Dishwasher Stopping Mid-Cycle
If your dishwasher is stopping mid-cycle, the appliance has detected a fault and paused or abandoned the programme as a precaution. There are several possible causes, many of which can be investigated at home before calling an engineer.
View all dishwasher error codes
Find Your Brand
Select your dishwasher brand below for a specific guide including the relevant error codes for your appliance.
Why Is My Dishwasher Stopping Mid-Cycle?
When a dishwasher stops mid-cycle it is usually because the appliance has detected a fault and stopped as a precaution. The machine may display an error code — check the brand-specific guide above for the relevant codes for your appliance. In some cases the cause is straightforward and can be resolved at home.
Common Causes
Drainage fault
One of the most common causes. If the filter is blocked or the drain hose is kinked, the machine cannot drain during the cycle and will stop. Check the bottom of the tub for standing water — if present, a drainage fault is likely.
Water supply issue
If the water supply is interrupted or the inlet valve cannot fill the machine to the required level, the programme will stop.
Door opened mid-cycle
If the door is opened during a cycle, the dishwasher will pause immediately. Close the door firmly and press the Start button to resume — on most machines the cycle will continue from where it left off.
Flood protection device triggered
If water has leaked into the base tray, the flood protection device will stop the machine immediately. This will need to be investigated and resolved before the machine will run again.
Heating fault
If the water does not reach the required temperature within a set time, the machine will stop the cycle as a safety precaution.
Power supply interruption
A brief power cut or voltage fluctuation can cause the machine to stop mid-cycle.
Faulty control board
A fault with the main control board can cause the machine to stop unpredictably at any point in the cycle.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Check for an error code
Note any error code displayed on the machine and check the brand-specific guide above to identify the specific fault.
Clean the filter
Remove the filter assembly from the bottom of the tub, rinse thoroughly under running water and refit securely.
Check the water supply
Ensure the water supply tap under the sink is fully open and the inlet hose is not kinked.
Check the door
Ensure the door is fully closed and latching correctly. Try opening and firmly reclosing the door before restarting.
Reset the machine
Switch the dishwasher off at the mains and leave it unplugged for a few minutes. Plug back in and try restarting the cycle.
When To Contact A Professional
If the dishwasher continues to stop mid-cycle after the above checks and no clear cause can be identified, the fault is likely electronic or mechanical and will need to be diagnosed by a qualified engineer. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Dishwasher Fault Guides
Dishwasher Not Filling With Water
Related Guides
Dishwasher error codes — all brands
Washing machine stopping mid-cycle
🔧 Need a spare part? Find compatible parts for your appliance on Amazon with next day Prime delivery. Please double-check the part is compatible with your specific model before ordering. Find parts on Amazon
♻️ Not worth repairing? If your appliance has had its day, eco-friendly refurbished appliances are available at Renew 2 U — better for your wallet and the planet.