Why Does My Dishwasher Stop During the Cycle?

From the moment you start the dishwasher program, it means that there is no power problem. The problem therefore comes from the components of the device if it stops during the cycle. It can be a stoppage during emptying, filling or cycling.

• If your appliance stops during filling, check the water inlet tap, the aquastop, the flow meter and the pressure switch.
• If your unit stops while draining, it may indicate a problem with the drain pump and check valve.
• If your dishwasher stops during cycling, check the cycling pump and the resistance heater.

Normally an error code is displayed on the control panel to direct the origin of the problem.

Having your dishwasher stop unexpectedly in the middle of a cycle can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on it to clean your dishes. There are several reasons why a dishwasher may stop during the cycle, and understanding these factors can help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. In this article, we will explore some common causes of dishwasher stopping mid-cycle and provide guidance on how to address them.

1. Door Latch Issues

If the dishwasher door is not properly latched or the door switch is faulty, it can cause the dishwasher to stop. Here’s what you can do:

1. Check the Door Latch: Ensure that the dishwasher door is fully closed and securely latched. If the latch is loose or damaged, it may need to be adjusted or replaced.
2. Inspect the Door Switch: The door switch is typically located near the door latch. Check if the switch is functioning correctly by testing it with a multimeter. If the door switch is faulty, it should be replaced.

2. Power Supply Problems

Electrical issues can also cause a dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. Here’s what you can do:

1. Check the Power Connection: Ensure that the dishwasher is properly plugged into the power outlet. If it’s a built-in dishwasher, check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped.
2. Test the Power Outlet: Plug another appliance into the same outlet to ensure it is functioning correctly. If the outlet is not supplying power, check the circuit breaker or contact an electrician to address the issue.

3. Water Supply Problems

Insufficient or interrupted water supply can cause the dishwasher to stop during the cycle. Consider the following steps:

1. Check the Water Supply Valve: Ensure that the water supply valve connected to the dishwasher is fully open. If it’s partially closed or clogged, it can restrict water flow and cause the dishwasher to stop. Clean or replace the water supply valve if necessary.
2. Inspect the Water Inlet Hose: Examine the water inlet hose for any kinks, twists, or blockages that may be impeding the water flow. Straighten or replace the hose if needed.
3. Test the Water Pressure: Insufficient water pressure can cause the dishwasher to stop. Verify that the water pressure in your home is within the recommended range. If it’s low, consult a plumber to address the issue.

4. Clogged Filters or Spray Arms

Clogged filters or spray arms can obstruct water flow and cause the dishwasher to stop. Here’s what you can do:

1. Clean the Filters: Remove the dishwasher’s filters and clean them thoroughly using warm, soapy water. Rinse them well and reinstall them.
2. Clear Spray Arm Blockages: Inspect the spray arms for any debris or mineral deposits that may be blocking the spray nozzles. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any obstructions.

5. Overheating or Thermostat Issues

If the dishwasher overheats or the thermostat malfunctions, it can cause the dishwasher to stop as a safety measure. Here’s what you can do:

1. Wait for the Dishwasher to Cool Down: If the dishwasher feels hot to the touch, wait for it to cool down. Once it has cooled, try restarting the cycle.
2. Test the Thermostat: If the problem persists, it may be a faulty thermostat. Consult a professional technician to test and replace the thermostat if needed.

CHECK WATER FLOW

Before dismantling a dishwasher that no longer cleans, it is best to check if there is enough water for washing. You will need to check if:

• Water faucet open
• The filter at the inlet of the water supply hose is not clogged
• The leakage or overflow protection is not activated, in which case this means that the dishwasher will not have enough water for washing due to a leak and will go into a safe state. Then the problem could be related to plumbing or door seals.

ELECTRICAL CHECK OF THE AQUASTOP

If the aquastop is energized and no water is flowing, this means that the valve that should open is mechanically blocked. It will be necessary to check the aquastop under voltage:

• Start the normal program and wait until the emptying occurs.
• Set the multimeter to AC volts.
• After emptying is complete, place the multimeter tips on the aquastop connectors.
• Hold position 1 for one minute until 230 volts is displayed. If nothing is displayed, replace the card.

CHECK DISHWASHER PRESSURE SWITCH

The pressure switch allows you to control the pouring of water due to air pressure, but not all dishwashers have them. It is connected to the compression chamber by a hose, usually transparent.

• Make sure the hose and compression chamber are not clogged with detergent residue. Make sure your hose is clean: nothing should interfere with air circulation. To make sure your hose isn’t punctured, remove it and blow into it while pinching the end. If air comes out, your hose is punctured.
• To test the pressure switch, remove the air hose and blow inside the pressure switch: you should hear a “click”. If you have to blow very hard, this is a sign of a bad pressure switch.
• You can also perform a continuity test with a multimeter by placing the multimeter’s probes on the connection terminals of the pressure switch. When you blow, your multimeter should beep.

CHECK HEATER RESISTOR

The issue could be due to a heating issue that can be accessed under the device by tilting it to the side. The heating system can be of three types: immersion heater, heating tunnel or circulation pump with built-in heating.

• Select the ohmmeter position of your multimeter, 200 or 600 ohm gauge of your meter.
• Place the test leads on the resistance heater connection points.
• If you find a 1 or OL, the resistor is bad.You can also do a leakage test to see if your resistor is causing a short circuit.
• Place a test lead on the tip of the resistor and the other on the ground wire (green and yellow).
• If you find a value, current is flowing from the resistor to the device, so it is shorted.

In conclusion, a dishwasher that stops mid-cycle can be caused by door latch issues, power supply problems, water supply problems, clogged filters or spray arms, or overheating/thermostat issues. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can identify and address many of these issues. However, if the problem persists or you are uncertain about performing any repairs yourself, it is best to consult a professional technician for further assistance. They will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of the stopping issue and provide the appropriate repair solution, ensuring your dishwasher runs smoothly through the entire cycle.