Dishwasher not filling

Common reasons your dishwasher not filling

The most common reasons your dishwasher is not filling are a defective electronic control board, faulty pump and motor assembly or a damaged user interface control.

  • 38%

    38% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 17%

    17% of the time it's the
    Pump and Motor Assembly

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the
    User Interface Control

  • 32%

    32% of the time it's the
    Something else

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Common dishwasher repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these dishwasher parts may fix your problem.

Electronic Control Board Replacement

If your dishwasher isn't filling up, it might be due to a faulty electronic control board. Normally, this board sends electricity to the fill valve to fill the dishwasher. However, if a relay fails or the circuit board's logic becomes corrupted, it may stop sending the necessary electrical current. Diagnosing whether the electronic control board is indeed faulty can be challenging. To address this issue, consider scheduling a visit from a Sears Home Services Repair Expert to examine and repair your dishwasher when it's not filling up properly.

Pump and Motor Assembly Replacement

When your dishwasher isn't filling, consider inspecting the pump and motor assembly for faults, as a malfunction in the pump motor might be hindering the fill valve from receiving the necessary electrical current to open. Additionally, the electronic control might detect a defective pump motor and halt the filling process. You might notice an error code displayed or lights blinking on the control panel when a faulty pump and motor assembly is detected. To address this issue, schedule a service appointment when the dishwasher fails to fill and the pump and motor assembly isn't functioning properly.

User Interface Control Replacement

If your dishwasher isn't filling, a malfunctioning user interface control might be the culprit. This control links to the electronic control board via a wire harness and transmits signals to assist in managing the dishwashing cycle. If a key on the user interface control becomes stuck, it can lead to the electronic control board halting the cycle, rendering the dishwasher inoperative until the issue with the user interface control is resolved. To address this, arrange for a Sears Home Services Repair Expert to visit your home and replace the damaged user interface control.

What to expect when you experience a dishwasher not filling issue

How do I get the not filling problem fixed?

Addressing most issues with the dishwasher not filling typically entails replacing the electronic control board, pump and motor assembly, or user interface control. However, since there could be various causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem accurately. An accurate diagnosis is necessary for determining the cost of the repair.

Sears Home Services offers solutions for a dishwasher that is not filling

If the dishwasher isn't filling, there could be several reasons behind it. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Our technicians are skilled in diagnosing various types of dishwasher problems.

What to watch for with a dishwasher not filling diagnosis

Figuring out issues with modern appliances can be tough without the right knowledge and training. Simply swapping out parts without proper diagnostic methods won't effectively solve your dishwasher problem. Appliances, especially those made in the last decade, have become highly advanced, with electronic components that are challenging to assess. DIY repairs on these latest models are getting harder.

When your dishwasher stays dry throughout the cycle, a float switch jam or faulty inlet valve usually needs fixing. Plates remain dirty if no water’s added. Let dishwasher fix near me handle it.

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James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my dishwasher filling with water?
A clogged inlet valve, faulty overfill float switch, or a problem with the house water supply could prevent the dishwasher from filling with water. Inspect these components for damage or blockages.
Could a clogged inlet valve prevent my dishwasher from filling with water?
Yes, if the inlet valve is clogged, it can prevent water from entering the dishwasher. Cleaning or replacing the valve should resolve the issue.
How can I fix my dishwasher if it’s not filling with water?
Check the inlet valve, overfill float switch, and water supply for problems and blockages. Replacing any faulty parts should restore water flow to the dishwasher.
What should I do if my dishwasher still isn’t filling with water after cleaning the valve?
If the issue persists, the control board or water supply may need professional inspection and repair.

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Glossary Terms

A dishwasher sump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, serving as a collection point for water during the wash cycle. It houses the main pump and filter, facilitating the recirculation and drainage of water, essential for the cleaning process.

A dishwasher turbidity sensor is an advanced feature that measures the level of food particles and debris in the water, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the wash cycle length and water usage for optimal cleaning efficiency.

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

An astragal is a molding or strip that covers or seals the gap between the edges of a pair of doors or windows. Its primary functions are to provide a weather seal, improve security, and improve the aesthetic appearance of door and window assemblies.

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