Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher: not running, drawer not sensing open/close

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher not running and failing to sense if the drawer is open or closed? This issue often arises when the drawer is not fully closed, or if the child lock or keylock features are engaged, preventing the machine from starting. Ensure proper alignment and check for any mode settings that may affect operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Fisher & Paykel Models

  • DishDrawer models use unique drawer‑style sensors and have Keylock/Child lock and showroom modes that can prevent operation if active.

Possible Causes

Drawer not fully closed or misaligned

How to Identify: Ensure drawer is firmly closed; if dishes or racks interfere with closure, the sensor won’t detect closed state and dishwasher won’t start. Manual indicates drawer must be firmly closed for operation.(support.

Part: Drawer closure mechanism / latch

Keylock or Child lock engaged

How to Identify: Control panel shows lock indicator; pressing and holding lock button makes symbol disappear, enabling operation.(support.

Part: Control lock feature

Showroom mode engaged

How to Identify: DishDrawerâ„¢ remains unresponsive to start commands even with correct closure; requires specific button sequence to exit showroom mode.(support.

Part: Control panel software mode

Faulty drawer closure sensor or switch

How to Identify: Visual inspection shows no continuity on sensor when drawer is closed, or debris/damage present around latch/sensor. User reports note that misaligned or damaged door sensor leads to non‑start similar to open drawer.(JustAnswer

Part: Magnetic or mechanical door sensor switch

Controller/board fault

How to Identify: No response from controls despite correct closure and no lock mode; other faults or codes might be present. Official docs suggest controller faults require technician assistance.(support.

Part: Main control board

DIY Solutions

Ensure Drawer Fully Closed

Easy 1–3 minutes
  1. Remove and rearrange any obstructing dishes or utensils that prevent the drawer from closing flush.
  2. Slide the DishDrawerâ„¢ closed firmly until it seats fully in the rack.
  3. Attempt to start a wash cycle again.

Turn Off Keylock/Child Lock

Easy 1–3 minutes
  1. Identify the lock indicator on the control panel.
  2. Press and hold the lock/child lock button until the lock symbol disappears.
  3. Close the drawer and attempt to start a cycle.

Exit Showroom Mode

Easy 2–5 minutes
  1. Turn off the power on the control panel.
  2. Press and hold the POWER and START/PAUSE buttons simultaneously for ~5 seconds to exit showroom mode (as per model guidance).
  3. Try closing drawer and starting a wash.

Clean and Inspect Door Latch/Sensor Area

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: torch/flashlight, soft cloth, small brush
  1. Open the dishwasher and shine a light on the latch and closure area.
  2. Remove any debris, food particles, or gunk that could block the sensor or latch.
  3. Gently clean with a soft cloth and brush, then close the drawer firmly and try starting.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off to avoid accidental start during inspection.

Professional Repairs

Replace Drawer Closure Sensor/Switch

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Control Board Repair/Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Drawer does not start or sense closed after checking closure, locks, and cleaning
Visible damage to sensor/switch assembly
Control panel displays fault codes or is unresponsive after resets

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean drawer latch and sensor area: Misreads by closure sensor and start failures
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check that dishes are not protruding from racks: Improper drawer closure leading to non‑start
    Frequency: every load

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher not running, drawer not sensing open/close?
Top causes include the drawer not being fully closed, child lock engaged, or a faulty closure sensor.
How do I fix Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher not running, drawer not sensing open/close myself?
Check if the drawer is fully closed, turn off keylock/child lock, or clean the latch area.
How much does it cost to fix not running, drawer not sensing open/close?
Professional repairs range from $40 to $120 for sensor replacement and $150 to $350 for control board issues.
When should I call a technician for not running, drawer not sensing open/close?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if there's a suspected controller fault.

References & Sources

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

  • Faulty door latch or door switch preventing the dishwasher from sensing that the drawer is closed
  • Malfunctioning control board that fails to process the open/close signals correctly
  • Blocked or malfunctioning water inlet valve causing the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the door latch or door switch. Check for any obstructions and ensure the latch engages properly when the drawer is closed. If faulty, replace the door switch.

  2. Reset the control board by unplugging the dishwasher for 5 minutes. If the issue persists, consider testing the control board with a multimeter for continuity and replace if necessary.

  3. Check the water inlet valve for blockages or malfunctions. Ensure that water supply is adequate and that the valve opens when required. Replace if it’s not functioning properly.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Fisher & paykel dishdrawer

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