Dishwasher: Won't fill
A dishwasher that doesn't fill with water when you press Start is little more than a place to hide dirty dishes. First, make sure that the water supply cut-off valve is open. If it is, try this easy fix: check whether an object is preventing the overfill float from moving up and down freely. If the float is stuck in its highest position, the fill valve won't let water into the tub.
If that doesn't take care of it, the overfill float switch or water inlet valve may be broken. A failed electronic control board or timer could also prevent the dishwasher from filling. Watch the dishwasher not filling video for more troubleshooting tips to resolve this problem.
These repairs may help solve your dishwasher problem
Replace the dishwasher water inlet valve
The water inlet valve, also called a solenoid fill valve, controls the flow of water into the dishwasher by opening and closing. If the water inlet valve doesn't open at all, water can't flow into the dishwasher. If it opens partially, the dishwasher won't fill adequately, and the water level will be low-a noisy pump is one indication that the water level is low. Conversely, if the water inlet valve won't close, water fills the dishwasher tub even when the dishwasher is off. If the water inlet valve doesn't open or close correctly, repair or replace it.
If water isn't flowing into the dishwasher, or if the water won't stop flowing, the water valve may have failed. This repair guide and video show you how to replace the dishwasher water valve yourself in less than 30 minutes.
Replace the dishwasher overfill float switch
The overfill float switch is located under the tub and is attached to the mushroom float inside the tub, which rises and lowers with the water level in the tub. When the overfill float switch detects that the water level is too high, it shuts off power to the water inlet valve, stopping the flow of water into the tub. Even if the mushroom float is working properly, the micro-switch could have failed. Replace the micro-switch if it fails.
If your dishwasher doesn't drain completely or if it won't fill at all, the problem could be the overfill float switch. The float switch detects how much water is in the bottom of the dishwasher. This repair guide and video show how to install a new one in less than 30 minutes.
Replace the dishwasher control panel
When the control panel, also called the control console, becomes visibly loose or damaged, replace it. A stuck button can also cause the dishwasher to become unresponsive. A light may flash constantly on the control panel when a button is stuck.
If the dishwasher buttons stick or don't work, the dishwasher control panel could be the problem. This DIY repair guide shows you how to replace the control panel in just 30 minutes.
Replace the dishwasher electronic control board
The electronic control board runs all dishwasher functions. If the electronic control board is getting voltage, but not operating properly, it should be replaced.
Because the electronic control board runs every stage of the dishwashing cycle, it's hard to know if the problem is the board or something it controls. If you or a repair technician determines the dishwasher control board is faulty, this repair guide and video show how to install a new one.
Replace the dishwasher timer
The timer controls the electro-mechanical components in the dishwasher such as the wash pump, drain pump, inlet water valve and heating element. The timer also advances the control knob on the control panel. Replace the timer if it fails to start and stop the components properly or fails to advance the control knob.
If a dishwasher isn't advancing through the wash, rinse, drain or dry cycles, chances are the dishwasher timer is to blame. This easy-to-follow repair guide shows you how to replace the timer yourself.
Upper spray arms not getting water? The diverter motor could be broken. Use this guide to replace it.
Follow these steps to replace the high-limit thermostat in your dishwasher if prevents the heating element from heating.
If the control panel goes blank, the fan could be to blame. Replace the vent and fan assembly using these steps.
Learn where to check for and remove clogs to get your dishwasher draining again.
Sometimes you just plain forget to turn the dishwasher switch on, but you might also need to check for faulty wire connections or user interface control.
Use a floor-mounting kit to fasten your dishwasher to the floor.