Dishwasher Not Getting Water: Possible Causes and Fixes

There’s nothing worse than loading up your dishwasher after a big meal, pressing “start,” and realizing — nothing’s happening. If your dishwasher isn’t getting water, don’t panic just yet. There are a few common causes behind this issue, and many of them are fixable without needing to replace the entire unit.

Let’s break down what might be going wrong, how to troubleshoot it, and when it’s time to bring in a professional.

Why Is My Dishwasher Not Getting Water?

When your dishwasher won’t fill with water, the problem usually lies in one of the following:

• A faulty water inlet valve

• A clogged or stuck float switch

• Issues with the door latch or door switch

• Kinks or blockages in the water supply line

• Electrical or control board issues

Before you grab your toolbox or make a service call, it’s a good idea to understand how these parts work together.

A Malfunctioning Dishwasher Float

One of the most overlooked components is the dishwasher float — a small mechanism inside the bottom of the dishwasher tub that rises with the water level and tells the machine when to stop filling. If the float gets stuck in the “up” position (due to debris or soap scum buildup), it tricks your dishwasher into thinking it’s already full of water — even when it’s bone dry.

How to check it:
Open the dishwasher and locate the float (usually a round or dome-shaped plastic cap). Try gently moving it up and down — it should move freely. If it’s stuck, give it a good cleaning to remove any grime that might be jamming it.

What If My Dishwasher Fills with Water, Then Stops?

If your dishwasher starts filling but then shuts off mid-cycle, you’re dealing with a slightly different issue. Possible causes include:

• A faulty water inlet valve that isn’t staying open long enough

• A clogged filter or drain, causing a safety shutoff

• Malfunctioning control board or timer

• A tripped thermal fuse or safety sensor

Start by checking for any visible blockages or filters that need cleaning. If you’ve ruled out obvious culprits, it may be time to test the inlet valve or other components using a multimeter (if you’re comfortable with electrical work).

Reliable Protection for the Major Appliances You Rely On

Let’s face it — dishwashers, like all appliances, can develop problems over time. But taking good care of them and performing routine maintenance can extend their life and save you money.

Tips to keep your dishwasher running smoothly:

• Clean the filter and spray arms regularly

• Run a dishwasher cleaner monthly

• Inspect and straighten any kinks in the water supply line

• Avoid overloading the racks, which can stress internal components

• Listen for unusual sounds or incomplete cycles — early signs something’s off

But even with the best care, appliances can surprise you. That’s where reliable dishwasher repair services come in.

Call GIR Appliance – Trusted Repair Experts in Woodlands and Houston

When your dishwasher isn’t cooperating, and DIY fixes don’t do the trick, don’t waste time guessing. GIR Appliance offers expert appliance repair services throughout the Woodlands and Houston area. Whether it’s a water inlet valve issue, a faulty float switch, or something deeper in the system, our skilled technicians will diagnose and fix the problem fast.

With fair pricing, quick turnarounds, and years of experience, GIR Appliance is your go-to solution for dishwasher repair and all your major home appliances.

Give us a call today — and get your kitchen running smoothly again!

Learn more: Dishwasher Arms Not Spinning