Amana Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding: Troubleshooting... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dishwasher's Main Control Unit (MCU) relies on signals from the touchpad assembly. The touchpad uses membrane switches to send low-voltage DC signals (typically 5V DC) back to the MCU. A failure in the membrane, associated circuitry, or the MCU itself can result in the buttons being unresponsive or falsely registered as pressed. Voltage path disruptions between the touchpad and MCU will also lead to problems.

Symptoms:

The Amana dishwasher's touch buttons are unresponsive, or some buttons appear to be permanently stuck 'on'. The dishwasher may not start, cycle incorrectly, or display error codes related to button input.

Possible Causes:

Power supply issues to the control board
Faulty touchpad membrane
Defective main control board (MCU)
Stuck or shorted button(s) on the touchpad
Loose wiring connections between the touchpad and control board

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel. Verify no voltage present with a multimeter.
2

Open the dishwasher door and remove the inner door panel. This typically requires a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove screws.
3

Disconnect the ribbon cable connecting the touchpad to the main control board.
4

Inspect the ribbon cable and connector for damage or corrosion. Clean any corrosion with a contact cleaner.
5

Check the voltage supply to the main control board using a multimeter. You should typically see 120V AC coming in.
6

If the voltage supply is good, test the continuity of the touchpad circuits. If any circuits are open or shorted, replace the touchpad.
7

If the voltage supply and touchpad are good, replace the main control board. Ensure you order the correct replacement part for your model.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. High voltage is present in the control board. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental re-energizing of the circuit.

Prevention:

Avoid excessive moisture around the control panel. Wipe down the touchpad regularly with a damp cloth (not soaking wet) to prevent buildup and corrosion. Use appropriate dishwasher detergents in proper amounts.

Expert Tip:

Some Amana dishwashers have a service mode that can be accessed by pressing a specific sequence of buttons (consult the service manual for your particular model). This mode allows you to test individual buttons and components to pinpoint the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the continuity of the touchpad circuits?

Use a multimeter set to the continuity setting (often represented by a diode symbol or audible beep). Place one probe on one terminal of the ribbon cable connector (on the touchpad side) and the other probe on the corresponding terminal for that button. Press the button; you should see a change in continuity when pressed. Repeat for each button.

•Where can I find the service manual for my Amana dishwasher model?

You can often find the service manual online by searching for your specific model number followed by 'service manual' or 'technical sheet'. Websites like AppliancePartsPros or RepairClinic may have it available for download. Some manufacturers also provide them on their official websites.

•What is the part number for the main control board for my specific Amana dishwasher?

The part number for the main control board varies depending on your specific model number. You can find the correct part number by locating the model and serial number tag on your dishwasher (usually located inside the door frame) and searching online appliance parts retailers using that model number. Verify the part matches before ordering.

Amana Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding: Troubleshooting & Fix

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the continuity of the touchpad circuits?

•Where can I find the service manual for my Amana dishwasher model?

•What is the part number for the main control board for my specific Amana dishwasher?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: