It’s easy to forget how convenient our dishwasher is until it suddenly stops working. Why won’t my LG dishwasher turn on? Oftentimes, the door isn’t completely closed and latched. Learn the most common reasons your LG dishwasher won’t turn on and how to quickly restore function.
LG Dishwasher Won’t Turn On? Try This…
Sometimes, a simple adjustment can solve the problem when your LG dishwasher won’t turn on. In other instances, a part failure requires professional assistance. Use these LG dishwasher troubleshooting tips to determine the source of the problem and the right fix.
1. Dishwasher Power Problem
Like most large appliances, an LG dishwasher won’t start with consistent and adequate electrical power.
Here’s how to troubleshoot dishwasher power problems:
- Make sure the power is on: Most dishwashers are connected to a kitchen switch that must be turned on for it to receive power. Confirm that the switch is in the on position, keeping in mind that many are located under the kitchen sink.
- Check the power cord: Make sure the dishwasher’s electrical cord is properly plugged in. Refrain from using extension cords that can cause surges that interrupt power.
- Look for tripped breakers: Check your home’s circuit breaker box and reset any tripped breakers.

2. Dishwasher Door Is Not Fully Closed
To prevent leaks, an LG dishwasher won’t turn on unless the door is completely closed and latched. When closing the door, always give it a firm push to engage the door latch. Once engaged, the latch holds the door securely closed while its switch sends power to the dishwasher control board, beginning a wash cycle.
If the dishwasher door is completely closed and the latch isn’t engaged, check it for visible damage and continuity. Most latches are located at the top of the dishwasher door. If the latch is damaged or its switch has no continuity with multimeter testing, it requires replacement.
3. Need to Change Dishwasher Settings
Is your LG dishwasher not starting on command? Certain control panel settings or codes may tell you why.
Check the control panel for the following:
- A cycle is selected: The dishwasher won’t begin washing unless a cycle is selected.
- The cycle includes an immediate start: Some cycles, like Delay Start, push back that start of a wash cycle to a later time. Other settings, like Child Lock, lock the control panel to prevent an accidental start. Refer to your user manual to disable these functions, as the method varies from model to model.
- Error codes: Error codes are a combination of numbers and/or letters that alert you to a potential problem. Refer to your user manual to determine the meaning of the code and how to resolve it.
- Control panel failure: Excessive moisture or electronic failure can damage the control panel so it won’t relay commands. If one or more buttons are unresponsive, the control panel may require replacement.
4. Problem With Dishwasher Water Supply
Water supply issues can also be responsible for an LG dishwasher not working properly. If you notice that the dishwasher has power but doesn’t fill and begin a wash cycle, there may be a water supply problem.
Use these tips to assess the dishwasher’s water supply:
- Check water supply connection: Make sure the dishwasher is properly connected to your home water supply and that the supply valve is on.
- Examine dishwasher hose: Check the dishwasher’s water supply hose for kinks that could obstruct water flow. Gently straighten the kink, if possible.
- Assess water inlet valve: If the water inlet valve on the hose has malfunctioned, it won’t open and allow water to supply the dishwasher. If the valve has visible damage or multimeter testing shows no continuity, it must be professionally replaced.

5. Faulty LG Dishwasher Parts
If your LG dishwasher won’t turn on after trying the above tips, a part failure may be at fault.
These LG dishwasher parts can keep the dishwasher from starting and require a professional dishwasher repair service:
- Thermal fuse: The thermal fuse cuts off the dishwasher’s power if it’s in danger of overheating. For the dishwasher to resume function, the fuse must be replaced. However, before replacing the fuse, investigate possible causes for overheating, such as faulty wiring or power issues.
- Main control board: This essential component governs all dishwasher functions by sending power to the appropriate one at the right time. If it fails, the dishwasher may not start, rinse or drain.
- Timer: The timer works with the control board to govern power to the appropriate functions at the right time. If it fails, the dishwasher may not start on command.
Whether you need dishwasher cleaning tips or an expert repair, our technicians can help. Contact Maughanster Appliance Repair for all your kitchen appliance needs!