How to Reset Whirlpool Dishwasher: A Simple Guide!

Is your Whirlpool dishwasher acting up? Freezing mid-cycle, displaying error codes, or just not starting? Often, a simple reset can resolve these common issues. You don’t always need a technician. This guide will walk you through how to reset your Whirlpool dishwasher and get it back to sparkling clean dishes.

Why Does a Dishwasher Need a Reset?

Modern dishwashers are complex appliances. They have electronic controls, sensors, and pumps. Just like your computer or phone, sometimes these systems can get overwhelmed or encounter minor glitches. A reset essentially performs a reboot of the dishwasher’s control board. This clears temporary errors and allows the system to restart fresh.

Common reasons a reset might be needed:

• Power surges: Irregular power can confuse the control panel.
• Minor software glitches: The internal programming can sometimes get stuck.
• User error: Incorrect button presses or cycle selections can lead to a lockout.
• Sensor malfunctions: A sensor might temporarily report false information.

A Brief of Your Whirlpool Dishwasher’s Control Panel

Before we dive into the reset methods, let’s briefly look at typical Whirlpool dishwasher control panels. While models vary, most have common elements:

• Cycle selection buttons: Heavy, Normal, Light, Sensor, etc.
• Option buttons: Heated Dry, Sani Rinse, Delay Start, etc.
• Start/Resume button: Initiates or resumes a cycle.
• Cancel/Drain button: Stops a cycle and often drains the water.
• Control Lock button: Prevents accidental button presses.
• Display screen: Shows cycle status, time remaining, or error codes.

Familiarizing yourself with these buttons will make the reset process smoother.

Methods to Reset Your Whirlpool Dishwasher

There’s no single “reset button” on a Whirlpool dishwasher. Instead, there are several methods. The best one depends on your specific model and the problem you’re facing. We’ll cover the most common and effective techniques.

Method 1: The Power Cycle (Most Common and Easiest)

This is the most frequent and often successful method. It’s like turning your computer off and on again.

1. Open the dishwasher door.
2. Locate your home’s circuit breaker box. This is usually in your garage, basement, utility closet, or outside.
3. Find the breaker labeled for your kitchen or dishwasher. If it’s not labeled, you might need to flip breakers one by one until the dishwasher loses power.
4. Turn off the dishwasher’s circuit breaker. Wait for at least 1-5 minutes. This allows the control board to fully discharge any residual power.
5. Turn the circuit breaker back on.
6. Close the dishwasher door.
7. Try to start a new cycle.

Why this works: Cutting the power directly to the appliance forces a hard reboot of the internal electronics. It clears any temporary errors.

Method 2: Using the “Cancel” or “Cancel/Drain” Button

Many Whirlpool models allow you to reset the current cycle or clear an error using the control panel itself.

1. Locate the “Cancel” or “Cancel/Drain” button. On some models, this button might also be labeled “Start/Cancel” or “Drain.”
2. Press and hold the “Cancel” button for approximately 3-5 seconds.
3. Listen for a beep or observe the lights on the control panel. The dishwasher should begin a drain cycle (if there’s water inside) and then the lights should reset.
4. Release the button.
5. Wait about 30 seconds for the system to fully reset.
6. Close the dishwasher door and try to start a new cycle.

Note: If your model has a “Start/Resume” button that also functions as a cancel button, a quick press and release might stop the current cycle, while a longer press performs a reset. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model.

Method 3: Specific Button Combinations (For Certain Models/Errors)

Some Whirlpool dishwashers have specific button sequences that can initiate a reset or clear an error code. These are less common but important to know. Always consult your owner’s manual for your specific model.

Here are a few examples of common button combinations (these may not apply to all models):

• Three Button Press (often for control lock or general reset):
  1. Press any three buttons on the control panel (excluding “Start/Resume”) in sequence: Button 1, Button 2, Button 3.
  2. Repeat this sequence two more times (Button 1, Button 2, Button 3, then Button 1, Button 2, Button 3).
  3. The control panel lights might flash, or you’ll hear a beep. This often clears error codes or a control lock.
• High-Temp Wash + Heated Dry (for certain error codes):
  1. Press the “High-Temp Wash” button.
  2. Press the “Heated Dry” button.
  3. Press the “High-Temp Wash” button again.
  4. The dishwasher may then enter a diagnostic mode or reset.
• Power + Start/Resume (less common):
  1. Press and hold the “Power” button.
  2. While holding “Power,” press and hold the “Start/Resume” button for a few seconds.
  3. Release both buttons.

Important: Experimenting with random button presses can sometimes make the problem worse. Stick to the methods outlined in your owner’s manual or widely accepted practices for your model.

