My Frigidaire Dishwasher Is Stuck Between Cycles

How Dishwashers Work

• Dishwashers have motors that pump water into the bin. The water is then distributed forcefully through jets that usually are mounted along the walls and back of the dishwasher, as well as on moving arms. Dishwashers also have heating elements that heat both the air and the water. Several switches are triggered throughout the process of washing the dishes, including switches that drain the bin and, more important, trigger the dishwasher to move to the next cycle. Normally, there is a slight pause between cycles as the dishwasher prepares for the next step of cleaning the dishes. If something interferes with a trigger, however, it won't activate and the cycle will stall and get stuck.

Thermostat Problems

• Dishwashers have thermostats that monitor how hot the water and air are. This is especially important during soaking cycles and if the dishwasher has a "sterilize" option, as many Frigidaire models do. Dishwashers often pause after the bin has filled while the water heats up. Once it's hot enough, the thermometers measure the heat level and trigger the next cycle. If the thermometers malfunction, they cannot register when the water heats to the predetermined temperature and the dishwasher gets stuck on that cycle.

Heating Element Problems

• Heating element problems are very similar to thermometer issues. In short, if the heating element doesn't work, the water, air or steam will not get hot enough for the thermometer to trigger the next cycle. To fix this, as well as the thermostat issue, you need to bring in a professional.

Timer Problems

• Every dishwasher has a timer that controls the cycles. Sometimes the cycles automatically progress after a predetermined amount of time. Other times they are triggered, as previously mentioned. Although rare, timers occasionally break down and need to be replaced. If you can see your timer -- which you can if you have a Frigidaire model with a knob that moves with the cycles -- and the timer does not seem to be moving, it probably needs to be replaced.

Other Problems

• Some dishwashers get stuck on a cycle and refuse to drain. This indicates a problem with the drain valve solenoid, which also can be traced to issues with the timer. In fact, if you have more than one problem causing the stuck cycles, they all might be related to the same issue. It's determining just what the issue is that might be difficult. For that reason, it's best to call a professional for help unless you are comfortable with repairing dishwashers.