Viking Dishwasher Won’t Start? Troubleshooting Tips You Need to Know

April 1, 2023

Viking Dishwasher Won't Start? Troubleshooting Tips You Need to Know | Professional Viking Repair

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Viking dishwasher won’t start? A dishwasher that won’t start can be frustrating, especially when you have a sink full of dirty dishes. There are several reasons why your Viking dishwasher may not be starting, but before you call a professional for Viking dishwasher repair, you can try some troubleshooting tips at home. This post walks you through some common causes and solutions for a Viking dishwasher won’t start. From checking the power supply to examining the control panel, we’ve got you covered!

1. Check the Power Supply

The dishwasher requires a consistent and sufficient electrical power supply to function properly. If there is an interruption or issue with the power supply, the dishwasher may not receive enough power, or it may start but then stop abruptly. 

How to do it:

  • Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
  • Check the power cord for any damage or wear.
  • Use a multimeter to test the power outlet for voltage.
  • If the outlet has no power, check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary.
  • If the outlet has power, but the dishwasher still won’t start, it may be a wiring issue that requires professional repair.

2. Inspect the Door Latch

A faulty door latch can prevent the dishwasher from starting as it may not be able to detect that the door is securely closed. This can cause safety concerns and may also lead to water leakage. A door latch can become faulty due to physical damage, wear and tear, or debris buildup in the latch mechanism.

How to do it:

  • Check for any physical damage to the latch and strike plate
  • Ensure proper alignment of the latch and strike plate
  • Remove any debris or obstruction from the latch mechanism
  • Lubricate the latch mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant, if necessary
  • Test the door to ensure that it closes securely and remains closed

3. Look for Clogs or Blockages

Clogs and blockages can prevent water from circulating properly within the dishwasher, leading to poor performance or a complete failure to start. The clog or blockage may be caused by debris or food particles accumulated within the Viking dishwasher filter, drain pan, or spray arm. Cleaning or clearing the clog or blockage can restore the proper functioning of the dishwasher.

How to do it:

  • Identify the location of the clog/blockage
  • Turn off the appliance or system before inspecting it
  • Remove any visible debris or blockages
  • Use a plunger or snake to remove any stubborn clogs
  • Turn the appliance or system back on to test its performance.

4. Check the Float Switch

The float switch is an important dishwasher component that helps detect the water level and prevent overfilling or flooding. If the float switch is faulty, it can cause the dishwasher not to start or result in continuous running. The float switch may become stuck due to debris buildup or can become physically damaged, affecting its proper functioning.

How to do it:

  1. Turn off the power to the appliance
  2. Locate the float switch and remove it from the appliance
  3. Inspect the float switch for physical damage or debris
  4. Test the switch for continuity using a multimeter
  5. If the switch fails the continuity test, replace it with a new one
  6. Reinstall the float switch and turn the power back on to the appliance.

Common Issues with Viking Dishwasher Timers and How to Troubleshoot Them

The timer is the heartbeat of a Viking dishwasher, dictating the length of each wash cycle. However, when the timer fails, it can cause major headaches, such as cycles that won’t start, complete, or run too long. If you’re having issues with your Viking dishwasher timer, keep reading. Let’s explore some of the most common timer problems and provide troubleshooting tips to help you restore your dishwasher to working order.

  • Malfunctioning or Faulty Timer Motor
    • Inspect the timer motor for physical damage
    • Test the timer motor for continuity using a multimeter
    • Replace the timer motor if it fails the continuity test
  • Broken Timer Knob
    • Check the timer knob for cracks or damage
    • If the timer knob is damaged, replace it with a new one
  • Issues with Timer Contacts
    • Inspect the timer contacts for physical damage or corrosion
    • Clean the timer contacts using electrical contact cleaner
    • If the timer contacts are damaged, replace the timer assembly.

However, even if you tried these troubleshooting tips and still your Viking dishwasher won’t start, don’t worry! Our team at Professional Viking Repair is here to help. Our experienced technicians have the skills and knowledge to diagnose and repair all Viking dishwasher issues, from the dishwasher drain pump failure to not working at all. So don’t let a malfunctioning dishwasher disrupt your daily routine – contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you get your dishwasher back to peak performance! We also offer the best Viking range repair, Viking microwave repair, Viking stove repair, and Viking oven repair!

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