4 Easy DIY Steps to Fix Your Dishwasher When it Won’t Power Up

Step 1: Check the Light Switch Beside the Kitchen Sink

Yes, restoring power to the dishwasher could be as simple as turning on a light switch beside your kitchen sink—the one next to the garbage disposal light switch. Many homes have that light switch installed to cut off power to the dishwasher. Turning on that light switch is the # 1 cure for a dead dishwasher.

Step 2: Reset the House Circuit Breaker for the Dishwasher

If Step 1 didn’t fix the problem, you’ll need to head to the circuit breaker panel in your home. This is usually located in the basement, garage, or utility room. It contains various switches or breakers that control the electrical power in your home.

Find the house circuit breaker marked for your dishwasher. Sometimes the markings on the house circuit breakers are vague so you might see it marked as “kitchen appliances” or “sink outlet”. Here's how to reset the breaker:

1. If the breaker is in the 'off' position, flip it to the 'on' position.
2. If it's already in the 'on' position, turn it off and then back on again.

This action will reset the circuit and hopefully restore power to your dishwasher.

If not, move on to Step 3.

Step 3: Check the Power Cord

When your dishwasher won't power up, another possible culprit is the power cord. Many dishwashers use a power cord that plugs into an electrical outlet under the sink. If you have this type of dishwasher, make sure the power cord is plugged securely in the electrical outlet. If the power cord is unplugged, then you’ve likely resolved the power issue with your dishwasher. Plug it back in and check for power.

If the dishwasher still won’t power up, move on to Step 4.

Step 4: Check the Dishwasher Electrical Outlet for Power

It’s possible that the electrical outlet doesn’t work. Check the electrical outlet for power by plugging in a small lamp. If it doesn't light up, have an electrician repair the bad outlet.

Schedule a Dishwasher Repair Service with Sears Home Services

When the dishwasher still doesn't power up after completing the above steps, then a blown fuse, defective user interface control, faulty power cord, failed electronic control board, broken wire or other dishwasher issue could be preventing the dishwasher from getting power. Have a Sears service technician examine and repair the dishwasher.

You’ll likely see the technician perform the initial troubleshooting steps described above and then move on to more advanced diagnostic techniques to find and fix the problem that’s preventing your dishwasher from powering up. Trust Sears Home Services to help you get your dishwasher working again in no time.