Dishwashers are an essential appliance in modern households, but what do you do when your Kenmore dishwasher won't start? It can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you have a pile of dirty dishes to wash. In this post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on troubleshooting your Kenmore dishwasher and offer tips to help you avoid similar issues in the future. So, if you're ready to say goodbye to dishwashing woes, keep reading!
Causes
Here's a list of the most common reasons why a Kenmore dishwasher may not start, along with a brief description of each issue:
- Door latch problem: If the door latch is not securely closed or is broken, the dishwasher won't start.
- Power supply issues: If the dishwasher is not receiving power, it won't start. This could be due to a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or a problem with the electrical outlet.
- Control panel issues: If the control panel is not functioning properly, it may prevent the dishwasher from starting. This could be due to a faulty control panel, a problem with the control board, or a problem with the wiring that connects the control panel to the control board.
- Start button issue: If the start button is not working, the dishwasher won't start. This could be due to a faulty button, a problem with the wiring that connects the button to the control board, or a problem with the control board itself.
- Water supply issues: If the dishwasher is not getting water, it won't start. This could be due to a clogged water inlet, a problem with the water supply valve, or a problem with the water supply line.
- Thermistor issue: If the dishwasher's thermistor is not working properly, it may prevent the dishwasher from starting. The thermistor is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the water in the dishwasher and ensuring it is at the correct temperature for optimal cleaning performance.
- Faulty timer: If the dishwasher's timer is not working properly, it may prevent the dishwasher from starting. The timer controls the length of the dishwashing cycle and is an important component in ensuring proper operation of the dishwasher.
I hope this information helps you diagnose and troubleshoot the issue with your Kenmore dishwasher. If the problem persists, I would recommend consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Error codes
Here is a table listing common Kenmore dishwasher error codes and their explanations:
| Error Code |
Explanation |
| F1 |
Control Board Failure |
| F2 |
Drain Error |
| F3 |
Heating Error |
| F4 |
Water Supply Error |
| F5 |
Door Switch Error |
| F6 |
User Interface Error |
| F7 |
Flood Condition |
| F8 |
Motor Tachometer Error |
| F9 |
Wash System Error |
| F10 |
Air Gap Error |
| F11 |
Motor Control Error |
| F12 |
Turbidity Sensor Error |
| PF |
Power Failure |
Here's a brief explanation of each error code:
- F1 - Control Board Failure: This error indicates a failure with the control board, which is responsible for controlling the dishwasher's various functions and cycles.
- F2 - Drain Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's draining system, such as a clogged drain hose or a problem with the pump.
- F3 - Heating Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's heating system, such as a faulty heating element or a problem with the temperature sensor.
- F4 - Water Supply Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's water supply, such as a clogged water inlet or a problem with the water supply valve.
- F5 - Door Switch Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's door switch, which is responsible for detecting when the door is open or closed.
- F6 - User Interface Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's user interface, such as a faulty control panel or a problem with the wiring that connects the control panel to the control board.
- F7 - Flood Condition: This error indicates that the dishwasher has detected a water leak or overflow, which can be caused by a clogged drain hose, a problem with the pump, or a damaged tub.
- F8 - Motor Tachometer Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's motor tachometer, which measures the speed of the motor and is used to control the dishwasher's various functions and cycles.
- F9 - Wash System Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's wash system, such as a clogged wash arm or a problem with the wash pump.
- F10 - Air Gap Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's air gap, which is responsible for preventing waste water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
- F11 - Motor Control Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's motor control system, such as a faulty motor control board or a problem with the wiring that connects the motor control board to the control board.
- F12 - Turbidity Sensor Error: This error indicates a problem with the dishwasher's turbidity sensor, which measures the amount of solids in the dishwasher's wash water and helps to control the wash cycle.
- PF - Power Failure: This error indicates a power failure, which can be caused by a blown fuse, a tripped circuit breaker, or a problem with the electrical outlet.
I hope this table helps you understand the various error codes that your Kenmore dishwasher may display, and what they may indicate as a potential issue. If the problem persists, I would recommend consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Step-by-step instruction
Here is a step-by-step guide on troubleshooting a broken Kenmore dishwasher:
- Check for power supply: Before you start troubleshooting, make sure that your dishwasher is properly plugged in and that there is power supply to the outlet.
- Check the door switch: Ensure that the dishwasher door is properly closed and latched. If the door is not closed properly, the dishwasher will not start.
- Check the control panel: Make sure that all buttons and controls on the dishwasher's control panel are functioning properly and that there are no error messages displayed.
- Check the water supply: Make sure that there is enough water pressure and that the water supply valve is fully open. If there is a problem with the water supply, the dishwasher will not start.
- Check the electrical connections: Make sure that all electrical connections are secure and that there are no loose wires or damaged connectors.