Method 4: Addressing the Control Lock

If your dishwasher display shows “LOC,” “L,” or flashing lights, it might be in Control Lock mode. This isn’t an error, but a feature to prevent accidental starting or stopping.

1. Locate the “Control Lock” button. It’s often labeled with a padlock icon.
2. Press and hold the “Control Lock” button for 3-5 seconds.
3. The “LOC” indicator should disappear, and you should be able to operate the dishwasher normally.

Sometimes, a power cycle (Method 1) can also clear a stuck control lock.

What to Do After a Reset

After performing a reset, it’s crucial to check if the issue is resolved.

1. Close the dishwasher door firmly.
2. Select a basic wash cycle (e.g., “Normal” or “Light”).
3. Press “Start/Resume.”
4. Listen for the dishwasher to start filling with water and begin the wash cycle.
5. Observe the control panel. Are the lights normal? Is it displaying an error code?

If the dishwasher starts and runs a full cycle without issues, congratulations! The reset worked.

When a Reset Isn’t Enough: Troubleshooting Common Issues

While a reset is a great first step, it won’t fix every problem. If your dishwasher still isn’t working after a reset, consider these common issues:

Problem	Possible Cause	Simple Fixes (Beyond Reset)
Dishwasher won’t start	Door latch issues, no power, cycle not selected	Ensure door is fully latched, check power outlet, select a cycle, un-engage control lock
Dishwasher not draining	Clogged filter, clogged drain hose, air gap issue	Clean filter, check drain hose for kinks/blockages, clean air gap (if applicable)
Dishes not getting clean	Clogged spray arms, improper loading, low water temp	Clean spray arm holes, load dishes correctly, check water heater temp (120°F is ideal)
Dishwasher making loud noises	Debris in pump, motor issues, spray arm hitting	Check for foreign objects in the bottom, check spray arm for obstructions
Dishwasher leaking	Door seal issues, loose hose connections	Inspect door gasket for damage, check hose clamps for tightness
Error codes displayed	Specific component failure	Consult owner’s manual for code meaning and recommended action

Export to Sheets

Always unplug the dishwasher or turn off its circuit breaker before performing any physical checks or repairs.

Maintenance Tips to Avoid Future Resets

Regular maintenance can prevent many issues that lead to needing a reset.

• Clean the filter regularly: Most Whirlpool dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom. Clean it weekly or bi-weekly to prevent food particles from clogging the drain or pump.
• Scrape plates: Remove large food scraps before loading to reduce strain on the filter and drain.
• Run hot water at the sink: Before starting the dishwasher, run the hot water at the kitchen sink until it’s hot. This ensures the dishwasher fills with already hot water, improving cleaning and reducing cycle time.
• Use appropriate detergent: Use high-quality dishwasher detergent. Don’t use liquid dish soap for handwashing.
• Check spray arms: Periodically remove and clean the spray arms to ensure the holes are clear.
• Inspect door gasket: Keep the door gasket clean and free of food debris to ensure a good seal.

These simple steps can significantly extend the life of your appliance and reduce the need for troubleshooting.

FAQ

How do I know if my Whirlpool dishwasher needs a reset?

Your dishwasher might need a reset if it’s stuck mid-cycle, not responding to commands, displaying a persistent error code that doesn’t clear, or if the lights on the control panel are blinking erratically.

Will resetting my Whirlpool dishwasher erase its memory or settings?

Generally, a basic reset (like a power cycle or using the cancel button) only clears temporary glitches and error states. It typically does not erase permanent cycle settings or user preferences stored in the dishwasher’s memory. However, more advanced diagnostic resets (if performed by a technician) might temporarily alter some settings.

How long should I wait after a power cycle reset?

After turning off the circuit breaker, it’s best to wait at least 1 to 5 minutes. This waiting period allows the control board’s capacitors to fully discharge, ensuring a complete power reset.

My dishwasher is still showing an error code after resetting. What now?

If an error code persists after a reset, it indicates a more significant underlying issue that a simple reset cannot fix. You’ll need to consult your owner’s manual for the meaning of that specific error code. It often points to a faulty component that may require professional service.

Can a reset fix a dishwasher that isn’t draining?

Sometimes, yes. If the draining issue is due to a temporary electronic glitch, a reset might clear it. However, if the problem is a physical obstruction (like a clogged filter, kinked drain hose, or foreign object in the pump), a reset won’t help. You’ll need to manually inspect and clear any blockages.

Bottom Line

Knowing how to reset your Whirlpool dishwasher is a valuable skill for any homeowner. It’s often the quickest and easiest way to resolve common issues, saving you time and potentially money. By following these simple steps, you can get your appliance back to its optimal performance.