Is your Whirlpool dishwasher giving you trouble by not starting or operating properly? Before you start thinking about calling a repair service, you can try a few simple checks and troubleshooting steps on your own.
This guide is here to help you navigate through some common problems that might be stopping your dishwasher from working and offer easy fixes you can do yourself.
1. Safety First: Precautions Before You Start
Before we dive into troubleshooting your Whirlpool dishwasher, let’s go over some important safety steps to keep you protected during the process.
Unplugging the Dishwasher
First thing’s first – whenever you plan to take a closer look at your dishwasher, it’s best to unplug it from the power source. For dishwashers hardwired into your electrical system, you’ll want to turn off the circuit breaker that powers the dishwasher instead. This ensures there’s no risk of electrical shock while you’re poking around.
Handling Electrical Components with Care
Some troubleshooting steps may involve checking electrical parts like the control panel or wiring. When handling these components, be very gentle and careful. Electrical parts can be delicate, so avoid forcing or prying at them too much. If an electrical part seems too tricky to work safely, it’s best to call a professional repair service.
Avoiding Water Exposure to Electrical Parts
Water and electricity make a shocking combination – literally! So, when troubleshooting, be mindful of any electrical parts and do your best to keep them dry. Don’t let water from the dishwasher tub or hoses come into contact with electrical components. A little preventive care goes a long way.
2. Quick Whirlpool Dishwasher Troubleshooting Tips
If your Whirlpool dishwasher isn’t working properly, try these quick troubleshooting tips to identify and fix common issues before calling a repair professional.
Control Lock and Sleep Mode
The control lock feature is designed to prevent accidental use of the dishwasher. Look for a lock icon or an indicator light on the control panel. If the control lock is on, your dishwasher won’t start. Consult your user manual for specific instructions on how to deactivate it, typically by pressing and holding a button (like the Lock or Control Lock button) for a few seconds.
Some Whirlpool dishwashers have a sleep mode that conserves energy by turning off the control panel display after a period of inactivity. To wake the dishwasher from sleep mode, you generally need to press any button on the control panel. If the display lights up but the dishwasher still doesn’t start, try a full reset by turning off the dishwasher and then turning it back on.
Water Supply Issues
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Verify that the water supply is turned on
For your dishwasher to run, it needs a constant supply of fresh water. Locate the water supply valve under your sink that feeds the dishwasher line. Ensure it is fully in the open/on position and not accidentally turned off or partially closed. -
Check the inlet valve for blockages
The inlet valve controls water flowing into the dishwasher tub. If it becomes clogged or obstructed, your dishwasher won’t be able to fill properly. Check the valve for any debris buildup and give it a quick clean if needed.
Basic Resetting Steps
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Soft Reset Instructions
For a simple soft reset, all you need to do is cut the power supply to the dishwasher by unplugging it or flipping the circuit breaker. Leave it unpowered for 1-5 minutes, then restore power. This clears most errors. -
Hard Reset Instructions
If a soft reset doesn’t work, you might need to perform a hard reset. Disconnect power, wait 5-10 minutes, then restore power while pressing and holding the Start/Reset button for 5+ seconds.
4. Solving Specific Whirlpool Dishwasher Problems
Get quick solutions to common Whirlpool dishwasher issues—from control panel glitches to water supply troubles—so your machine runs smoothly again.
Control Panel Issues
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Resetting the control panel
Like a computer, the dishwasher’s controls sometimes need a quick reboot. To reset your Whirlpool dishwasher’s control panel, press and hold the Start button for 3 seconds, or refer to your user manual for specific reset instructions. -
Understanding and using the delay start function
The delay start function allows you to set your dishwasher to start at a later time, which can be useful for running it during off-peak hours. If the delay start option was selected, your dishwasher will seem like it’s not starting because it’s waiting for the designated delay time. Double-check this setting and cancel the delay if unintended. -
Troubleshooting unresponsive buttons
If the buttons on your dishwasher’s control panel are unresponsive, check if the control lock is activated. If not, the issue might be with the control panel itself. Try a reset first, and if that doesn’t work, you may need to inspect the wiring or replace the control panel.
Water Supply Issues
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Check the water supply
Ensure the water supply valve under your sink is fully open, providing the necessary water to your dishwasher. -
Inlet valve blockages
Clear any debris in the inlet valve to ensure proper water flow.
5. Fixing Component-Specific Whirlpool Dishwasher Problems
When troubleshooting persistent problems, addressing component-specific issues like a faulty door latch, heating element, or control board can help restore your Whirlpool dishwasher’s performance.
Door Latch Problems
The dishwasher door latch is a common trouble area. First, make sure the latch is making proper contact and aligning correctly to seal the door. Check for any debris obstructing it. If the mechanism seems faulty, you may need to remove the inner door panel to take a closer look at the latch assembly.
Thermostat and Heating Element Problems
Another potential problem could be the thermostat that controls the dishwasher’s heating element. You can test the thermostat’s continuity with a multimeter. If you notice that it’s not operating within specifications, then it may likely need replacement. While at it, inspect the heating element for any cracks or burnt spots.
Electronic Control Board Issues
Many dishwasher problems sometimes stem from the all-important control board that serves as your dishwasher’s brain. If components seem to be receiving power inconsistently or not responding to inputs, the control board may be failing. Unfortunately, control boards are intricate and usually require full replacement if faulty.
6. Maintenance Tips for Preventing Future Whirlpool Dishwasher Issues
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – that old saying definitely applies to dishwashers, too! With some simple routine maintenance, you can help prevent many issues from occurring and extend the lifespan of your trusty Whirlpool dishwasher.
Regular Cleaning
- Interior Cleaning: Clean the interior of the dishwasher every few months to remove food particles, soap scum, and hard water deposits. Use a dishwasher cleaner or run a wash cycle with white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe cup on the top rack.
- Filter Cleaning: Clean the filter monthly to prevent clogs and ensure efficient drainage. Remove the bottom rack, take out the filter, rinse it under running water, and scrub it gently with a soft brush.
- Spray Arm Cleaning: Ensure the spray arms are free from clogs. Remove and rinse them under running water, using a toothpick to clear any blocked holes.
- Gasket Cleaning: Wipe the door gasket regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Inspect and Maintain Key Components
- Check the Door Seal: Inspect the door seal regularly for cracks or wear. A damaged seal can lead to leaks and should be replaced.
- Inspect the Racks: Look for rust or damage on the dish racks. Repair or replace any rusted or broken tines to prevent damage to dishes and ensure smooth operation.
- Maintain the Water Inlet Valve: Periodically check the water inlet valve for leaks or blockages. Ensure it’s functioning correctly to maintain proper water flow.
7. When to Call a Professional
Despite your best efforts at troubleshooting and maintenance, sometimes dishwasher issues are just too complex or hazardous to handle on your own. Here are some indicators it’s time to call in the professionals:
- You’ve gone through all the basic troubleshooting steps multiple times with no success
- Your dishwasher is displaying error codes you can’t decipher or fix
- You suspect an electrical issue like a faulty control board or wiring problems
- There are signs of major leaks that you can’t pinpoint the source of
- The dishwasher is making loud grinding or knocking noises during operation
- You’ve already replaced certain parts, but the issue persists
Contact Information for Whirlpool Service Centers
If you do need professional Whirlpool service, you can locate authorized repair technicians by calling the customer support line at 1-800-253-1301 or by visiting www.whirlpool.com and clicking “Request Service.”
Conclusion
By following these simple troubleshooting steps, many Whirlpool dishwasher problems can be resolved without the need for professional repairs. However, if you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to contact Whirlpool customer service for assistance.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
