Dishwasher Won't Start
You close the door, select a cycle, and press start — but nothing happens. No water, no sounds, no lights (or lights but no action). This is usually a door latch, control, or power issue.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Try these fixes before calling a technician
Check the door latch
The dishwasher won't start unless the door is fully closed and latched. Push the door firmly closed and listen for a definitive click. If the latch mechanism is worn or the strike plate is misaligned, the safety switch won't engage.
Check the control lock / child lock
Most dishwashers have a control lock feature to prevent accidental starts. On many models, you activate or deactivate it by pressing and holding a specific button (often "Heated Dry" or "Lock") for 3 seconds. Check your manual. A padlock icon on the display means it's locked.
Verify power supply
Dishwashers are usually hardwired or plugged into an outlet under the sink. Check the breaker — it should be on a dedicated 120V circuit. If it's plugged in, check the outlet with another device. Some installations include a switch on the wall that controls the dishwasher outlet.
Try a reset
Turn off the breaker for 60 seconds, then turn it back on. On many models, you can also hold the Start/Cancel button for 3-5 seconds to reset the cycle. Some dishwashers need you to close the door within 3 seconds of pressing start — try pressing start and immediately closing the door.
When to Call a Professional
If the door latches, power is confirmed, and the control lock is off but the dishwasher still won't start, the door latch switch, electronic control board, or touchpad may need replacement. These are not DIY repairs.
West Metro Appliance Repair has completed 2,623 dishwasher repairs across 70+ Twin Cities communities. Our technicians see this exact problem regularly and can diagnose it quickly.
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