Dealing with a Hotpoint dishwasher that refuses to start can be incredibly frustrating.
Fortunately, with some basic troubleshooting, you can usually get your dishwasher up and running again quickly.
Today, I’ll walk you through the causes of why Hotpoint dishwasher won’t start and provide easy step-by-step instructions to get your appliance back in working order.
The most common reasons for your Hotpoint dishwasher not starting include faulty door latches, engaged control locks, power issues, & bad control boards.
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How to Fix Hotpoint Dishwasher Won’t Start?
You’ve loaded up your dishwasher and set the cycle, but then nothing.
It’s a common problem along with the Hotpoint dishwasher draining issue, but luckily, most reasons for a Hotpoint dishwasher not working are easily fixable. Let’s dive into the reasons and how to tackle them.
1. Power Supply Issues
Troubleshooting Hotpoint dishwasher problems often begins with power supply concerns.
If your Hotpoint dishwasher is unresponsive, it might be due to an unstable power source or interruptions.
How to Fix:
To ensure a stable power source, plug your dishwasher directly into a wall socket, avoiding long extension cords, which can cause power losses.
Regularly using a voltage tester will help assess if your dishwasher gets the required power.
Also, consider having an uninterruptible backup power system (UPS) to provide a consistent power source, especially in areas with frequent power outages.
If you’ve experienced issues with other brands, you know that even a Bosch dishwasher might not start for similar reasons.
2. Faulty Door/ Latch
Your Hotpoint dishwasher might think it’s open even if shut due to a faulty door or latch. This can prevent it from starting as it’s a built-in safety feature.
It’s not unlike problems other brands face; for instance, there are common issues where an Electrolux dishwasher won’t start either.
How to Fix:
First, inspect the door’s circuit breaker. If tripped, reset it. Check the door hinges for any looseness and tighten them if necessary. Adjust or replace the door latch if it’s not functioning well.
And if problems persist, consider contacting Hotpoint’s customer service for a professional touch.
3. Engaged Control Lock
A feature often overlooked when a Hotpoint dishwasher won’t start is the engaged control lock.
This feature is designed as a safety measure but can sometimes engage accidentally or malfunction, leaving your dishwasher unresponsive.
How to Fix:
If you suspect the control lock might be the culprit, you’ll first want to disengage it.
This can usually be done by pressing and holding the heated dry pad for a few seconds until the indicator lights go off.
During this process, be gentle. Excessive force on the control panel can cause further issues or damage the touchpad.
However, if the lock doesn’t disengage after several attempts or you find your Hotpoint dishwasher keeps turning off due to this feature, it might be a sign of critical issues.
4. Little or No Water Supply
Fixing a Hotpoint dishwasher not turning on sometimes relates to its water supply. Without adequate water, your dishwasher simply won’t run.
How to Fix:
Inspect for any blockages in water inlets or supply lines. Ensure there’s no clogging and the water pressure is sufficient.
If you identify any plumbing issues or blockages, it’s best to consult with a professional plumber.
5. Timer Malfunction
One of the more subtle culprits when troubleshooting a Hotpoint dishwasher not starting is the timer. This essential component dictates the various cycles of your dishwasher.
A malfunctioning timer can not only prevent the dishwasher from starting. It may also cause it to run the wrong cycles, which can be confusing and frustrating for users.
How to Fix:
Begin by unplugging your dishwasher for safety reasons. Once that’s done, you can access the timer behind the control panel.
Carefully inspect the timer for any signs of wear, especially on the connectors.
Over time, these connectors can corrode or damage due to water seepage or other factors.
Another common problem is burned contacts. If the timer’s contacts are burned or discolored, they might not make proper connections, preventing the Hotpoint dishwasher from running its intended cycle. Simply replace the timer if it is burned out.
Also, watch for any water leaks around the timer area, as water can cause significant damage over time.
6. Faulty Control Board
At the heart of your Hotpoint dishwasher’s operations lies the control board. Think of it as the brain of the machine.
If this board encounters issues or malfunctions, it could lead to your dishwasher starting problems, not responding to commands, or exhibiting erratic behavior.
How to Fix:
Safety first; ensure the power to your dishwasher is off. This might involve unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker. Once safe, access the control board within the door panel.
Conduct a visual inspection for any signs of damage, especially burned areas, which can indicate short circuits.
You can use a multimeter to test the incoming power. If you find the board is defective, consider replacing it.
Conclusion
It’s evident that a Hotpoint dishwasher stopped working can stem from a myriad of reasons, be it a simple power hiccup or a more complex component malfunction.
You’re now equipped with actionable insights to tackle each potential issue.
Remember that while DIY solutions are great, there’s no harm in seeking professional help when in doubt.
After all, ensuring your dishwasher’s longevity and optimal performance is the ultimate goal.
Take the steps mentioned to heart, and the next time your Hotpoint dishwasher won’t start, you’ll know just what to do.
If you have any other dishwasher and the same issue is bothering you, check out the following troubleshooting blogs:
- Fixing Maytag Dishwasher not starting
- Troubleshooting Thermador Dishwasher not starting
- KitchenAid dishwasher won’t start
Christopher Evans is a Mechanical Engineer and is a distinguished expert in tire and electronic appliance testing with over 15 years of experience. Holding certifications like Automotive Tire Service (TIA) and Certified Appliance Professional (CAP). He is also a member of the the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and has significantly contributed to safety standards and testing protocols in both industries. Evans is a respected speaker and award recipient.