Dishwasher Does Not Start But Motor Hums

Is your dishwasher refusing to start, yet you can hear the motor humming? This frustrating situation can be a sign of various underlying issues that need to be addressed. It is essential to troubleshoot and identify the root cause of the problem in order to effectively resolve it and get your dishwasher up and running again. When you encounter a situation where your dishwasher does not start but the motor hums, it typically indicates that the motor is receiving power but is unable to engage properly. This can be a result of a number of factors, such as a faulty motor, a jammed pump, or a broken pump belt. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as a clogged or malfunctioning switch or a disrupted power supply. To start troubleshooting the issue, the first step is to check the power supply to the dishwasher. Make sure that the dishwasher is properly plugged in and that the power source is functioning. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure that there is power running to the dishwasher. If the power supply is not the issue, then move on to inspecting the motor and pump components. One common reason for a dishwasher motor to hum but not start is a jammed pump. The pump is responsible for circulating water throughout the dishwasher during the wash cycle. If the pump becomes jammed or clogged with debris, it can prevent the motor from starting properly. To check for a jammed pump, turn off the power to the dishwasher and remove the lower dish rack. Look for any obstructions or debris in the pump area and remove them if present. Once the pump is clear, try starting the dishwasher again to see if the issue is resolved. If the pump is not the problem, the next likely cause could be a broken pump belt. The pump belt is responsible for connecting the motor to the pump and driving the water circulation. If the belt becomes worn or broken, it can prevent the motor from engaging properly. To check the pump belt, you will need to access the bottom of the dishwasher and remove the lower panel. Inspect the belt for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If the belt appears to be broken or damaged, it will need to be replaced in order to restore proper function to the dishwasher. In some cases, the issue may be with a malfunctioning or clogged switch. The switch is a safety feature that prevents the dishwasher from starting if the door is not properly closed. If the switch is clogged with debris or is faulty, it can prevent the motor from starting even when the door is securely closed. Check the switch for any visible obstructions or damage and clean or replace it as needed. Once the switch is resolved, try starting the dishwasher again to see if the issue is resolved. If none of the above solutions resolve the problem, it is possible that the motor itself is faulty and needs to be replaced. The motor is a critical component of the dishwasher that is responsible for powering the pump and circulating water throughout the appliance. A malfunctioning motor can prevent the dishwasher from starting properly, even if the motor is humming. In this case, it is best to contact a professional appliance repair service to inspect and replace the motor as needed. In conclusion, a dishwasher that does not start but the motor hums can be a frustrating and confusing issue to troubleshoot. By following the steps outlined above and inspecting the power supply, pump, pump belt, and switch, you can identify and resolve the root cause of the problem. In some cases, the issue may be a simple fix such as a clogged pump or switch, while in other cases, it may require replacing the motor. By addressing the issue promptly and effectively, you can get your dishwasher back up and running smoothly in no time.