How to Fix If KitchenAid Dishwasher Won’t Start?

Are you frustrated with your KitchenAid dishwasher refusing to start? Relax then, since you are not alone.

Although KitchenAid Dishwashers are one of the reliable appliances in the market, being a machine, they can cause problems now and then. A malfunctioning dishwasher can interrupt our daily kitchen and home care routine. It will leave you with dirty dishes and the stress and expense of repairing. However, before you panic and consider expensive repairs or replacements, following some quick and easy troubleshooting is better to help you right home.

Why KitchenAid Dishwasher Won’t Start? – Causes and Solution

Join us in this article as we discover what’s keeping your KitchenAid Dishwasher from starting/ operating. We will also discuss potential malfunctions and steps to repair the appliance quickly. And, with that said, let’s get started.

FIX 1: Check whether KitchenAid is in Sleep Mode or Control Lock is ON.

If your KitchenAid Dishwasher is in Sleep Mode, it may fail to start even after multiple tries. However, this issue requires a quick and easy fix which will not take over a minute.

1. Disable the Sleep Mode of your KitchenAid Dishwasher by pressing either START/RESUME or CANCEL.
2. Or press and hold the Lock Button for 4 to 5 seconds or until the lock light indicator turns off. Before you do so, simply open and close the door and be able to turn the Lock Button Off.

Control Lock is a feature that comes in handy to avoid unintended dishwasher use. The control Lock feature also helps to avoid unintended cycle or option changes during a cycle.

Some KitchenAid Dishwashers have Sleep Mode, whereas others have Control Lock. Work with the fix that suits your dishwasher model the best.

FIX 2: Check whether the Delay Wash option is Active

KitchenAid Dishwashers have a Delay Wash option that makes the appliance appear non-responsive until the set delay time is reached. If you have accidentally selected the Delay Wash feature and now trying to start your KitchenAid Dishwasher, it simply won’t. To get through this, all you need to do is:

1. Press the CANCEL/DRAIN button to cancel the delay setting.
2. Once the Delay Wash feature is canceled, START/RESUME button and it will start the wash cycle immediately.

FIX 3: Ensure the Dishwasher’s door is closed and latched securely.

It will fail to start operations until a dishwasher’s door is closed and latched securely. If you face the same issue, check if the door is closed properly. Make sure no obstructions are preventing the door from closing. In addition, press the door gently to confirm that it is securely latched. You must inspect the dishwasher’s lower dish rack or other racks for proper installation and alignment. However, even after checking everything, the issue persists and may require adjustment or repair.

FIX 4: Check the Water Supply

Until the water supply is On, your KitchenAid Dishwasher won’t start. You should confirm the water supply line is properly functioning and the water valve is in full swing. Confirm the same and check again. You may also need to check if the water supply valve is under the sink or in a nearby cabinet.

FIX 5: Check the Control Board for Fault

The Control Board controls the typical functions/ operations of a KitchenAid Dishwasher. However, if the Control Board becomes faulty, it may end the washing cycle in the mid or won’t even start in the first place. Control Board malfunctions are common after a power surge or any electric issue. If yours is also faulty, consult a technician to repair it.

FIX 6: Check for Thermal Fuse

The KitchenAid dishwashers have a thermal fuse that keeps the appliance from overheating. However, at times when the thermal fuse blows up/corrupts, the dishwasher may fail to restart. Here you need to first check the thermal fuse, and if it corrupts, replace it. To do so, follow the steps given below:

1. Start by locating the thermal fuse near the control board or at the front panel of the dishwasher. For more reference, check the dishwasher’ manual.
2. Now once you have found the thermal fuse, use a multimeter and carefully test it. All you need to do is place the multimeter probes on each end of the fuse and check for a continuous electrical path. No continuity indicates that the thermal fuse is defective and you need to replace it. However, continuity means that there isn’t any problem with the thermal fuse, and you must check for another issue.
3. For replacing the thermal fuse, check your dishwasher’s manual for the correct part number and instructions.

FIX 7: Check your Dishwasher’s Wire Harness

In situations where the dishwasher’s start button function correctly, but the appliance still doesn’t start, the chances of a damaged wire harness are high. The wire harness enables power transfer from the control board to the various pump components. Here’s what you can do to get through this situation:
1. Start by disconnecting your KitchenAid dishwasher from its power source.
2. Now, locate the wire harness; you may find it near the control board. Or check in the vicinity of the pump components. Once found, check the wire harness for any fray or breakage or any other visible signs of damage. If found, replace the wire harness carefully. It is better to call a technician for the task since a secure and properly seated wire fixing isn’t likely possible at home.
3. If the wire harness isn’t faulty, do check for incoming power as well. An interrupted power supply as well may end up not letting the KitchenAid dishwasher start.

FIX 8: Check the functionality of the Drain Pump

A malfunctioning drain pump can disrupt the dishwasher’s normal operation. If there is any functionality issue with the drain pump, it may even keep the dishwasher from starting its operation. The drain pump is meant to remove the dishwasher’s water at different operational stages. A faulty drain pump will keep some water inside the machine, hindering every next operation. If your KitchenAid dishwasher too is failing to start, inspect it for blockages and test its functionality. To do so:

1. Find your KitchenAid dishwasher’s Drain pump. You can easily find it at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Inspect the drain pump and the surrounding area for any blockage. Look for obstructions or debris that is preventing it from functioning properly. If found, use a vacuum or any other object to clear away any clogs or foreign objects.
3. take a multimeter and test the drain pump for continuity. If it passes the continuity test, check it for operations. However, if it fails the continuity test, you now need to replace the drain pump.

Bottom Line…

These were the top 8 fixes for the “KitchenAid Dishwasher Won’t Start” Issue. Start using the most basic troubleshoots and then move on the complex ones.
While you use the above fixes, we recommend you to consult a technician for any specific help. Avoid changing/ testing wires or another electric object on your own if you aren’t well-versed with the hardware of a dishwasher. Or you can also reach the KitchenAid support center (https://www.kitchenaid.com/repair-or-replace.html) for further assistance.