What causes a dishwasher to turn off while in use? A common issue with dishwashers is that they turn off during a wash cycle. Your dishwasher might stop while in use and you have to start the process all over again or the dishwasher stopped mid cycle before finishing a wash cycle. We will go through all the issues that can cause the dishwasher to shut off and give you step-by-step solutions to fix it.
Dishwasher shuts off during wash cycle – How to fix?
What can cause a dishwasher to turn off? Issues that can cause the turning-off problem can be user error, the start button, the door latch, a thermal fuse, a power cord problem, a power supply issue, a blockage in the bottom of the dishwasher, the main control board is faulty, or a pump issue.
How to troubleshoot a Dishwasher that turns off while using it?
Why Is My Dishwasher Stopping Mid-Cycle?
Dishwasher user error:
The first thing to check is whether you have the dishwasher correctly loaded and the door has been properly closed. If the door isn’t properly closed, the dishwasher won’t start, stop working, or may turn off while in use.
Check the start button:
Most dishwashers have a start/stop button which needs to be pressed firmly to activate the dishwasher. Verify that the start button isn’t sticking, or that it is not being unintentionally pressed when trying to open or close the door.
Ensure that the latch is closing:
Dishwasher door latch. Be sure the door latch assembly is in working order. In addition to hitting the power button, a dishwasher will turn on when its door is closed and latched securely in place. If it is not turning on when the dishwasher door is opened and then shut, then it’s likely an issue with the mechanical parts of the latch. It will need to be tested with a multi-meter and replaced if found faulty.
Dishwasher Door Latch Doesn’t Work – Top 4 Reasons & Fixes
Check for signs of a thermal fuse:
Some models of dishwashers contain safety devices like thermal fuses designed to “trip” to prevent electrical dangers from occurring during operation and prevent fires from starting due to overheating elements. If a dishwasher has a tripped thermal fuse, the control panel may need to be reset before it will become operational again.
Dishwasher Won’t Start? Check Thermal Fuse
Re-plug the power cord:
The power cord should be plugged securely into the back of the dishwasher and a grounded wall outlet. Check if any other devices are connecting to that same outlet to make sure there’s not a short circuit, which in turn will disrupt the dishwasher’s power source. Many people seeking answers to this issue tell us that unplugging the dishwasher for 5 minutes, and plugging it back in again has fixed the problem.
The dishwasher breaker is tripping:
If the dishwasher breaker trips, it could be due to a short circuit or an overloaded circuit. Make sure the dishwasher is the only thing connected to that outlet and check for any damaged cords or wires. If everything looks good, then reset the breaker and try running a cycle. A tripped breaker will cause the dishwasher to not turn on.
Check for power at the control panel:
If none of the above solutions work, then there may be no power going to the control panel. Check for power at the wall outlet and if there is none, check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker in your home’s main electrical panel. If everything looks good in both places, then it’s likely an issue with the wiring inside your dishwasher.
Check for blockages:
Another possible cause of sudden spikes could be a blockage in the water inlet or outlet valves or any of its parts like the arms or soap trays. Confirm that no food residue is blocking the internal mechanisms of your dishwasher such as the drain pipes, water pumps or filters. A blockage can cause the dishwasher to turn off.
The dishwasher main board is faulty:
If the dishwasher is not turning on at all, the main board might be faulty. This could be due to a power surge or a faulty component on the board. It’s best to check with a professional to have this checked and replaced if necessary. If you have an issue with the dishwasher control panel buttons not working, see the video below.
Dishwasher Buttons Not Working?
The dishwasher pump is clogged or blocked:
If the dishwasher pump is clogged, it may disrupt the water flow, resulting in sudden spikes. To check for a clogged pump, check in the bottom of the dishwasher for any blockages. To get to the pump, remove the lower access panel and inspect the pump for any blockages or obstructions. If there are any clogs, clear them out and then reset the dishwasher.
How do I unblock my Dishwasher Pump?
Here is a quick breakdown of this article… If your dishwasher is turning off while in use, it could be due to a blockage, a faulty main board, or a clogged pump. Check for any blockages in the water inlet or outlet valves, and inspect the drain pipes, water pumps and filters for any food residue. If necessary, have a professional check the main board for faulty components.
Need help with any dishwasher that turns off while in use? Please let us know your exact problem using the comment box below and we will be happy to help!
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