Your dishwasher not starting can throw off your whole cleaning routine, especially when you have a full load of dirty dishes and nothing happens when you press Start.
The good news? This problem is usually caused by something simple, like Control Lock, Delay Start, Standby Mode, an unlatched door, or a closed water supply valve.
In this guide, we’ll walk through five common reasons your dishwasher won’t start, how to fix them, and when a reset or replacement may be the better choice.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen cleaning routine? Shop FOTILE’s full collection of dishwashers for powerful cleaning, efficient performance, and sparkling dishes every time.
Why Isn’t Your Dishwasher Starting? Possible Reasons & Fixes
A dishwasher that won’t start doesn’t always mean something is broken. Before assuming there’s a mechanical problem, check these common settings and connection issues first.
1. Control Lock Is Turned On
Control Lock prevents accidental button presses, so the dishwasher won’t respond normally while it’s active. Turn the lock off using the control panel instructions in your owner’s manual, then try starting a cycle again.
2. Delay Start Is Active
Delay Start lets you schedule the dishwasher to begin later, which can make it seem like the appliance isn’t working. Cancel the delay setting or select Start/Resume to begin the cycle right away.
3. Dishwasher Is In Sleep or Standby Mode
Some dishwashers enter Sleep or Standby Mode after sitting unused for a period of time. Press a control button or open and close the door to wake the dishwasher, then select your cycle again.
4. Door Isn't Completely Closed or Latched
The dishwasher won’t start unless the door is fully closed and the latch engages properly. Make sure nothing is blocking the door, check that the racks are positioned correctly, and close it firmly before pressing Start.
5. Water Supply Is Turned Off
Your dishwasher needs an open water supply to begin and complete a wash cycle. Check the shutoff valve under the sink and make sure it’s fully open before trying the dishwasher again.
How To Reset Your Dishwasher
Sometimes a quick reset is enough to get a dishwasher responding again after a control or power issue. Check your owner’s manual first, since reset steps can vary by model.
- Turn the dishwasher off
- Disconnect it from power for about one minute
- If it plugs into an outlet, unplug it and then plug it back in
- If your dishwasher is hardwired, switch off the circuit breaker, wait about one minute, and turn it back on
- Restore power and try starting a new cycle
- If the dishwasher still won’t start, move on to further troubleshooting or schedule professional repairs
Signs You May Need A New Dishwasher
Some dishwasher problems are worth repairing, but repeated failures can be a sign that replacement makes more sense. You may want to consider a new dishwasher if performance keeps declining even after basic troubleshooting.
You may need a new dishwasher if:
- Your dishwasher is not working, not draining, or frequently fails to start or complete a cycle
- Repairs are becoming more frequent or expensive
- The door latch, control panel, or other major components keep failing
- Your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes, even after proper loading and maintenance
- Your dishwasher is leaking, making unusual noises, or showing other signs of wear
- It is older and no longer performs as efficiently as it once did
- The cost of repair outweighs the price of a replacement
Learn more about signs it’s time to replace your dishwasher.
Get Sparkling Clean Dishes with FOTILE’s Innovative Dishwashers
Don’t let unreliable cycles or dishwasher start-up issues get in the way of your kitchen cleaning routine.
Shop FOTILE’s innovative dishwashers to find a dependable upgrade designed for powerful cleaning, efficient performance, and easier everyday use.