If you’re pressing your dishwasher’s buttons and nothing happens, no lights, no beeps, no response, don’t panic. It might look like your dishwasher has stopped working, but in most cases, it’s not broken at all. The culprit is usually a simple feature called the dishwasher control lock.
At Starfix Appliance Repair, we receive calls about this issue all the time. Many homeowners believe their dishwasher has failed when it’s actually doing what it’s designed to do, stay safely locked. Let’s explain what the control lock is, how to unlock it, and when to call for professional help.
What Is the Dishwasher Control Lock Feature?
The dishwasher control lock (sometimes called “Child Lock”) prevents accidental button presses. It’s especially useful for families with children, pets, or anyone who might lean on the panel while cleaning or loading dishes.
When the control lock is active, all buttons become unresponsive — even Start or Cancel.
You may notice a small padlock icon or “Control Locked” message on the display. Depending on your dishwasher brand (such as Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, GE, or Bosch), you might also see:
- “Child Lock” displayed on the control panel
- Flashing lights near the “Lock” button
- No sound or lights when pressing buttons
Although it can seem alarming, this is a normal safety feature, not a malfunction.
How to Unlock Your Dishwasher Controls
Every brand has a slightly different method to unlock its dishwasher control lock.
Here are the most common ways to deactivate it:
Whirlpool or KitchenAid:
Press and hold the “Heated Dry” button for 3–5 seconds until the light turns off.
On newer models, hold “Control Lock” or “Hold 3 sec” near the key icon.
Samsung:
Hold “Dry +” or “Delay Start” together for 3 seconds.
The “Child Lock” indicator will turn off.
LG:
Hold “Dual Zone” or “Rinse” for 3 seconds until the padlock symbol disappears.
GE or Frigidaire:
Press and hold “Heated Dry” or “Lock Controls” for 3–5 seconds.
If none of these methods work, unplug your dishwasher — or turn off the circuit breaker — for one minute to reset it.
💡 Pro Tip: Always check your user manual for your model’s exact reset process. Placement of the control lock button can vary.
When It’s Not the Control Lock
Sometimes, your dishwasher may remain unresponsive even after unlocking. In that case, the issue could be deeper than the control lock feature.
Common causes include:
- A faulty control board
- Damaged or stuck buttons
- Moisture inside the control panel
- A blown fuse or wiring fault
These types of problems require diagnosis by an experienced technician.
To see how we handle diagnostic visits, read:
👉 Appliance Inspection & Repair Fees – What You Need to Know
👉 Why Quotes Require an Inspection
How to Prevent Future Dishwasher Lockouts
With a few simple habits, you can avoid confusion caused by the dishwasher control lock:
✅ Always clean the panel when the dishwasher is off — moisture can trigger the buttons.
✅ Avoid leaning against the controls while loading dishes.
✅ Keep your user manual handy for quick reset instructions.
✅ Teach everyone in the household how to toggle the lock on and off.
If the control panel locks repeatedly or fails to respond, the keypad or main board may need professional service.
Why Choose Starfix Appliance Repair
When your dishwasher stops responding, we know it can be stressful — especially when it’s unclear if it’s a setting or a real fault.
That’s why Starfix uses a transparent, step-by-step process designed for speed, accuracy, and accountability:
- Diagnose the problem on-site
- Provide a clear quote before any repair
- Deduct your inspection fee from the final invoice if you proceed
- Use warranty-backed parts for reliability
Learn more about how we deliver results:
👉 How to Help Us Fix Your Appliance on the First Visit
👉 Why Some Repairs Require a Second Visit
Our Service Areas
We proudly provide dishwasher repair and other appliance services across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, including:
Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Surrey, Richmond, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Delta, White Rock, Langley City, Langley Township, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Mission.
If your dishwasher is stuck in control lock mode or won’t start, we can help — often with same-day service.
📞 Call 604-900-2105
🌐 Visit https://starfix.ca to book your appointment today.
