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Rhondajv · Jan 15, 2006, 06:53 PM

Hello.I need some help... PLEASE. I can not get my disher washer to turn on. I looked at my breaker box, can I change the #5 breaker? Is this allowed? This may sound stupid but I want:eek: to learn. Thank you for your help. : Rhonda

labman · Jan 15, 2006, 07:28 PM

''can I change the #5 breaker?'' Yes, but it means taking the cover off the box, not the best DIY starter project. First make sure you ae not getting power to the dishwasher. Breakers don't go bad that often unless they are being tripped excessively. If you are going to do stuff you need some tools, more than a screwdriver and pliers. I came across the niftiest gadget for trouble shooting, a voltage detector. They work through the insulation of wires. There are several brands. I have a GB Instruments GVD-505A, less than $15 at Home Depot. Touch it to a hot wire, and the end glows red. Find the doodad that lights it on one side, and not the other, and you have the culprit. Somebody else mentioned a Greenlee Kit, $30 at HD with a detector, a meter, and an outlet tester. Could be a great starter kit.

Is everything else in the kitchen working? Dishwashers are seldom on their own circuit. Another good reason to leave the main box alone.

Do some checking and post back. Since I don't think the breaker is the problem, I am not going into replacing it for now.

Rhondajv · Jan 15, 2006, 07:51 PM

I have the voltage doodad... I will check... thank's for getting back.. I'll let you know.. ::D

Rhondajv · Jan 16, 2006, 08:23 PM

Mr Labman,, I've been staring at it... I need to go get me a owners manual, can't find the one I have... my dad put the dishwasher in.. however he passed last year.. so I'm having a littlebit of a hard time with this... HOWEVER,, I will get back with you and,, again thank you.:D

PalmMP3 · Jan 16, 2006, 11:16 PM

Have you tried searching online for the owner's manual?

Y'know something, why don't you post the brand and model of your dishwasher? That way, maybe we can help you locate a manual.

Rhondajv · Jan 18, 2006, 10:48 PM

It's a Kenmore Ultra Wash 3... I'm going back where I bought it... Ck on manual.
The machine is 10 years old... I may just have to get another one--someday. For now I've been using the ole"ARMSTRONG" model... its really old and tired... Anyway thanks,, I'll ck out the manual... Rhonda:D

labman · Jan 19, 2006, 08:52 AM

What information do you expect in the owners' manual? Usually they may have advice on loading it and type of detergent to use, but little more in case of trouble, than call the Sears service center. If you have power to it, and it won't run, maybe start at the door latch. Usually there is an interlock keeping it from running unless the door is latched. Something could be worn enough to keep from closing the switch.

applguy · Jan 23, 2006, 07:23 PM

Did you by chance look under the sink for what looks like a light switch? Many times this switch will get tripped accidentally without your knowledge. If you have one, its intent is to be a kill switch so if a problem arises, you can shut it off quickly without affecting the rest of the kitchen.