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Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Starting

We need our dishwashers. They are part of the foundation of our daily lives, contributing to meal prep and cleanup and keeping our kitchens tidy.

Dishwasher not working? This article will help you troubleshoot some common reasons as to why this might be happening, and provide some guidance on who to contact if the issue persists

Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Is Not Working

If your dishwasher is suddenly not starting or you find that it’s not operating properly, it may be for the following reasons:

  • The control lock is on
  • The dishwasher is in sleep mode
  • You accidentally selected the delayed wash option
  • The dishwasher door is not completely closed and latched
  • The water supply is off
  • The power needs to be cycled to reset the dishwasher

Let’s look at each of these in some more detail.

What is the Control Lock?

The control lock on a dishwasher locks the controls, negating the chance of unintended use. It works whether the dishwasher is on or off. This can be a prudent feature for households with children who like to touch buttons.

Someone about to select a cycle by pressing the "cycles" button on the control panel of a dishwasher. Someone about to select a cycle by pressing the "cycles" button on the control panel of a dishwasher.
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Make sure you press the actual button to activate the control lock, not where it says, "Hold 3 sec".

Is the Control Lock "on"?

The control lock can safeguard your dishwasher against unintended use, including unintended cycle or option changes mid-cycle. The light will be on for only a short amount of time to let you know that the feature is on. Remember that while it is on, every button will be disabled. This means that if you press a button while the controls are locked, the light will flash three times.

To turn off the control lock, press and hold the lock button for four seconds. You should see the lock light turn off.

Learn more about using the control lock function here.

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The controls being locked will not prevent you from opening and closing the door.

Is the Dishwasher in Sleep Mode?

Some models have a sleep mode function. If you want to disable sleep mode, press either START/RESUME or CANCEL. You might have to open and close the door to turn off the control lock before disabling sleep mode.

A darkened kitchen with a stainless steel dishwasher in between cupboards and a sink. A dish cloth hangs over the edge of the sink. On the counter is a stand mixer and some bottles, among other items. In the foreground is the corner of a kitchen island. A darkened kitchen with a stainless steel dishwasher in between cupboards and a sink. A dish cloth hangs over the edge of the sink. On the counter is a stand mixer and some bottles, among other items. In the foreground is the corner of a kitchen island.

Have You Selected the Delay Wash Option?

Delay wash provides you with the option to run your dishwasher at a later time. This is especially useful if you prefer to run your dishwasher while you’re sleeping or while you’re out to take advantage of off-peak electrical hours. If you select the delay wash option, the dishwasher will only start operating after the delay time is reached.

To turn delay wash on or off:

  1. Press CANCEL/DRAIN to cancel the delay.
  2. Press START/RESUME to start the cycle.

Is the Door Completely Closed and Latched?

The dishwasher door must be closed and latched. A lower dish rack installed backward may be the culprit as to why the door won’t properly latch.

Is the Water Supply Turned on to the Dishwasher?

Sometimes a dishwasher isn’t working because the water supply is off. Make sure the water supply for the dishwasher is turned on.

It’s best to always consult the installation instructions for your specific model if you are unsure how to inspect this.

To download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.

Blue and white dishes and glass corningware being washed inside a dishwasher. Blue and white dishes and glass corningware being washed inside a dishwasher.

How to Reset Your Dishwasher?

Like a computer, resetting the dishwasher control can help your dishwasher start again.

To reset your dishwasher control, first locate the appropriate power source. Then, disconnect it from that power source for one minute.

If your dishwasher is plugged into an outlet, unplug it for one minute and then plug it back in. If your dishwasher is hardwired to the power supply, turn the breaker off at the home electrical panel that provides power to the dishwasher for one minute and then turn the breaker back on.

This guide should provide some insight into what to do if your dishwasher is not starting. Remember to inspect the situation and then go through the necessary steps to resolve the issue. Of course, if you’re too busy or uncomfortable with doing this on your own, you can schedule a service to get your dishwasher working again.

If issues persist with your dishwasher or you have any questions, please call Maytag or schedule a service.

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