My Dishwasher Is Stuck in Drying Mode

My Dishwasher Is Stuck in Drying Mode
Written By
Terri Williams
Terri Williams
Published: Oct 17, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

While generally considered to be durable, dishwashers are not immune to occasional problems, and there are several different reasons why a dishwasher may be stuck in drying mode.

Circuit Breaker

The dishwasher may be remaining in drying mode because of a tripped fuse. The dishwasher’s circuit breaker protects the appliance in the event of an electrical problem or overload. However, if the fuse is tripped, the dishwasher may behave erratically, resulting in problems like being stuck in drying mode. Try to reset the dishwasher by shutting off the breaker for at least five minutes.

Thermostat

A faulty thermostat may cause the dishwasher to remain in drying mode. On some models, the temperature of the dishwasher’s dryer is controlled by a thermostat. According to Repair Clinic, if the thermostat malfunctions, the drying cycle will not start and stop correctly. The thermostat is not a repairable part, so it will need to be replaced.

Timer

The dishwasher may be stuck in drying mode due to a defective timer. The timer ensures that electricity is distributed to different parts of the appliance as needed for each dishwashing cycle. However, if the dishwasher remains in the dryer mode, the timer may be the culprit. If so, the timer will need to be replaced since it is not repairable.

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Control Panel

A problem with the control panel may result in the appliance remaining in drying mode. Depending on the model of dishwasher, the appliance may have a touch pad assembly or an electronic control board. If the control panel is malfunctioning, the machine will not properly cycle through the dryer mode and the control panel should be replaced.

The Drip Cap

  • Dishwashers save time, reduce labor, preserve manicures and hide dirty dishes.
  • The dishwasher may be remaining in drying mode because of a tripped fuse.
  • The dishwasher’s circuit breaker protects the appliance in the event of an electrical problem or overload.
  • However, if the fuse is tripped, the dishwasher may behave erratically, resulting in problems like being stuck in drying mode.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Terri Williams

Terri Williams began writing professionally in 1997, serving as media manager for a large nonprofit organization where she also edited books and created promotional content. She has written extensively on business communication, ethics,…

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