Whirlpool Dishwasher: not functioning properly

Possible Causes

Control lock or incorrect settings

How to Identify: Dishwasher shows lock icon or countdown indicating Delay Start; unresponsive buttons

Part: Control panel/settings

Water supply issue (inlet valve or water off)

How to Identify: Dishwasher won’t start or pauses shortly after start; water supply valve closed or no water entering

Part: Water inlet valve/ water line

Control board or electronic failure

How to Identify: Control panel unresponsive despite power; error codes/flashing lights persisting after reset

Part: Main control board / timer

Faulty thermal fuse or internal wiring

How to Identify: Dishwasher dead despite power and correct settings; testing indicates blown fuse or broken internal connections

Part: Thermal fuse / wiring harness

DIY Solutions

Disable control lock / incorrect settings

Easy 2-5 minutes

1. Locate control lock or delay start indicator on control panel
2. Press and hold appropriate button to disable lock or cancel delay

⚠️ Safety First: No electrical risk if panel remains intact

Ensure door is properly closed and latched

Easy 2-5 minutes

1. Open dishwasher door fully
2. Check for obstructions on door gasket or latch area
3. Close door firmly until a solid click is heard

⚠️ Safety First: Avoid forcing door beyond latch limit

Reset power to dishwasher

Easy 5-10 minutes

1. Turn off circuit breaker feeding dishwasher for at least 1 minute
2. Restore breaker power
3. Attempt to start a new cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure main circuit breaker is operated safely

Check water supply valve and inlet

Moderate 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: Adjustable wrench

1. Locate water supply valve under sink
2. Ensure valve is fully open
3. Inspect inlet hose for kinks or visible blockages

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply before disconnecting hoses

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty door latch or switch

Estimated Cost: $30 - $120 parts, + labor

Replace control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350 parts, + labor

Replace water inlet valve

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120 parts, + labor

Replace thermal fuse or wiring harness

Estimated Cost: $20 - $150 parts, + labor

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher still unresponsive after power reset and door/latch checks

Persistent error codes after DIY troubleshooting

Visible malfunction or damage to internal components

No water flow despite confirmed supply and inlet checks

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean door gasket and latch area: Latch issues preventing dishwasher start
  Frequency: monthly
• Run a cleaning cycle and inspect filters: Filter and spray arm clogs that can lead to performance issues
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Dishwasher not functioning properly?

Common causes include control lock, water supply issues, and electronic failures.

How do I fix Whirlpool Dishwasher not functioning properly myself?

Try disabling control lock, ensuring the door is latched, resetting power, and checking the water supply.

How much does it cost to fix not functioning properly?

Repair costs range from $20 to $350 for parts, plus labor depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not functioning properly?

Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions fail or if the problem involves complex parts like the control board.

References & Sources

• Dishwasher Not Starting or Not Operating - Whirlpool Official

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Circulation motor failure (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replace the circulation motor

   Success rate: 33.0%

Community Discussions

Dishwasher starts and stops, humming sound, water present

The circulation motor is likely the issue and is commonly replaced.

DIY View on Reddit →

literally falling apart

Bosch is highly recommended for durability and performance.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

old dishwasher is ugly, plastic is yellowing, pieces of the dish drawers are falling off

Bosch 100 Series models and American-made brands like Whirlpool, GE, and Frigidaire are recommended.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair