What To Know
- To check if the water inlet valve is clogged, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher and disconnect the water line.
- To check if the drain pump is clogged, remove the access panel at the bottom of the dishwasher and inspect the pump for any debris or buildup.
- If the water pump is worn out, the dishwasher will not be able to circulate the water and wash the dishes.
If your Whirlpool dishwasher has stopped washing, leaving you with a pile of dirty dishes, you’re not alone. This common issue can be frustrating, but it’s often easy to fix with a little troubleshooting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons why a Whirlpool dishwasher won’t wash and provide step-by-step instructions on how to resolve each issue.
Water Supply Problems
Clogged Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve allows water to enter the dishwasher. If it becomes clogged, the dishwasher will not be able to fill with water and wash the dishes. To check if the water inlet valve is clogged, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher and disconnect the water line. If water does not flow out of the water inlet valve when you open it, it is likely clogged. Clean the valve by removing any debris or buildup.
Kinked or Crushed Water Line
The water line that connects the dishwasher to the water supply can become kinked or crushed, restricting the flow of water. Inspect the water line for any kinks or crushes and straighten it out if necessary.
Drain Problems
Clogged Drain Hose
The drain hose carries dirty water away from the dishwasher. If the drain hose becomes clogged, the dishwasher will not be able to drain the water and wash the dishes. To check if the drain hose is clogged, disconnect it from the dishwasher and check for any blockages. Clean the hose by removing any debris or buildup.
Clogged Drain Pump
The drain pump pumps the dirty water out of the dishwasher. If the drain pump becomes clogged, the dishwasher will not be able to drain the water and wash the dishes. To check if the drain pump is clogged, remove the access panel at the bottom of the dishwasher and inspect the pump for any debris or buildup. Clean the pump by removing any debris or buildup.
Electrical Problems
Faulty Power Switch
The power switch turns the dishwasher on and off. If the power switch is faulty, the dishwasher will not receive power and will not be able to wash the dishes. To check if the power switch is faulty, use a multimeter to test for continuity. If there is no continuity, the power switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
The circuit breaker protects the dishwasher from electrical overload. If the circuit breaker trips, the dishwasher will not receive power and will not be able to wash the dishes. To check if the circuit breaker has tripped, locate the electrical panel and flip the breaker back to the “on” position.
Other Problems
Faulty Dishwasher Control Board
The dishwasher control board is the brain of the dishwasher. It controls all of the dishwasher’s functions, including the wash cycle. If the dishwasher control board is faulty, the dishwasher will not be able to wash the dishes. To check if the dishwasher control board is faulty, use a multimeter to test the voltage at the control board. If there is no voltage, the control board is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Worn-Out Water Pump
The water pump circulates the water through the dishwasher. If the water pump is worn out, the dishwasher will not be able to circulate the water and wash the dishes. To check if the water pump is worn out, listen for a humming sound when the dishwasher is running. If you do not hear a humming sound, the water pump is likely worn out and needs to be replaced.
Recommendations
If your Whirlpool dishwasher won’t wash, there are several potential causes. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and fix the issue quickly and easily. Remember, if you are not comfortable working on your dishwasher, it is always best to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Whirlpool dishwasher fill with water but not wash?
There could be a problem with the water pump or the dishwasher control board.
Why does my Whirlpool dishwasher not drain?
The drain hose or drain pump could be clogged.
Why does my Whirlpool dishwasher not turn on?
The power switch could be faulty or the circuit breaker could have tripped.
