Whirlpool Dishwasher: not working

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not working, it may be completely unresponsive, failing to start or run a cycle. This issue can stem from power supply problems, door latching issues, or control settings. Understanding these common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Official Whirlpool documentation directly identifies power supply and door latch issues as common reasons the dishwasher won’t start.turn0(Product Help | Whirlpool

Possible Causes

Power supply or electrical issue

How to Identify: Dishwasher shows no lights, no sounds, electrical outlet not supplying power, circuit breaker tripped

Part: Electrical supply, circuit breaker, power cord/outlet

Water supply turned off or water inlet issues preventing start

How to Identify: Dishwasher powers on but does not fill with water and may cancel cycle start

Part: Water inlet valve / supply line

DIY Solutions

Check Power and Reset Dishwasher

Easy 5-15 minutes
  1. Ensure power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet
  2. Check the home circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker
  3. Turn off power at the breaker for 1 minute then restore and try starting again
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dry hands and area when interacting with electrical components

Ensure Door is Fully Closed and Latch Working

Easy 2-5 minutes
  1. Open and firmly close the dishwasher door until it latches
  2. Inspect door gasket and edges for debris that could prevent closure
  3. If latch seems loose, clean around latch and try again

Deactivate Control Lock and Sleep/Delay Modes

Easy 2 minutes
  1. Check control panel for control lock indicator and deactivate it (often by holding a button for a few seconds)
  2. Ensure delay wash feature is off before starting a cycle

Professional Repairs

Replace Faulty Door Latch or Door Switch

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Control Board or User Interface Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $450

Water Inlet Valve Replacement

Estimated Cost: $75 - $200

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher shows error codes that persist after reset
Door latch or electronic parts are broken or visibly damaged
Dishwasher fills incorrectly or no water flow despite supply being on
Control panel is unresponsive after basic checks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean door gasket and latch area: Improper door sealing that can prevent start
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check and clean filters and spray arms: Water flow issues that could indirectly affect operation
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Dishwasher not working?
Common reasons include power supply issues, unlatched doors, or control settings preventing operation.
How do I fix Whirlpool Dishwasher not working myself?
Check the power connection, ensure the door is closed and latch works, and deactivate control lock or delay modes.
How much does it cost to fix not working?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $450 depending on the issue, such as door latch or control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not working?
If basic troubleshooting fails or if the problem involves complex components, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Control issue (1 mentions)
  • Motherboard failure (1 mentions)
  • Door latch malfunction (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace control board

    Success rate: 50.0%

  2. Replace motherboard

    Success rate: 0.0%

  3. Replace door latch

    Success rate: 0.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Best Dishwasher?
  2. Dishwasher and possible faulty electrical outlet.

Community Discussions

stopped working

Recommendations for Bosch and Kitchenaid dishwashers within budget.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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