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Topic: Dishwasher Ghost

User: readydave8, Location: Clarkesville, Georgia

Asked on: Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 5:14 pm EDT
Answered on: Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 5:14 pm EDT

Question: This is at daughter's housereceptacle in sink cabinet for dishwasher to plug in toDishwasher will sometimes not start, other times stop in middle of cycle, other times work fine.I checked for loose connections a few years agoThey found out that plugging dishwasher into short cord, and plugging into countertop receptacle, never a problem with dishwasher. With all the digital controls I wondered if it was the cord that solved it and not the receptacle, so experimented with plugging cord into original receptacle below sink, same problem with cord as without.So last time I was there, I fished from the countertop receptacle and added receptacle in sink cabinet (flush mount, original was surface mount handy box)Dishwasher does same thing, even though is on circuit that it works fine on when plugged in above counterDishwasher is LG, model #DUA414TTASTEEUS

Okay, this is a tricky one! It sounds like you've done some good troubleshooting already. Here's a breakdown of potential issues and next steps, based on your observations

Possible Causes & Troubleshooting:

1. Voltage Drop on the Original Circuit



Explanation

Even though the
countertop receptacle on the same circuit works fine, the under-sink receptacle could be experiencing a voltage drop specifically at that point. This is the most likely culprit, given that moving the dishwasher to the countertop receptacle resolves the issue. Dishwashers, especially modern ones with digital controls, are sensitive to voltage fluctuations.

Why it happens



Distance from panel

The further the receptacle is from the breaker panel, the more likely voltage drop is (due to wire resistance).


Poor Connections

A loose connection upstream of the under-sink receptacle could be causing resistance and voltage drop under load. This could be in the breaker panel itself, or in another receptacle or splice box along the circuit.

Wire Gauge

If the wire used for the under-sink receptacle is undersized (e.g., 14 gauge on a 20-amp circuit, or even a long run of 12 gauge on a 20 amp circuit), it could contribute to voltage drop.


Shared Circuit Load

Even though nothing else is obviously running on the circuit when the dishwasher is failing, there could be other appliances intermittently drawing power (e.g., a refrigerator cycling on, a sump pump, a garbage disposal, or even lights with high inrush current).

Troubleshooting



Voltage Check (Under Load)



(SAFETY FIRST! If you're not comfortable working with electricity, hire a qualified electrician.)
Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the under-sink receptacle while the dishwasher is running. This is critical. If you see the voltage drop significantly (e.g., below 110V or even lower), that confirms a voltage drop issue. Do this at all the phases of the washing cycle Check the Breaker

Ensure the breaker for the dishwasher circuit is properly seated in the panel and making a good connection. Turn the breaker off, remove it, and visually inspect the contacts for corrosion or damage. Reinstall securely.


Inspect Wiring (Carefully!)

Starting at the breaker, trace the wiring of the circuit. Carefully inspect all accessible connections (receptacles, splices, etc.) for loose wires, corrosion, or signs of overheating. Make sure all connections are tight. Pay special attention to any connections between the countertop and under-sink receptacles.

Wire Gauge Check

Determine the gauge of the wire used for the circuit and the run to the under-sink receptacle. Make sure it's adequate for the load (usually 12 gauge for a 20-amp circuit, 14 gauge is often acceptable for a 15-amp circuit). Longer runs will want a heavier gauge


Isolate Other Loads

Try turning off other potential loads on the same circuit while the dishwasher is running to see if that makes a difference. This can help identify if something else is contributing to the voltage drop.2.

Loose Neutral



Explanation

A loose neutral connection can cause erratic voltage readings and appliance malfunctions. It's often difficult to diagnose because the voltage readings can appear normal at times, but fluctuate under load.


Troubleshooting



Thorough Inspection

Carefully check the neutral connections at the breaker panel, the under-sink receptacle, and any other accessible points along the circuit. Ensure they are tight and properly made.


Test with a Neutral Tester

(These are readily available at hardware stores). Plug it into the under-sink receptacle and see if it indicates any issues with the neutral.3.

Faulty Receptacle (Even if New)



Explanation

It's rare, but a new receptacle can be defective. The internal connections could be weak or loose.


Troubleshooting



Replace the Receptacle (Again)

Try swapping the new under-sink receptacle with a different brand or model. Make sure the connections are secure.4.

Dishwasher Inlet Valve/Internal Issue (Less Likely)



Explanation

While less likely given that it works perfectly on the countertop receptacle, there's a slight chance the dishwasher itself has a problem that's exacerbated by a marginal electrical supply. A failing inlet valve or other internal component could draw more current than it should, contributing to voltage drop on the circuit.

Troubleshooting



Amp Meter Test

While the dishwasher is running on the under-sink receptacle, use an amp meter to measure the current draw. Compare this to the current draw when it's running on the countertop receptacle. A significant difference in current draw could indicate an issue with the dishwasher itself. However, this will need someone who is experienced with using amp meters safely on electrical equipment.5.

Interference



Explanation

Sometimes electronic devices can interfere with each other. A dimmer switch, LED light, or other electronic device could be injecting noise into the circuit that's affecting the dishwasher's sensitive controls. This is a long shot, but worth considering.


Troubleshooting



Try turning off or unplugging any nearby electronic devices
that might be interfering with the dishwasher.

Action Plan


Prioritize Safety

If you're not comfortable working with electricity, hire a qualified electrician. Electricity is dangerous.2.

Voltage Drop Test (Under Load)

This is the key test. Perform the voltage check at the under-sink receptacle while the dishwasher is running. If you find a significant voltage drop, you've narrowed down the problem considerably.3.

Inspect Wiring & Connections

Thoroughly inspect all wiring and connections along the circuit, paying close attention to the neutral and ground.4.

Wire Gauge Check

Confirm that the wire gauge is adequate for the load and run length.5.

Isolate Other Loads

Try turning off other potential loads on the same circuit.6.

Replace Receptacle (Again)

If the above steps don't reveal anything, try replacing the under-sink receptacle with a different brand or model.7.

Consider Calling an Electrician

If you've exhausted these steps and are still having problems, it's time to call a qualified electrician. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose more complex electrical issues.

Important Notes



Safety First!
Always turn off the breaker before working on any electrical wiring. Proper Grounding

Ensure that the receptacle is properly grounded. A faulty ground can also cause problems.


Code Compliance:
Make sure all wiring and installations are compliant with local electrical codes.Good luck! Let me know if you have any other questions. Flag for review

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