You have loaded the dishwasher, ready to start it. But there’s a problem. Your dishwasher will not start. Some of us have been there. It’s why we have come up with this guide that tells you the possible reasons why your Maytag dishwasher will not start and the possible ways to resolve these issues.
Beep sounds and lights flashing
After starting your dishwasher, the lights may keep flashing, and the sounds keep beeping. Yet, it does not perform its primary function: start and wash the dishes.
When this happens, it might be a result of several things. Check to confirm that you have not placed the dishwasher on a delayed start function. Delayed start allows you to load the dishwasher and set a cycle but not start it until a specific time has been completed.
To turn off the delayed start function, press the delay button once. Your dishwasher should start immediately.
Read ahead to find out more things that might be preventing your Maytag dishwasher from starting.
Dishwasher Delay Cycle, how it works, why use it and when to use.
Child Lock is ON
A control lock function prevents any unwanted use of the dishwasher. Most dishwashers come with this function, as it primarily guides against children or other people using the dishwasher.
When the child lock or the control lock function is on, the dishwasher does not start until it has been disabled.
Look out for a ‘control lock’ button, press it down for three seconds to disable the child lock on the Maytag dishwashers.
Repeat the action to place the dishwasher back on the control lock. Refer to your manual for more specific model instructions.
Power supply issues
A possible reason your Maytag dishwasher is not starting is that it is not getting power. Check to confirm that the dishwasher is connected to the proper electrical panel.
You can also turn off and on the electrical socket that the dishwasher is connected to.
If this does not work, you may need to test the electrical circuit for continuity in the sockets. A fuse may have blown.
If this is the case, you need to replace the spoilt fuse for you to get the dishwasher fully functional again.
Water supply issues
Another possible reason your dishwasher is not starting is that its water supply has been interrupted. Your dishwasher needs water to perform its most basic function: wash the dishes.
Inspect your water source and confirm that the water valve has been turned on.
Also, check your hose for clogs or kinks. Make sure the hose is not bent out of place in a way that hinders the easy flow of water.
You can also clear the clogs by running some warm and soapy water or some high-pressure water through the hose.
Door not latched / fully closed
One of the reasons your Maytag dishwasher is not starting might be because the door is not closed correctly.
This safety function has been programmed into the dishwasher by the manufacturer, and there is nothing you can do except you shut that door.
Inspect the dishwasher to check if there is any rack that is preventing the door from shutting correctly. Ensure the dishes have been arranged properly, and nothing is blocking the door.
Also, inspect the latch of the door. If faulty, it’s best to replace it, as the dishwasher will not start until the door is fully closed.
Door switch
The door switch is another possible reason why your Maytag dishwasher is not starting. The door switch detects when the dishwasher door is open and automatically stops the dishwasher from running.
However, when the door switch is faulty, it does not signal the dishwasher to be turned on when the door is closed.
To check your door switch for faults, you will need to unscrew the cabinet at the top of the dishwasher. Use any device of your choice to check for an electrical path in the switch.
If you find none, it’s best to replace the door switch.
Cycle settings
Some settings on your dishwasher are designed to make you get the best out of your favorite appliance. However, some of these settings also prevent your dishwasher from starting.
Some of the cycle settings that might prevent your dishwasher from starting are the control lock function, the sleep mode, and the delayed start.
Look out for a ‘control lock’ button, press it down for three seconds to disable the child lock on the Maytag dishwashers.
Press the ‘delay’ button once to disable it from the delayed start.
To disable the dishwasher from sleep mode, press the ‘start/resume’ button or open and close the door again.
Thermal fuse
The thermal fuse helps control overheating the dishwasher, specifically the control board. When the thermal fuse is faulty, the control board does not get power, making the dishwasher unable to start.
To check for the thermal fuse, you will need to open the door panel. It usually has about two wires attached to it.
Using an electrical device of your choice, check to detect any electrical path in the thermal fuse. If you do not notice any, it means the thermal fuse has probably blown, and it’s best to replace it.
Touchpad and control panel issues
There might be issues with your touchpad and control panel that might prevent the dishwasher from starting.
For instance, there is no way to issue a command to the dishwasher without using the touchpad. If you find that the dishwasher is not responding to some of your touch functions, the touchpad might be faulty.
You can order a replacement for a faulty touchpad.
Also, for issues with the touchpad and control panel, you can try unplugging the dishwasher and plugging it back in after a few seconds to see if that will solve the problem.
Possible timer issues
The timer controls various significant functions in the dishwasher. For instance, at the start of a wash cycle, the timer signals the dishwasher to drain itself.
Hence, when the timer is faulty, the dishwasher does not start, as it does not receive the primary signals to perform certain functions. The timer controls the drain pump.
However, a faulty timer is one of the last things you should look out for in a dishwasher that does not start. Before replacing the timer, be sure to cross out other things on the list.
Main control board issues
The control board is another last thing you should look for when your Maytag dishwasher does not start.
To inspect the control board, make sure to turn off the power connection to the dishwasher itself.
Some wires may be burnt in the control board, or it might just be other issues. However, because inspecting the control board for issues is very delicate, it might be best to have an experienced technician look at it.
If the control board is faulty, it’s best to order a replacement.
Maintenance and professional help
The secret to a long-lasting dishwasher is good maintenance. Regularly inspect the dishwasher for clogs, kinks, or other faults. Periodically check for any electrical damages to the dishwasher also.
Also, take extra precautions while performing any troubleshooting guide. Be sure to disconnect the power source and carry out any dishwasher inspection.
Also, it’s okay to ask for the help of an experienced technician at any point in which you get stuck trying to figure out what might be wrong with your dishwasher.
You may also refer to your user manual for more model-specific maintenance tips.
Conclusion
Your Maytag dishwasher not starting can be such a headache. Please go through this guide to figure out what might be wrong with your dishwasher and why it is not starting. This guide also covers common fixes to the issues raised. Reach out to an experienced technician if you require further help with your Maytag dishwasher.
