Whirlpool Dishwasher Lights Flashing And Will Not Start

We all rely on our home appliances to make our lives easier. Whether you’re handling the week's laundry or needing to clean a load of dishes after a big family meal, these machines are essential for our lifestyle. However, they’re not invincible, and we often encounter issues that interfere with their optimal performance. Whirlpool is a well-known brand that's reputable for delivering top-tier appliances, including dishwashers. But just like any other appliance, a Whirlpool dishwasher can malfunction. A common problem homeowners face is having the dishwasher lights flashing but the machine not starting. Seeing your dishwasher's indicator lights unexpectedly blinking can be baffling and frustrating, especially when the machine doesn't respond to your attempts to start it. Let's delve into this issue further and provide you with some potential solutions to restore your dishwasher back to normal. Specifically, the problem of Whirlpool dishwasher lights flashing and the unit not starting is often traceable to issues with the controls, power sources, or internal components. Below are some of the steps that you can take to try to resolve these problems. Firstly, check the control lock feature on your dishwasher. Whirlpool dishwashers have a control lock feature that is activated or deactivated by pressing and holding the heated dry button for around three seconds. If the control lock light is lit or blinking, this is probably why your dishwasher is not responding to start commands. Deactivate the control lock and try again. Secondly, ensure that the dishwasher is properly connected to power. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective, and a power connection issue could be the reason why your dishwasher is not responding. Ensure the dishwasher is firmly plugged into the outlet, and check whether your circuit breaker might have tripped. If neither of the above solutions work, it may be indicative of a more complex problem. Such cases are often related to malfunctioning internal components such as the door latch, thermal fuse, control panel, or timer. A faulty door latch or door switch may prevent the dishwasher from starting. If the door isn't secured properly, the unit senses that the door is open and prevents the cycle from starting. Resolving this may require a replacement latch. Similarly, the thermal fuse is a standard safety feature in dishwashers and prevents the machine from overheating. It shuts down the dishwasher if it exceeds a certain temperature. If the thermal fuse blows, the dishwasher won't start until the fuse is replaced. The control panel and timer are two critical components for starting a dishwasher. The control panel sends a signal to the timer, which regulates most of the functions in the dishwasher. If these elements are defective, your dishwasher may not start. If the dishwasher lights are flashing, it might indicate a software glitch or electrical issue. The control panel may need to be reset or replaced, so consider seeking professional assistance to avoid causing more damage. It's important to mention that, while these potential solutions are suitable for Whirlpool dishwashers stuck in the 'lights flashing and will not start' conundrum, the best course of action if your dishwasher fails to work despite your best efforts is to reach out to a professional appliance repair service. These experts can diagnose and fix issues accurately, saving you from the risks associated with improper troubleshooting, which might worsen the problems or void your warranty. After all, the goal is to get your dishwasher up and running as quick as possible to save you from the dread of washing dishes by hand! In conclusion, encountering issues with your dishwasher can be frustrating, especially when lights keep flashing and the unit refuses to start. Whether your Whirlpool dishwasher woes are due to a control lock, power connection issue, or a faulty internal component, it's essential to handle the situation promptly to prevent further inconveniences. Remember, professional help is the best bet to ensure the problem is properly diagnosed and fixed.