Dishwasher fills and drains but doesn't wash

[billy_pilgrim]

Hi, all,

This place has been so great in helping me fix both my washer, dryer, and hot water heater ... now I'm hoping you all might be able to help with my wonky dishwasher. The unit is about three years old, and last year it used to start up without us hitting the start button. We thought it might be our cats jumping up and down from the counter, but it has happened without them being in the room. That stopped about a year ago, but now the dishwasher will fill when the cycle is selected and start is pushed. The unit fills (about an inch or two of water below the heating coil), then sits and does nothing. It will drain if you hit the start/cancel button, though.

Any ideas on what could be causing this? I should also mention that underneath the screen (below the arm and filter), there always seems to be some water. Is that normal, or is something clogged?

Thanks so much!

Model FDB1502RGC0

[JWWebster]

Most dishwashers have a timed sequence for the water to be added. That is why a generic water valve won't work for a dishwasher. If too much water is added a float is built in to stop the overflow but it does not determine water depth. I would suspect your water valve is faulty. If that turned out to be fine then the control itself has gone bad. Some water is needed in the pump at all times to prevent the seal from drying out. I hate dishwashers.

[billy_pilgrim]

So, does that mean the water level when it fills (the one to two inches) is not the correct amount? I've had very good success changing out valves on my washing machine. Is there a guide you could suggest I follow for this dishwasher?

For what it's worth, I hate them, too. Though we just had a baby and it is great for sanitizing things quickly.

Cheers!

[theoldstoveguy]

I have seen 6 motors that were that age bad. If it is the black motor they have brushes in the motors. If you take the bottom plate off and where the wires plug into the motor ( on the left side) there is a connector.When the timer is done filling wait 15seconds and take a yard stick and push up and down on the connector. If it runs when up or down,needs motor. You can check voltage to the connector if all else fails.

[schaffersapplian]

I am going to agree with checking the motor... These motors are very unreliable, and I change them all the time.  You should read 120volts at the 2 pin connector going to the motor after the machine fills.  It could be other things, so don't just assume its the motor.  But it sure is the first place I would check.