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Easily Reset Your Whirlpool Dishwasher (WDT720PADM2)
ByZayyan
If your Whirlpool dishwasher WDT720PADM2 is not working right, don’t worry. You can reset it quickly and get it running again. I’ve done this myself, and it works every time. In this article, you will learn exactly how to reset your dishwasher step by step. By following these easy ways, you can fix the problem without calling a technician.
Power Cycle the Dishwasher
First, turn off the dishwasher completely. Press the power button to stop the current cycle. Then, unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet. If your plug is hard to reach, turn off the circuit breaker instead. Wait for at least five minutes to let all the internal electronics reset.
After waiting, plug the dishwasher back in or turn the breaker on. Press the power button again to turn it on. Sometimes the dishwasher just needs a simple power reset. This method can clear minor errors that stop your dishwasher from working properly.
Next, try starting a normal wash cycle. Watch if the dishwasher runs smoothly. If it still does not work, move to the next step. Remember, power cycling is the easiest way to reset without opening any panels.
This method is safe and does not require tools. Always make sure your hands are dry when handling electrical outlets. Power cycling can fix many small glitches quickly.
- Turn off dishwasher and unplug
- Wait at least five minutes
- Plug in and power on
- Start a normal cycle
Use the Cancel or Drain Function
Many Whirlpool dishwashers have a cancel or drain button. Press this button to stop the current cycle immediately. This clears water inside and resets the control panel. Hold the button for three to five seconds until the lights change. Then release it.
Once the drain function works, the dishwasher empties all water inside. This can remove any stuck error code. It also helps the machine reset its internal sensors. After draining, wait a few minutes before starting again.
Next, press the power button and select a normal wash cycle. Watch if the dishwasher starts correctly. Using cancel or drain is useful when a cycle gets stuck in the middle. It is faster than unplugging and can save time.
Always check the drain hose before using this function. Make sure it is not kinked or blocked. A proper drain helps the reset process complete smoothly.
- Press cancel/drain button for 3-5 seconds
- Wait for water to empty
- Check the drain hose
- Start a new wash cycle
Check Door Latch and Lock
The dishwasher will not start if the door is not closed properly. First, open the door and inspect the latch. Look for any dirt, food particles, or damage. Clean it gently with a soft cloth. Sometimes, debris stops the latch from locking.
Close the door firmly. You should hear a click, which shows it is locked. If the latch is damaged, replace it before continuing. A working latch is very important for the dishwasher to reset correctly.
After fixing or cleaning, try the power cycle again. Press the start button to see if the dishwasher works. Most errors appear because the door latch is loose or blocked. Fixing it ensures the machine recognizes the door is closed.
Be gentle when cleaning or adjusting the latch. Do not force it because this can break the mechanism. A smooth latch movement is key to proper dishwasher reset.
- Inspect latch for dirt or damage
- Clean with soft cloth
- Close door firmly
- Start the dishwasher again
Reset Using Control Panel Buttons
Some Whirlpool models allow reset using buttons on the control panel. Press and hold the heated dry and start buttons at the same time for three seconds. You may see the lights blink or the panel reset. This indicates the dishwasher memory is cleared.
This method can remove error codes stored in the system. After the panel resets, press power and select your desired wash cycle. Most software glitches are solved this way without unplugging the machine.
Always check the user manual for exact button combinations. This is important because different models may have slightly different reset procedures. Doing it carefully prevents accidental errors.
Next, watch the dishwasher as it starts the cycle. If it runs smoothly, the reset worked. If not, try combining this method with power cycling.
- Press and hold heated dry + start for 3 seconds
- Watch lights blink
- Release buttons
- Start a new cycle
Inspect and Clear Filter or Drain
Sometimes, the dishwasher does not reset because water cannot flow. Open the bottom rack and remove the filter. Check for food debris or blockages. Clean the filter under running water carefully.
Next, inspect the drain area for any clogs. Use a soft brush if needed. Make sure water can pass freely through the drain. Blocked filters or drains prevent the dishwasher from running or completing a reset.
