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Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser not working
Common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser is not working
The most common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser is not working are a broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a clogged water valve.
46% of the time it's the Detergent Dispenser
31% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
13% of the time it's the Water Valve
10% of the time it's the Something else
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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dishwasher
Detergent Dispenser Replacement
When the detergent dispenser isn’t working, it could have an internal failure preventing it from opening. An internal switch in the detergent dispenser releases the dispenser latch so a spring snaps the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, bad switch or defective latch can keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser when it isn’t working.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
When the dishwasher detergent dispenser is not working, a defective electronic control board could be causing the problem. Internal logic and relays in the electronic control board send electrical current to the dishwasher dispenser to open the lid latch and dispense the detergent. Corrupted internal logic or failed relays in the electronic control board could keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert examine the dishwasher and replace the electronic control board if it’s defective.
Water Valve Replacement
When the detergent dispenser isn’t working, it could have an internal failure preventing it from opening. An internal switch in the detergent dispenser releases the dispenser latch so a spring snaps the dispenser lid open during the cycle. A broken spring, bad switch or defective latch can keep the dispenser from working. Have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert replace the detergent dispenser when it isn’t working.
Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser not working?
A blocked dispenser cover, broken detergent dispenser, defective electronic control board or a wiring failure can prevent the dishwasher detergent dispenser from working.
Follow these troubleshooting tips to find and fix the cause of the dispenser failure.
Check for Items Blocking the Dispenser Cover from Opening
Follow the tips in this video that shows how to prevent items loaded in dishracks from blocking the detergent dispenser lid from flipping open.
Examine the Detergent Dispenser
Check the detergent dispenser for damage. If the cover or body is cracked or damaged, replace the dispenser.
Here’s a safe DIY video that shows how to replace the detergent dispenser in a dishwasher.
If you’re not completely confident that you can replace the detergent dispenser on your own or you’re unsure of the cause for the dispenser failure, schedule dishwasher repair to have a Sears Home Services technician visit your home and fix the problem.
What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dishwasher dispenser not working issue
How is the dispenser not working problem fixed?
Correcting most dispenser not working problems usually involves replacing the detergent dispenser, electronic control board or water valve. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.
Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher dispenser that is not working
When the dishwasher dispenser is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.
What to look out for with a dishwasher dispenser not working diagnosis
Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.
If your Whirlpool dishwasher leaves soap undispensed, broken dispenser latches or a failing actuator likely block detergent flow. This leads to half-cleaned dishes. Rather than coping with wasted detergent, contact dishwasher fix near me. A functional dispenser ensures each load gets the full cleaning power it needs.
What our customers say about us
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Thorough
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.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Repair Dishwasher Resources
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If you've ever encountered a dishwasher with standing water, you understand the frustration of a drainage issue.
If the dishes in your dishwasher are no longer getting clean, it could be the spray arm is clogged.
Glossary Terms
A dishwasher impeller is a rotating component within the dishwasher's pump that circulates water throughout the unit during a wash cycle, ensuring efficient cleaning by spraying water at high pressure.
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.