Narrow it down
What this symptom can tell you
The controls are completely blank
The breaker, switch, outlet, plug, or household power may be the first safe check.
Lights work but the cycle will not begin
The door may not be latched, Control Lock or Delay Start may be active, or Start may require a press-and-hold.
The dishwasher beeps and stops
The controls may be reporting an open door, incomplete selection, or an error code.
These patterns narrow the next check; they do not confirm a failed part. Use the exact model number and any displayed code before ordering parts or authorizing repair.
Try these checks in order
Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.
- 1
Confirm power
Check that the dishwasher display or indicator lights respond. Reset the household breaker once if it has tripped.
What you want: The controls turn on and stay on. - 2
Close the door
Make sure a rack, pan, or utensil is not blocking the door. Push racks fully in and close the door firmly.
What you want: The latch engages without force. - 3
Cancel Control Lock
Look for a lock symbol or lit control name. Hold the listed button for the time shown in the manual.
What you want: The lock indicator turns off. - 4
Cancel Delay Start
A displayed number may be hours of delay. Cancel the cycle and choose a new normal cycle.
What you want: No delayed time remains. - 5
Select a cycle and press Start
Choose one cycle, press Start, then close the door within the time allowed by the model.
What you want: The wash or fill sound begins.
Most common categories
Possible causes to consider
- A tripped breaker, wall switch, loose plug, or interrupted power.
- A rack, utensil, or seal condition preventing the door from closing.
- Control Lock, Child Lock, Delay Start, or an incomplete cycle selection.
- A reset procedure required after an interruption.
- A latch, switch, control, wiring, or pump issue requiring service.
Stop and arrange help when
- The breaker trips again or the control smells hot.
- The door, latch, or hinge is cracked or misaligned.
- There is smoke, sparking, or water near wiring.
- The unit is hard-wired and power testing would require opening panels.
If the problem remains
Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.
Outcome check
Did these checks resolve the problem?
Your answer helps identify which guides need improvement. No appliance details are submitted.
Common questions
Dishwasher not starting: FAQs
Why does my dishwasher have lights but not start?
The most common owner-checkable causes are the door not being recognized as latched, a lock or delay setting, or a Start sequence that differs by model.
Where is the dishwasher power switch?
Some installations use a nearby wall switch or a plug under the sink, while others are hardwired. Do not open electrical boxes; use the installation information for the home.
Is it safe to reset the breaker?
A single reset may be reasonable if the breaker is not hot, damaged, or repeatedly tripping. Repeated trips require a qualified electrician or appliance technician.
Research and verification
Source basis
This general guide was reviewed against official manufacturer support libraries and safety guidance. Exact controls, access points, installation limits, and reset procedures vary by model; the manual for your exact model takes priority.
See something unclear or incorrect?
Send the page link, appliance model, and the detail that needs review.