Why Is My Dishwasher Not Filling With Water?

To understand why the dishwasher is not filling, you must first check the water supply, the tap and the filters. Then, it will be necessary to check the compression chamber and the flowmeter by also testing the operation of the pressure switch and the aquastop.

Most appliances are fitted with an anti-leakage safety device: when this safety device is activated, it is then impossible for your dishwasher to fill with water. Just tilt your device to one side to check if water is leaking in one part.

If you notice a leak, you will then have to check other elements, it will mainly be a question of checking the tightness of the components: the door seals, the tank, the hoses, the washing arms, the under-tank elements, etc.

A dishwasher that refuses to fill with water can be a frustrating issue, as it prevents the appliance from performing its primary function of cleaning dishes effectively. Several factors can contribute to this problem, but identifying and addressing the root cause can help you restore your dishwasher’s functionality. In this article, we will explore some common reasons behind a dishwasher not filling with water and provide guidance on how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

1. Water Supply Issue

One of the most common reasons for a dishwasher not filling with water is a problem with the water supply. Consider the following steps:

1. Check the Water Supply Valve: Ensure that the water supply valve to the dishwasher is fully open and that water is flowing through the supply line. If the valve is closed or partially open, the dishwasher won’t receive water.
2. Inspect the Water Inlet Valve: The water inlet valve is responsible for controlling the flow of water into the dishwasher. If the valve is clogged, damaged, or malfunctioning, it may not allow water to enter the dishwasher. In such cases, the valve may need to be cleaned or replaced.

2. Faulty Float Switch

The float switch is a small device located in the dishwasher’s base that monitors the water level inside the appliance. If the float switch becomes stuck or malfunctions, it can prevent the dishwasher from filling with water. Here’s what you can do:

1. Check the Float Switch: Locate the float switch inside the dishwasher and ensure that it moves freely up and down. If the float is stuck in the raised position, it may be signaling the dishwasher that the water level is already sufficient, even when it is not. Clean the float and its housing to remove any debris that may be causing it to stick.

3. Clogged or Blocked Water Inlet Screen

The dishwasher’s water inlet screen filters debris from the water supply before it enters the dishwasher. If this screen becomes clogged, it can restrict the flow of water. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the Water Inlet Screen: Find the water inlet screen where the water supply line connects to the dishwasher. It is typically a small mesh filter.
2. Clean the Screen: Turn off the dishwasher’s water supply, then disconnect the water supply line and carefully remove the water inlet screen. Clean the screen with a soft brush or rinse it under running water to remove any buildup.

4. Defective Water Inlet Valve

If the water inlet valve is faulty, it may not open properly to allow water into the dishwasher. In this case, the valve may need to be replaced. Here’s what you can do:

1. Consult the Dishwasher Manual: Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for instructions on how to access and test the water inlet valve.
2. Contact a Professional Technician: Replacing the water inlet valve can be more complex and may require specialized tools and expertise. If you are uncertain about performing the replacement yourself, it’s best to contact a professional technician.

5. Drainage Issue

If your dishwasher’s drain hose is improperly installed or clogged, it can create a siphoning effect that prevents water from filling the dishwasher. Take the following steps:

1. Check the Drain Hose: Ensure that the dishwasher’s drain hose is installed correctly and is not positioned too low, causing water to drain out as it enters.
2. Inspect for Clogs: Look for any clogs or kinks in the drain hose that may be obstructing the flow of water. Clear any blockages to allow water to fill the dishwasher.

CHECK THE WIRING

It will be necessary to test the continuity between the electronic card and the pressure switch as well as that of the flow meter, to ensure that no wire is cut. Visually follow the wires going on the map to find your way.

• Position the multimeter on the position used to measure the continuity, the smallest value of the ohmmeter mode.
• Touch one point of the multimeter to the terminal of the pressure switch and the second point to the opposite of the same wire located on the electronic board. The multimeter should beep, otherwise your wire is cut and will need to be replaced.
• Proceed with the same operation for the flow meter.

TEST THE AQUASTOP ELECTRICALLY

If the aquastop is powered and the water does not flow, this means that the valve that is supposed to open is mechanically blocked. It will be necessary to test the aquastop under voltage:

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

In conclusion, a dishwasher not filling with water can be caused by a water supply issue, faulty float switch, clogged or blocked water inlet screen, a defective water inlet valve, or a drainage problem. 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 have the expertise to diagnose the underlying cause of the problem and provide the appropriate repair or adjustment to ensure your dishwasher fills with water and operates efficiently, allowing you to enjoy clean and sparkling dishes after every cycle.