My Whirlpool Dishwasher Start Button Not Working (4 Steps)

Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by River Tree Farms

A faulty dishwasher start button means that you likely won’t be able to use your appliance. If, in any case, you manage to use it, it means you won’t be able to start it normally. If your Whirlpool dishwasher start button is not working, you need to look into the issue and find a perfect solution.

While a faulty or stuck button is the most probable cause of this problem, this issue could also result from other factors. This article lists some factors that cause the dishwasher start button to fail. We will also explore various solutions to help you fix the issue.

Why Is My Whirlpool Dishwasher Start Button Not Working?

It is not unusual for a Whirlpool dishwasher start button to stop working. Several factors can cause this. They include; a faulty control board, an open door, key switch problems, and even a faulty start button. Remember, the start button can also fail due to many other reasons. Thus, rely on the Whirlpool dishwasher troubleshooting guide for more insights.

How Do I Fix the Start Button on My Whirlpool Dishwasher?

How Do I Fix the Start Button on My Whirlpool Dishwasher

As mentioned earlier, a start button that doesn’t work will make it difficult for you to use your dishwasher. The good news is that you can always use other means to activate a wash cycle. Even so, some methods may not be safe, convenient, and reliable.

1. Check The Power Supply

Provided the dishwasher is receiving power, pressing the start button should turn it on. In other words, if the appliance does not start when you press the start button, chances are that there is a power supply issue.

In such a case, you should first check the circuit breaker in the consumer unit. This will help you confirm that there is an active power connection. If there is no power, hire a service technician to rectify the power issue. Take note that a power outage can also cause this problem. 

2. Close the Door Correctly

The Whirlpool dishwasher has an awesome safety feature that involves the door. This feature prevents the appliance from starting whenever the door is open or loosely latched. This means that if the start button is not switching the machine on, the door could be open or latched incorrectly. Here, you need to close the dishwasher door the right way and press the start button.

3. Fix The Control Board

The main circuit board controls all dishwasher functions, including the function of the start button. Pressing the start button causes the appliance to turn on and run cycles. So, if the control board is faulty, the start button will also fail to respond to commands. If you establish that the control board is faulty, request service for either repair or replacement.

4. Reset The Dishwasher

Even a minor technical hitch can sometimes cause the power button to stop working. Here, a simple reset can help restart all the dishwasher functions and restore functionality. To reset your Whirlpool dishwasher, turn the power off for a few seconds, say 30, and turn it back on. Some models have a reset button that makes the process easier. 

How To Start Whirlpool Dishwasher Without Start Button?

It’s easy to start the Whirlpool dishwasher by pressing the start button. But, even with the Whirlpool dishwasher start button not working, you can still turn the appliance on. To turn the dishwasher on without a start button, follow these steps: –

  • Close the dishwasher door properly.
  • Ensure that power is reaching the start button as well as the control panel
  • Reset the dishwasher
  • Activate the water inlet valve to allow water to flow into the washing compartment.
  • Start the appliance by pressing the main wall switch

How Do I Reset the Control Panel on My Whirlpool Dishwasher?

A problem such as the control panel not working requires a simple yet quick resetting of the whole board. To reset the control panel, disconnect it from power for a few minutes and reconnect it. The dishwasher manual also contains clear control panel instructions. These instructions can guide you further when resetting the appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will my dishwasher turn on if the door is open?

With an open door, the dishwasher will not start. This safety feature ensures that the wash and dry cycles only run when the dishwasher door is closed. Remember, you will have issues running the washing cycle even if you close the door but don’t latch it properly. In such a case, pressing the start button may turn the appliance on, but it will not run complete dishwasher cycles.

2. What is the best way to reset the Whirlpool dishwasher?

The best way to reset the appliance is to turn the Whirlpool dishwasher’s power off. After a few minutes, switch it on again and run a test cycle. This process restarts the whole system and eliminates errors from the system. The user manual talks more about how to restart the appliance properly.

3. Can I replace a faulty start button?

A faulty start button will likely fail to activate the wash cycle in the dishwasher. If all the other parts function well, you will know you’re dealing with a faulty start button. In such a case, you’re free to replace this button. The start button can also get stuck inside the control panel casing. If this happens, call a technician to come and help.

Conclusion

If the Whirlpool dishwasher start button is not working and can ruin your day, you need quick solutions. You should choose the right solution depending on what’s causing the start button to fail.

For example, you can check the power supply and reconnect it or close the door well. You can also replace the main control board or reset the whole appliance. Call the right service technician if none of these tips solves the problem. This is the perfect option since it clears the room for making common yet costly mistakes. It also saves a lot of time.

However, you don’t need expert services for simple actions such as resetting the Whirlpool dishwasher.