- Check the pump and drain: Make sure that the pump and drain are functioning properly. A clogged drain or pump can prevent the dishwasher from starting.
- Check for error codes: If the dishwasher is displaying an error code, refer to the table in my previous answer for an explanation of the code and potential causes.
- Check the heating element: If the dishwasher is not heating the water, check the heating element for any signs of damage or a broken connection.
- Call for professional help: If you are unable to resolve the issue, it may be necessary to call a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and repair the dishwasher.
I hope these steps help you troubleshoot and fix your broken Kenmore dishwasher. If you are unsure about any part of the process or need additional assistance, it is always a good idea to consult a professional appliance repair technician.
If nothing helped
If the above troubleshooting steps did not resolve the issue with your Kenmore dishwasher, you may want to consider the following alternative solutions:
- Replace the dishwasher: If the dishwasher is beyond repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new one rather than paying for expensive repairs.
- Use a dishwasher repair service: If you are not confident in your ability to diagnose and repair the dishwasher yourself, you can use a professional dishwasher repair service. These services can diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.
- Wash dishes by hand: If the dishwasher is not working, you can wash dishes by hand until it can be repaired or replaced. This is a good alternative solution for those who don't want to spend money on repairs or a new dishwasher.
- Use a dish drying rack: You can use a dish drying rack to air dry your dishes instead of relying on the dishwasher's drying cycle. This is a good alternative solution for those who want to conserve energy and reduce their carbon footprint.
I hope these alternative solutions help you find a solution to your dishwasher problem. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you avoid dishwasher issues with your Kenmore dishwasher in the future:
- Load the dishwasher correctly: Loading the dishwasher correctly can help prevent clogging and ensure that dishes are cleaned properly. Make sure to place larger items in the bottom rack and smaller items in the top rack.
- Use the right detergent: Using the right detergent can help prevent clogging, mineral buildup, and other issues. Make sure to use a dishwasher detergent that is specifically designed for use in dishwashers.
- Clean the dishwasher regularly: Regular cleaning of the dishwasher can help prevent mineral buildup, clogging, and other issues. Clean the interior of the dishwasher, including the spray arms, filters, and seals, at least once a month.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can cause dishes to not come clean, and can also lead to damage to the dishwasher's interior. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maximum loading capacity.
- Avoid using too much detergent: Using too much detergent can cause mineral buildup, clogging, and other issues. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the correct amount of detergent to use.
- Check and replace the dishwasher's filters regularly: Regularly checking and replacing the dishwasher's filters can help prevent clogging, mineral buildup, and other issues.
- Keep the dishwasher level: Keeping the dishwasher level can help prevent leaks and other issues. Make sure to level the dishwasher during installation and check its level periodically.
- Have regular maintenance performed: Regular maintenance can help prevent problems with the dishwasher and extend its lifespan. This can include checking and replacing the filters, cleaning the interior, and checking for leaks.
By following these tips, you can help avoid dishwasher issues with your Kenmore dishwasher in the future and ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
FAQ
My Kenmore dishwasher won't start, what should I do?
First, check to make sure that the dishwasher is properly connected to a power source and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If that doesn't resolve the issue, try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power for a few minutes and then turning it back on. If the dishwasher still won't start, check the door latch and control panel for any issues. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, consider using a professional repair service.
Why is my Kenmore dishwasher not starting?
There could be several reasons why your Kenmore dishwasher is not starting. Some of the most common causes include a lack of power, a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty door latch, a control panel issue, or a problem with the dishwasher's timer or control board.
How do I reset my Kenmore dishwasher?
To reset your Kenmore dishwasher, turn off the power to the dishwasher for a few minutes, and then turn it back on. If the dishwasher still won't start, try unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in.
My Kenmore dishwasher won't turn on, what should I do?
First, check to make sure that the dishwasher is properly connected to a power source and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If that doesn't resolve the issue, try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power for a few minutes and then turning it back on. If the dishwasher still won't turn on, check the door latch and control panel for any issues. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, consider using a professional repair service.
How can I troubleshoot my Kenmore dishwasher that won't start?
To troubleshoot a Kenmore dishwasher that won't start, first check the power source and circuit breaker. If that doesn't resolve the issue, try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power for a few minutes and then turning it back on. If the dishwasher still won't start, check the door latch and control panel for any issues. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, consider using a professional repair service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your Kenmore dishwasher not starting can be caused by several factors, including a lack of power, a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty door latch, a control panel issue, or a problem with the dishwasher's timer or control board. By following the steps in this guide, you can troubleshoot your dishwasher and resolve the issue. Remember to follow the tips we've provided to help you avoid dishwasher issues in the future, and if all else fails, consider seeking professional repair services.