Dishwasher Not Turning On

No Power at the Mains Socket

The most common cause. A tripped circuit breaker, a blown fuse in the plug or a faulty mains socket can all prevent the machine from receiving power, leaving it completely unresponsive.

Door Not Fully Closed

The dishwasher will not start if the door is not properly latched. The door switch must register the door as securely closed before the cycle can begin.

Child Lock Activated

Many dishwashers have a child lock or control lock that prevents the controls from responding. If activated, the machine will appear completely unresponsive. Check your user manual to find out how to deactivate it.

Flood Protection Device Triggered

If water has leaked internally and collected in the base tray, the flood protection device will have prevented the machine from starting. The base tray must be emptied before the machine will operate — this requires professional attention.

Delay Start Programme Set

Some dishwashers have a delay start function. If this has been set accidentally, the machine will not start immediately but will wait until the programmed time. Cancel the delay and restart.

Faulty Door Switch or Control Board

If the door switch or main control board has failed, the machine will not power on even when everything else is in order. Both require professional diagnosis and replacement.

Check the Mains Supply

Ensure the plug is firmly in the socket and the socket is switched on. Test the socket with another appliance. Check your consumer unit for any tripped circuit breakers and reset if necessary.

Check the Plug Fuse

Inspect the fuse in the plug and replace if blown. Dishwashers typically require a 13 amp fuse — always replace with the correct rating.

Check the Door

Open and firmly reclose the door, ensuring it latches correctly. Try pressing the power button again — the machine will not start unless the door switch is fully engaged.

Check for Child Lock

Refer to your user manual to check whether the child lock is activated and how to turn it off. The deactivation method varies between models.

Check for Delay Start

Check whether a delay start programme has been set accidentally and cancel it if so. Refer to your user manual for instructions on cancelling the delay on your specific model.

Reset the Machine

Switch the dishwasher off at the mains and leave it unplugged for a few minutes. Plug back in and try again to clear any temporary electronic faults.