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the door latch and switch. Open the dishwasher door and inspect the latch for any visible damage. If necessary, replace the door switch. Ensure the door closes properly to engage the latch.

  2. Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box. Locate the breaker for the dishwasher and reset it if tripped. If a fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.

  3. Test or replace the control board. If the door latch and circuit are functioning, the control board may need testing with a multimeter. If defective, replace the control board.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Dishwasher not working - any ideas?

Community Discussions

Dishwasher not working, lights won't go on

Needed a new board, opted to buy a new dishwasher instead.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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