Amana Dishwasher: not running

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana dishwasher is not running, you may notice that pressing the start button yields no response, with no motor noise or operation. This issue commonly arises when the door isn't securely closed, or if thereâ€™s a problem with the power supply. Other potential causes include a faulty door latch, control panel lock, or even a blown thermal fuse. Troubleshooting these areas can help restore functionality to your dishwasher.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

Control Lock and Delay Start features can prevent starting and must be cleared first.
Thermal fuse failure is a known occasional cause preventing start.

Possible Causes

Door latch or door switch failure

How to Identify: Dishwasher wonâ€™t start and no operation unless the door is fully latched; door might not click securely.

Part: Door latch assembly and door switch

Control panel lock or delay start engaged

How to Identify: Control Lock light on or Delay Start active; pressing buttons yields flashing lights but no start.

Part: Control panel controls

Lack of incoming power (breaker/fuse/tripped GFCI)

How to Identify: No lights or indicators on panel; tripped breaker or fuse in home electrical panel.

Part: Household circuit / dishwasher power supply

Thermal fuse blown

How to Identify: Dishwasher shows no response even with power present; multimeter shows no continuity through thermal fuse.

Part: Thermal fuse on control board

Control board or user interface failure

How to Identify: Buttons unresponsive or incorrect behavior; reset does not fix; multimeter tests show control faults.

Part: Control board / display board

Faulty motor start relay / motor assembly

How to Identify: No motor noise when starting; multimeter tests show failed relay/motor windings.

Part: Motor start relay / motor

DIY Solutions

Ensure door latch fully engages

Easy 5-10 minutes

Open and close door firmly until latch clicks.
Inspect latch for debris or damage.
Replace latch assembly if it does not secure properly.

Cancel Delay Start or Control Lock

Easy 1-2 minutes

Check if control lock light is on; press and hold Control Lock to deactivate.
Check for Delay Start indicator and press Cancel/DRAIN to clear.
Press Start again after clearing settings.

Reset power to dishwasher

Easy 3-5 minutes

Turn off dishwasher power via breaker or unplug for 30â€“60 seconds.
Restore power and attempt to start dishwasher.
Observe if controls and operation resume normally.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure breaker is off before handling power.

Professional Repairs

Replace thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $15 - $40

Replace control board or UI panel

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300+

Replace motor start relay or motor assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $250+

When to Call a Professional

After all DIY troubleshooting fails to resolve the issue

If multimeter testing indicates failed internal components

If electrical issues beyond simple reset or latch replacement are suspected

Preventive Maintenance

Clean door latch area: Latch malfunction preventing start
Frequency: monthly
Reset control panel periodically after power outages: Control lock or glitch issues
Frequency: as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dishwasher not running?

Common causes include a failed door latch, control lock engaged, or lack of power.

How do I fix Amana Dishwasher not running myself?

Check if the door latch is secure and clear any control lock settings.

How much does it cost to fix not running?

Repair costs range from $15 for a thermal fuse to over $300 for a control board.

When should I call a technician for not running?

If DIY solutions fail or if the issue involves complex repairs, contact a professional.

References & Sources

Dishwasher Not Starting or Not Operating - Amana Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Door latch not engaging properly
Faulty control panel or electronic control board
Blocked or malfunctioning circulation pump

User Suggested Solutions

Check the door latch. Ensure the dishwasher door is fully closed and the latch is engaging. If it's not, adjust or replace the latch as needed.
Inspect the control panel for any visible damage or error codes. Reset the dishwasher by unplugging it for 5 minutes. If the problem persists, consider replacing the control board.
Examine the circulation pump for blockages or damage. Clear any debris and ensure the pump is functioning. If it's defective, replace the pump.