The Unit Has Faulty Electrical Wires
Electrical issues can definitely cause your dishwasher to fail to start. For the most part, the issue may be with the electrical cord itself, or it can be with the wiring. There are wires connecting the dishwasher control panel, motor pumps, and other components.
If these wires experience a shortage or burnout, the dishwasher will not function properly. A power surge can easily cause issues with the wires as well.
The best thing to do in this case is to try to reset the dishwasher at the circuit breaker to see if this fixes the issue. If it doesn’t, refer to the user guide or contact an appliance technician.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher Keeps Beeping Clean
A KitchenAid dishwasher, by default, beeps whenever the cycle has been run fully and the dishes are clean. This is to alert you that the dishes are ready to be removed from the dishwasher.
At times, however, a dishwasher may malfunction and it could be as if the dishes were clean but the cycle is not finished running.
There are actually numerous issues that could be involved with this problem. A little troubleshooting is in order to determine what exactly is going on.
Did the dishwasher stop running and there is still water inside? Did the cycle not fully complete?
If you discover that there are more issues other than the dishwasher beeping at an inappropriate time, you should have those repaired first. This may require the use of a qualified KitchenAid technician.
You might also try resetting the dishwasher and starting over. There are a number of ways to do this, but the first thing you can try is holding down the start button for three seconds until it beeps.
Holding down the start button for three seconds causes the dishwasher to go into a short cancel cycle. All of the water should drain out of the dishwasher within a matter of a few minutes and then you can try running the cycle again.
In some cases, it may also be necessary to do a hard reset on the dishwasher. This is a matter of turning off the power for a full minute before turning it back on again.
If those options do not stop the dishwasher from beeping clean, you may need help from a technician.
Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Wont Start And The Solution
There are several reasons why your dishwasher refuses to start, but the most likely offenders include the door latch assembly, electric control timer, selector switch, and thermal fuse. When any of these components fail, it could prevent your dishwasher from starting.
Try These Steps before You Begin the Troubleshooting Process:
- Check If Your Dishwasher Is Plugged In. This might sound obvious, but sometimes the simplest thing is the easiest to forget. That is, sometimes the dishwasher wont start simply because it has not been plugged in.
- Inspect Your Circuit Breaker. If your dishwasher is already plugged in but it still wont work, there may be an issue with the circuit breaker. Head to your household breaker box and check if the switch is flipped to the wrong position. Alternatively, you may also notice some signs of overheating. If it is the latter, it is best to let an expert deal with the problem.
- Ensure That the Child Lock Setting Is Not Activated. Some dishwasher models come with a child lock button on the control panel. It is essentially a safety feature that prevents children from accidentally changing your appliances setting, especially during the wash cycle. It could also prevent your dishwasher from starting.
If none of these steps work, read on to figure out the culprit for your malfunctioning dishwasher, as well as the appropriate solution. Dont forget to disconnect the appliance from the power source before getting started.
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How To Read Error Codes For Whirlpool Or Kitchenaid
Besides sharing similar components and reset sequences, Whirlpool and KitchenAid dishwashers also share the same ways of displaying error codes for you to read.
Depending on the model, youll either see error codes being displayed clearly with alphabets and numbers, or youll see the Clean light flash in patterns that indicate specific problems.
For example, some models will display an error code that reads F1E1. That exact same error might appear on other models as the Clean light flashing one time, then pausing for two seconds, then flashing once more.
The first set of flashes points to the Function code, while the second indicates the Problem code.
Kitchenaid Dishwasher Wont Start What To Do

- Post published:November 27, 2021
- Post category:Around the Kitchen/Dishwashers/Large Kitchen Appliances
Are you having issues with your KitchenAid dishwasher? Have you loaded up the dishwasher only to press the start button and find that the cycle doesn’t begin? What do you do in this situation? And what could be causing it? We have researched why KitchenAid dishwashers may fail to start on occasion, and in this post, we will go over it with you.
KitchenAid dishwashers may fail to start if they have electrical issues, unlocked latches, power problems, or water supply issues. It’s best to troubleshoot the dishwasher by looking for any error codes and double-checking that the door is completely closed. It’s also helpful to refer to your user manual to determine what the error codes are indicating.
Sometimes the dishwasher may not start and may require only a simple and quick fix or adjustment. And at other times, the issue may be more complex, requiring thorough troubleshooting or for you to have an appliance technician look at the unit. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons why a KitchenAid dishwasher won’t start and how to troubleshoot this issue.
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Kitchenaid Dishwasher Start Button Flashing
Be sure to close the door properly before pressing the Start/Resume key.
The other thing that you should understand is that the Start key could be flashing as a way of alerting you that the key or the entire control board is having problems.
To fix the key, try the steps under the section Checking the keyswitch contacts.
Resetting The Dishwasher Manually
Tip: If your dishwasher is wired directly to the power source, youll need to turn off the breaker that powers that room for 5 minutes and then turn it back on.
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Ii Malfunctioning Electric Control Or Timer
If the door latch assembly is not the guilty party, you might want to check the electric timer control. This component is linked to the control panel and decides the duration of the wash cycle. If the electric control has gone kaput, the timer wont receive the power needed to start the cycle, which can prevent your appliance from turning on. The same goes if there is an improper connection between the timer and the control panel.
