Whirlpool Dishwasher: not functioning
What is this symptom?
Is your Whirlpool dishwasher not functioning? If it won’t start or respond during a wash cycle, you may be dealing with issues such as a door not latching properly, a control lock being engaged, or even a power interruption. Understanding these common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively and restore your dishwasher's operation.
Important Tips for Whirlpool Models
- Many Whirlpool models have control lock, delay start, and sleep mode features that make the unit appear nonfunctional when engaged; refer to manual for deactivation sequences.
Possible Causes
Door not reliably latched
How to Identify: Dishwasher door appears closed but does not click firmly; machine does not start and may show door ajar indicator or no response.
Part: Door latch/switch assembly
Control lock or delay start engaged
How to Identify: Lock icon illuminated or delay indicator visible on control panel; buttons unresponsive to normal commands.
Part: Control panel/touchpad features
Power interruption (breaker tripped or disconnected)
How to Identify: Dishwasher has no lights or sounds; other appliances on same circuit may be off; breaker position flipped.
Part: Power supply/circuit breaker
Failed control board or electronic controls
How to Identify: Dishwasher shows error codes, unresponsive panel after resets; sometimes lights flash or no change after reset.
Part: Main control board/user interface board
Faulty water inlet valve or water supply off
How to Identify: Dishwasher attempts to start but no water fill; unit may drain immediately or error codes appear; external water supply may be closed.
Part: Water inlet valve/house supply valve
Internal mechanical or electrical fault (motor, wiring)
How to Identify: No response after basic troubleshooting; humming sound without operation; failed continuity checks.
Part: Drive motor, wiring harness
DIY Solutions
Check Door Latch and Close Properly
- Open and firmly close dishwasher door until a distinct click is heard.
- Inspect latch area for debris; clean with a cloth if needed.
- Attempt to start a cycle after ensuring door is fully latched.
Disable Control Lock/Delay Features
- Locate control lock or delay indicator on the control panel.
- Press and hold the specified button per manual instructions to deactivate.
- Try starting a cycle after indicators go off.
Power Reset the Dishwasher
- Turn off the dishwasher power via circuit breaker or unplug for 1 minute.
- Wait full 60 seconds to allow control memory to clear.
- Restore power and attempt starting a cycle.
Professional Repairs
Replace Door Latch or Door Switch
Control Board or Interface Replacement
Motor or Internal Electrical Fault Repair
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Regularly clean door latch area and filters: Door latch interference and sensor detection errors
Frequency: monthly -
Run periodic power resets and check control panel functions: Electronic glitches accumulating in control board memory
Frequency: every 3-6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Whirlpool Dishwasher not functioning?
How do I fix Whirlpool Dishwasher not functioning myself?
How much does it cost to fix not functioning?
When should I call a technician for not functioning?
References & Sources
Community Analytical Insights
Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities
Can I Fix This Myself?
User Suggested Solutions
-
Replace the control panel
-
Buy a new dishwasher (Whirlpool WDF550SAHS)
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
stopped working
Buy a new dishwasher or replace the control panel yourself if it's cheaper.
broken dishwasher
User decided to go with the Whirlpool WDF550SAHS for its value and availability.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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