Dishwasher Not Heating (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

If your dishwasher isn't heating, check the heating element for damage, ensure the thermostat is functioning, and verify the water supply is hot. Reset the dishwasher if needed.

Confirm the symptom

Dishes remain wet and cold after a cycle
No visible steam during operation
Dishwasher runs but doesn't sanitize
Error code related to heating appears

Tools and prep

Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
Multimeter for testing electrical components
Rubber gloves for safety
Turn off power at the circuit breaker
Turn off water supply to the dishwasher

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Heating Element
Do: Visually inspect the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher for cracks or burns.
Observe: Damaged or broken element
Means: Element needs replacement
Next: Replace the heating element
Test Thermostat
Do: Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity.
Observe: No continuity indicates a faulty thermostat
Means: Thermostat is defective
Next: Replace the thermostat
Verify Water Temperature
Do: Check the temperature of the water entering the dishwasher.
Observe: Water is cold or below 120°F
Means: Water heater issue or incorrect temperature setting
Next: Adjust water heater temperature
Inspect High-Limit Thermostat
Do: Locate and test the high-limit thermostat for continuity.
Observe: No continuity or tripped thermostat
Means: Thermostat needs resetting or replacement
Next: Reset or replace the high-limit thermostat
Check Control Board
Do: Inspect the control board for visible damage or burnt components.
Observe: Burnt or damaged board
Means: Control board failure
Next: Replace the control board
Reset Dishwasher
Do: Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker for 1 minute, then restore power.
Observe: Dishwasher resumes normal operation
Means: Temporary glitch resolved
Next: Run a test cycle

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Faulty Heating Element The heating element is damaged or burned out and can't generate heat.	Common	Easy	Heating Element
Defective Thermostat The thermostat fails to regulate temperature, preventing the heating element from activating.	Common	Medium	Thermostat
Low Water Temperature Cold water supply prevents the dishwasher from reaching proper cleaning temperatures.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Tripped High-Limit Thermostat The high-limit thermostat has shut off the heating system due to overheating.	Sometimes	Medium	High-Limit Thermostat
Failed Control Board A malfunctioning control board can't send power to the heating element.	Rare	Hard	Control Board
Power Supply Issue Inadequate power to the dishwasher prevents the heating element from working.	Rare	Easy	None

Parts matching

Common parts needed for a dishwasher not heating:

Heating Element
Thermostat
High-Limit Thermostat
Control Board

Purchase parts specific to your dishwasher model for compatibility.

When to call a professional

You're uncomfortable working with electrical components
The dishwasher still doesn't heat after replacing all suspected parts
You smell burning or notice smoke during operation
The warranty is still valid and covers repair services

FAQ

Why is my dishwasher not heating even though the element looks fine?

The thermostat or control board might be faulty, preventing the element from receiving power.

Can cold water cause a dishwasher not to heat?

Yes, if the water supply is too cold, the dishwasher may not reach the necessary temperature for cleaning.

How do I reset my dishwasher's heating system?

Turn off the power at the circuit breaker for 1 minute, then restore power and run a test cycle.

Is it worth replacing a heating element or should I buy a new dishwasher?

Replacing the heating element is cost-effective unless the dishwasher is very old or has frequent issues.