What to do if the dishwasher does not turn on: main reasons
If the dishwasher does not turn on, you need to inspect the control board, circulation pump capacitor and other elements. But the reason may be simpler - then it is enough to make sure that the network cable and the door lock are intact. This material tells you what to do first and how to carry out repairs yourself.
The content of the article
Basic fault cases
If a dishwasher from Bosch or other manufacturers does not turn on, the “behavior” of the device may be different:
- In some cases, the unit starts and even fills water, but the washing itself does not proceed. As a rule, this is due to a breakdown of the heating element or circulation pump.
- The device turns on and the indicators on the screen light up. However, after pressing the “on” key The dishwasher does not start, i.e. it doesn't take in water and the cycle doesn't start. This can be explained by a malfunction of the water supply valve or a broken lock.
- The device turns on normally, but immediately after that the drain pump works, and the machine itself stops responding.This indicates that the automatic “aquastop” system has been activated, which prevents leaks. Therefore, if the dishwasher does not turn on, you should inspect the tray and completely drain the water, and then wipe it dry. If the problem recurs, you need to inspect the hose, pipes and other elements of the drainage system.
- It also happens that the Bosch dishwasher does not turn on at all, i.e. Not a single indicator lights up, there are no sounds. In this case, you need to check the presence of electricity and also inspect the plug and cord. The electronics may have failed due to a power surge. This is a more serious breakdown that will require calling a specialist to fix.
What to check first
If your Bosch dishwasher does not turn on, the reasons may be quite harmless. Some malfunctions can be fixed on your own, literally in a minute:
- Check that the plug is firmly seated in the socket.
- Plug another device into the outlet to make sure it is working properly.
- Check the fuse (“circuit breaker”) in the meter, which could have been blown due to high voltage.
- Make sure that the network cable (cord) is in order. It may become crushed - then a replacement will be needed; it is unsafe to use such a device.
- You can explain why the dishwasher doesn't turn on if the door is not closed tightly (as is the case with the washing machine). The lock may be faulty - then you will need to replace it.
More serious reasons
If the described methods did not help, and the Bosch dishwasher still does not turn on, this indicates a technical malfunction. In some cases, it is possible to repair it yourself, in others you will have to invite a specialist. The most common reasons are as follows.
Control module failure
If a Bosch dishwasher does not start, more than half of the cases are due to a broken control module. It can fail as a result of a voltage drop in the network or when droplets of moisture enter. As a result, the contacts burn out. In rare cases, a complete replacement of the processor board will be necessary.
Power button failure
When a Bosch dishwasher does not turn on, this may also be due to a breakdown of the power button or control sensor. This can happen due to careless pressing or in case of oxidation of the contacts. As a result, the device stops responding to commands. It is necessary to disassemble it, clean the contacts or install new ones.
Lock failure
If the dishwasher does not start, it is possible that it is not the electronics that are broken, but the lock that secures the door. As a result, it does not close all the way or does not close at all, so the wash cycle does not begin. Most often, repairs come down to replacing an element.
The circulation pump capacitor is broken
Normally, this element starts the pump motor, but sometimes it can fail, causing the wash to not start. The main symptom is extraneous sounds (the unit is humming). It may also stop working completely - in such cases, inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the part is required.
Damage to wiring or contacts
If there is a break in the circuit, there is no contact with the control unit, so the indicators do not light up, and there is no reaction when pressing the buttons. This happens over time as the wiring gradually wears out due to vibration. It can also be damaged by mice, which is important for private homes. This may explain why a Bosch or other manufacturer's dishwasher does not turn on.
In this case, you need to ring the wiring and inspect it to make sure it is intact. If some of the contacts are oxidized or burnt out, they are cleaned or the cable is completely replaced.
DIY repair
Once the reason why the dishwasher does not start is found, it is necessary to begin repairs. In some cases, if the damage is not very serious, you can do it yourself.
Replacing the start button
If you can explain why the dishwasher does not start by saying that the start button is broken, you should replace it. To do this, proceed as follows:
- Turn off the device.
- Inspect the control panel.
- If the button is stuck, it can be carefully pulled out using a screwdriver or other thin object.
- If water or detergent gets in, it is necessary to clean it.
- The panel is disassembled and “ringed” using a multimeter.
- If there is no reaction, it is clear why the dishwasher does not turn on. The button will need to be cleaned or replaced.
Replacing the capacitor
If the capacitor breaks and your Bosch dishwasher won't turn on, here's what to do first:
- Turn off the device, turn off the tap, disconnect the hose.
- Remove the panel that is located under the door.
- Open the hopper door, remove the spray arm and filter.
- If your Bosch dishwasher does not turn on or light up, place it on the back panel.
- Unscrew each tray screw, wiring (if any) and dismantle it.
- Find the capacitor attached to the circulation pump.
- Inspect it carefully - it may be burnt. After this, “ring” the contacts with a multimeter.
- Inspect the wiring and integrity of contacts. If necessary, install a new capacitor.
Control module repair
If your Bosch dishwasher won't turn on, the problem may be electronic. This is a serious case that requires professional repair. If you have the skill, you can do it yourself. The sequence of actions is as follows:
- Open the door.
- Remove each bolt.
- Close the door and remove the panel from the outside.
- Remove the wiring. You need to take a few photos first so you don’t forget how to put the elements back together later.
- If there is burnout on the board, the contacts must be replaced. If too many are damaged, the board may need to be replaced. Otherwise, the Bosch dishwasher will not start.
When the Bosch dishwasher does not turn on, the control panel stops responding and not a single indicator lights up. This clearly indicates an electronics failure. On the other hand, other elements may also be affected. If the exact cause cannot be determined, you must contact the service center.