How to test the electric control:
Kitchenaid Dishwasher Wont Drain
If the KitchenAid dishwasher wont drain, try these tips: 1 Make sure the drain hose is connected properly. 2 Remove any items from the bottom rack. 3 Check the filter and clean if necessary. 4 Clean the outside of the unit with soap and warm water. 5 Turn off the power switch. 6 Run the dishwasher empty for 10 minutes. 7 Start the dishwasher again. 8 Let it run until the cycle ends. 9 Close the door. 10 Wait another 10 minutes. 11 Open the door and check the drain. 12 If the drain isnt draining, repeat steps 1 11. 13 If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer. 14 If the problem still exists after contacting the manufacturer, call a professional service technician. 15 If the problem continues, replace the part. 16 If the problem doesnt resolve itself, contact the manufacturer. 17 If the problem remains unresolved, contact a local appliance repair shop. 18 If KitchenAid dishwashers are designed to be used with specific types of dishes. For instance, the KitchenAid® Pro Series Dishwasher comes with a stainless steel basket and a removable plastic liner. It is recommended that you remove the plastic liner when washing glassware and other delicate items. If you are using the KitchenAid® ProSeries Dishwasher with a plastic liner, please read the instructions carefully and follow the directions provided.
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How To Fix Kitchenaid Dishwasher Start Button Not Working
If you are pressing your start button and its not starting then you must check whether the control lock is on. A control lock is designed to prevent unintended use such as accidently pressing another button or preventing children from playing with the appliance.
If the control lock is turned on youll sometimes see a light flashing to indicate that the function is on. If this is the case then you must turn it off in order for the dishwasher to work.
You can turn off the control lock feature by pressing and holding the lock button for about 4 to 5 seconds. The control light will turn off which indicates that the lock is off. You can then try the pressing the start button. If it still doesnt work it may be because sleep mode is on.
When your dishwasher is in sleep mode, its basically paused. The appliance will be on and have the settings youve placed. However, sometimes your KitchenAid dishwasher is put into sleep mode which makes it not function by pressing the start button.
You can turn off sleep mode by pressing the Start, Resume or Cancel button. You can also open and close the dishwasher door before choosing your cycle option.
When youve tried these steps your KichenAid should reset itself and the start button will continue to work. You can then pause, start or stop your cycle as normal.
Additional Reasons Why Start Button isnt Working
Issue #: Faulty Thermostat
Similar to the heating element, when the thermostat isnt functioning properly, then the dishwasher could get stuck trying to go to the heating stage. If you notice that there is a lot of steam and hot water forming in your dishwasher cabinet, it could indicate that the thermostat is damaged or broken. Here is how to replace the old thermostat with a new one.
Ryan Womeldorf has more than a decade of experience writing. He loves to blog about construction, plumbing, and other home topics. Ryan also loves hockey and a lifelong Buffalo sports fan.
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Kitchenaid Dishwasher Not Starting Or Not Operating
There are several reasons why your KitchenAid dishwasher not starting or not operating:
- control lock is on
- dishwasher is in sleep mode
- delayed wash option is selected
- door is not completely closed and latched
- water supply is not turned on
- the power needs to be cycled to reset the dishwasher
Is the control lock “on” or is the dishwasher in sleep mode?
The control lock is used to avoid unintended use of the dishwasher as well as to avoid unintended cycle or option changes during a cycle, some model have a sleep mode function. The control lock light will stay on for a short time, indicating that it is activated and all buttons are disabled. If any buttons are pressed while the dishwasher control is locked, the light will flash three times. The door can still be opened/closed while the controls are locked.
NOTE: You may need to disable Sleep Mode by pressing either START/RESUME or CANCEL, or by opening and closing the door before you are able to turn the control lock off.
To turn off the control lock feature:
for more information on the Control Lock
Help My Kitchenaid Dishwasher Wont Start

If youre asking, Why wont my KitchenAid dishwasher start? the answer can be one of several common problems. While you could have a faulty part on your hands, it could be due to something as simple as not being properly plugged in. Take a few minutes to review these DIY tips prior to seeking repair.
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Check The Electrical Control Board
Solving the dishwashers power problem could be as simple as examining the control board.
- Check that all the connections on the control board are connected, making sure they are plugged in tightly.
- Check the control board for any signs of corrosion, burn marks, or other damage to the board and wires.
- If you notice any damage, this may indicate what the problem is.
It is difficult to test the control board, so it is best checked by a professional. If you are unsure, it would be wise to check all the steps on this list before replacing the control board.
Check The Dishwasher Power Cord
Some dishwashers have a power cord that plugs into an electrical outlet under the sink, while other dishwasher power cords are wired directly from the wall to the wires in the dishwashers junction box. If your dishwasher power cord plugs into an electrical outlet, make sure the power cord is plugged in.
If the power cord is plugged in, its possible the electrical outlet doesnt work. Check the electrical outlet for power by plugging in a small lamp. If it doesnt light up, have an electrician repair the bad outlet.
Heres a helpful troubleshooting video that shows this step and additional troubleshooting steps to take when your dishwasher has now power.
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Is The Power Supply Correctly Connected To The Dishwasher Has A Household Fuse Blown Or Circuit Breaker Tripped
If the unit has a plug-in power cord, make sure it is properly plugged in. If the unit is directly wired, make sure that the wiring has been correctly connected to the unit. Refer to the installation instruction for proper direct wiring instructions.
If power is properly connected, check your household electrical box to see if a fuse has blown or if the circuit breaker has tripped.
It is not recommended to plug a dishwasher into an outlet with a wall switch that must be in the ON position to supply power to the outlet. Locate another outlet or direct wire the dishwasher to the home power supply.
to watch a video on how to connect the dishwasher to the home power supply.
What Would Cause A Kitchenaid Dishwasher Not To Start
If you notice that your dishwasher isnt working properly, try turning off the power to the unit and unplugging it from the wall outlet. After doing this, wait about 30 minutes and turn the power back on. This will allow any residual electricity to dissipate and clear the circuit board. Once the power is turned back on, plug the appliance into the wall again and press the start button. Your dishwasher should now be ready to run.
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