Dishwasher Not Heating Water or Drying (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

Check the heating element for damage, ensure the water supply is hot, and test the thermostat. Replace faulty parts if needed.

Confirm the symptom

Dishes remain wet after a full cycle
No visible steam during operation
Water entering the dishwasher is cold
Dishwasher runs but dishes aren't sanitized
Heating element appears cracked or burned

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Multimeter for testing electrical components
Rubber gloves and safety goggles
Flashlight for inspecting interior
Owner's manual for model-specific guidance
Turn off power at circuit breaker before starting

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Water Temperature
Do: Verify the home's water heater is set to at least 120°F and the hot water line is connected to the dishwasher.
Observe: Water entering the dishwasher is hot.
Means: Cold water supply prevents proper heating and drying.
Next: If water is cold, adjust the water heater or check connections.
Inspect Heating Element
Do: Visually check the heating element at the bottom of the dishwasher for cracks or discoloration. Use a multimeter to test for continuity.
Observe: Heating element shows visible damage or no continuity.
Means: A faulty heating element cannot generate heat.
Next: Replace the heating element if damaged or non-functional.
Test Thermostat
Do: Locate the thermostat (usually near the heating element) and test it with a multimeter for continuity.
Observe: Thermostat fails continuity test or shows irregular readings.
Means: A faulty thermostat prevents the heating element from activating.
Next: Replace the thermostat if it's not working.
Check Hi-Limit Thermostat
Do: Test the hi-limit thermostat (safety device) with a multimeter to ensure it's not tripped or damaged.
Observe: Hi-limit thermostat shows no continuity or is physically damaged.
Means: A tripped hi-limit thermostat cuts power to the heating element.
Next: Replace the hi-limit thermostat if faulty.
Inspect Water Inlet Valve
Do: Check the water inlet valve for clogs or damage that might restrict hot water flow.
Observe: Valve is clogged or not opening fully.
Means: A faulty valve can prevent hot water from entering the dishwasher.
Next: Clean or replace the water inlet valve as needed.
Test Control Board
Do: Use a multimeter to test the control board for proper voltage output to the heating element and thermostat.
Observe: Control board shows no voltage or erratic readings.
Means: A malfunctioning control board may not send power to heating components.
Next: Replace the control board if it's not functioning correctly.
Check Drain Hose
Do: Ensure the drain hose is not kinked or clogged and is properly positioned above the sink drain.
Observe: Drain hose is blocked or improperly installed.
Means: Poor drainage can affect the dishwasher's ability to dry effectively.
Next: Unclog or reposition the drain hose.
Verify Vent System
Do: Inspect the vent system (if applicable) for blockages or damage that might hinder airflow during the drying cycle.
Observe: Vent is clogged or damaged.
Means: A blocked vent can prevent proper air circulation for drying.
Next: Clean or repair the vent system.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Faulty Heating Element The heating element generates heat for drying. If damaged, it can't produce sufficient heat.	Common	Medium	Heating element
Malfunctioning Thermostat The thermostat controls when the heating element turns on. A faulty one can prevent heating.	Common	Medium	Thermostat
Tripped Hi-Limit Thermostat This safety device cuts power if the dishwasher overheats. It may remain tripped after a malfunction.	Sometimes	Medium	Hi-limit thermostat
Cold Water Supply If the dishwasher is receiving cold water instead of hot, it can't heat properly.	Sometimes	Easy	Water supply line
Clogged Water Inlet Valve A clogged valve restricts hot water flow into the dishwasher.	Sometimes	Easy–Medium	Water inlet valve
Faulty Control Board The control board sends power to the heating components. A malfunction can prevent heating.	Rare	Hard	Control board
Blocked Drain or Vent Poor drainage or airflow can hinder the drying process.	Sometimes	Easy–Medium	Drain hose or vent system

Parts matching

Common parts needed for a dishwasher not heating or drying include:

Heating element (most common replacement)
Thermostat and hi-limit thermostat
Water inlet valve
Control board (less common)
Drain hose or vent system components

Always match parts to your dishwasher model using the owner's manual or model number for compatibility.

When to call a professional

If you're uncomfortable working with electrical components
If the dishwasher is under warranty and DIY repairs may void it
If you've replaced all accessible parts without resolving the issue
If the control board needs replacement (requires advanced skills)
If water leaks or electrical shorts are present during inspection

FAQ

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

The thermostat or hi-limit thermostat may be faulty, preventing the heating element from activating. Test both components with a multimeter.

Can cold water cause a dishwasher to not dry properly?

Yes. If the dishwasher is receiving cold water instead of hot, it can't generate enough heat for effective drying. Check the water supply connections.

How do I know if the thermostat is the problem?

Test the thermostat with a multimeter for continuity. If it shows no continuity or erratic readings, it likely needs replacement.

Is it worth repairing an old dishwasher that won't heat?

Consider the age and cost of parts. For dishwashers over 8–10 years old, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.

Can I test the heating element myself?

Yes. Turn off the power, remove the lower panel, and use a multimeter to check for continuity. No continuity means the element is faulty.