Dishwasher Buttons Not Working? Dishwasher Troubleshooting
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Common solutions for: Dishwasher buttons/controls not working
01 - Touchpad and Control Panel
First, ensure that the display works. If the dishwasher display is working but the some of the button don’t respond correctly, the touchpad and control panel might need to be replaced. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
If there are no indicator lights or any noise from the dishwasher when it is turned on, it is likely that power is not reaching the dishwasher. Check the circuit breakers and GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets, if applicable, to confirm they have not tripped, or inspect any fuses to confirm none have blown. Plugging the unit’s power cord into a ground fault outlet is not recommended, but such an outlet can be reset to restore power by pressing in the button on the faceplate.
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03 - Dishwasher in lock mode
Many dishwashers have a child lock or “Sabbath” feature which will prevent the buttons from being used when the feature is engaged. The dishwasher could also be in “Demo” mode or another mode which prevents full operation. Consult the dishwasher’s user manual for information regarding locking/unlocking the control panel.
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04 - Door Latch
If the dishwasher buttons aren't working, it's possible the door latch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from being started. Inspect the door latch for any damage. you can also use a multimeter to test the micro switch inside the door latch for electrical continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, the switch or latch assembly should be replaced.
If the dishwasher lights are flashing or blinking or there is a fault code in the display window, consult the user manual or do an on-line search to find out more information about the error.
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06 - Power reset
After a power surge or power outage, dishwasher operation could be temporarily affected. Full operation can sometimes be restored through a power reset by turning the power to the unit off for a few minutes and then back on. If the dishwasher is not receiving any power at all, consult a technician for service.
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07 - Door Switch
If the dishwasher buttons aren't working, it's possible a door switch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from being started. To determine if the door switch is at fault, use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.