After cleaning, place the filter back and close the bottom rack. Try starting the dishwasher again. A clean filter and drain allow proper water flow, which helps the machine reset easily.
Always clean the filter regularly to prevent problems. This also extends the life of your dishwasher. Clear water flow is essential for smooth operation and successful resets.
- Remove and clean the filter
- Inspect drain area for blockages
- Replace filter and rack
- Start the dishwasher again
Perform Factory Reset
If other methods do not work, a full factory reset may help. Open the control panel and look for a combination button sequence. Usually, pressing heated dry + normal + start works for some models. Hold for five seconds.
This clears all stored settings and error codes. After a factory reset, your dishwasher will behave like it is brand new. Remember, this removes personalized settings, so you need to set your preferences again.
Next, press power and select a normal wash cycle. Watch carefully if it starts without errors. Factory reset is the last option when simple resets do not work. It is very effective but use carefully.
Always follow the user manual to confirm button sequences. Mistakes can cause the dishwasher to not reset properly. Doing it correctly ensures everything works smoothly afterward.
- Press combination buttons for 5 seconds
- Release and watch lights
- Select normal cycle
- Check dishwasher operation
Final Thoughts
Resetting your Whirlpool dishwasher WDT720PADM2 is simple when you follow these steps. Start with power cycling and draining. Then check the latch, control panel, and filters. If needed, perform a full factory reset. Doing this keeps your dishwasher working well. Regular cleaning and proper use prevent many problems. Always follow safety rules to avoid accidents.
| Action | How to Do It | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Power Cycle | Unplug, wait 5 min, plug back | Safe first step |
| Cancel/Drain | Hold cancel/drain 3-5 sec | Clear stuck cycles |
| Door Latch | Clean/inspect latch | Ensure door clicks |
| Control Panel | Hold buttons for 3 sec | Clears errors |
| Filter/Drain | Remove & clean | Ensure water flows |
| Factory Reset | Hold combination 5 sec | Last resort |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to unplug the dishwasher to reset it?
Yes, it is safe. Unplugging stops all power and allows the machine to reset its electronics. Always make sure your hands are dry. Wait at least five minutes before plugging it back. This prevents electrical shock. Power cycling also clears minor errors. It is the easiest method for quick troubleshooting.
Can a clogged filter prevent the dishwasher from resetting?
Yes, a clogged filter stops water flow. When water cannot circulate, the dishwasher cannot complete a cycle. Cleaning the filter removes debris and food particles. After cleaning, the dishwasher can reset properly. Check it regularly for smooth operation. Clean filters also extend the life of your machine.
Do I need to check the door latch every time?
Yes, checking the door latch helps prevent errors. A loose or blocked latch stops the dishwasher from starting. Cleaning and closing it firmly ensures proper operation. It is an easy habit that prevents stuck cycles. Regular inspection keeps the machine ready for use.
Is using the control panel reset method effective?
Yes, using control panel buttons can clear stored errors. Press the combination as per your model. The lights may blink to show the reset. This method is useful when power cycling does not work. It helps fix minor software glitches quickly.
Can a factory reset damage my dishwasher?
No, a factory reset does not damage the dishwasher. It clears all error codes and restores default settings. You will need to reselect personal settings. Use this method only if other resets fail. Always follow the manual instructions carefully. It is safe when done correctly.
Do I need to inspect the drain every time I reset?
Yes, inspecting the drain helps maintain proper water flow. Blockages prevent the dishwasher from completing cycles. Cleaning the drain ensures smooth operation. This also supports successful resets. Make it a habit to check the drain periodically.
Is power cycling the most common solution?
Yes, power cycling is often the first and easiest solution. It clears small glitches without opening panels. Most minor errors disappear after a simple power reset. It is quick, safe, and effective. Always try this method before complicated resets.
Can I reset the dishwasher without reading the manual?
Yes, simple resets like power cycle and cancel/drain can be done without the manual. For control panel or factory resets, the manual is helpful. It shows the correct button combinations. Following it ensures proper and safe reset. It prevents mistakes that could cause more issues.
