A washing machine that won’t start after pressing the power or start button is a common and frustrating issue for many homeowners. This kind of malfunction can be caused by several factors — from a simple power problem to more complex issues with the control board or door lock system. Before calling a technician, there are a few things you can check to possibly resolve the issue yourself. Here’s what you need to look at first.
1. Check the Power Supply
Before assuming your machine is broken, start with the basics. Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into a functioning outlet. Try plugging another device into the same outlet to confirm whether it’s working. If the outlet is controlled by a wall switch, make sure it’s turned on. If your washing machine is plugged in but still not turning on, check your home’s circuit breaker. A tripped breaker could prevent power from reaching the appliance. Flip the switch off and then on again to reset it.2. Inspect the Start Button
The start or power button itself may be the problem. On many models, these buttons are part of a digital or touch-sensitive interface. Over time, wear and tear or internal faults can cause them to become unresponsive. If your machine has a physical button and it feels loose or doesn’t “click,” it may be broken. For machines with a digital interface, try resetting the machine by unplugging it for a minute and then plugging it back in. This can sometimes clear minor glitches.3. Evaluate the Door Lock Mechanism
Most modern washing machines have a safety feature that prevents the cycle from starting if the door or lid isn’t properly closed and locked. Even a slightly misaligned door can cause the machine to remain idle. Inspect the door or lid to ensure it is shutting fully. If you hear a “click” when you close it, that’s a good sign — but not a guarantee. The locking mechanism itself could be faulty. If the door lock switch is broken or the lock sensor isn’t working properly, the control system won’t allow the cycle to begin. Try gently pressing on the door while pressing the start button. If this works, your door latch may be worn or out of alignment and will need servicing.4. Control Board or User Interface Issues
The control board is essentially the brain of your washing machine. If there’s an issue with it, the machine may not start even if everything else is in working order. Problems with the control board can arise from electrical surges, component failure, or long-term wear. Symptoms of control board failure include the display not lighting up, buttons not responding, or the machine freezing during operation. Unfortunately, diagnosing a faulty control board usually requires professional expertise and specialized tools. Some machines also have a user interface board that relays signals from the buttons to the main control board. If either of these components is defective, your machine won’t start properly.5. Check for Error Codes
If your washing machine has a display panel, look for any flashing lights or error codes. These can give you a clue about what’s going wrong. Common error codes indicate door lock failure, control issues, or problems with sensors. Refer to your machine’s manual for specific meanings of these codes.6. Other Things to Consider
- Child Lock Feature: Some washing machines come with a child lock feature that disables the control panel. Make sure it’s not activated.
- Water Supply: If the machine senses no water supply, it may not start the cycle. Ensure both hot and cold water valves are open.
- Delay Start Timer: Confirm that the machine isn’t set to start later via a delay start feature.