Dishwasher works great empty, but doesn't work when loaded

Whirlpool
WDT720PADM2
Runs fine empty, but not loaded
Error Code (if any): Does not show an error code (E- F-)
Parts or tests already tried: Cleaning filter
Photos / video link: N/A

Hello,

My dishwasher will not run when loaded. Water comes into the dishwasher, but the spray arms are not getting water. I can hear noises as if it is going through the cycles, but it is not washing the dishes. I thought it might be the diverter valve, then the circulation pump.

BUT! It runs like a champ every time I run it empty. So, surely it can’t be these valve or pumps?

How does the dishwasher know if it is loaded or not?

Thanks for any advice!

More than likely the operation when empty is a coincidence. The model number provided does not utilize a sensor capable of sensing dishes. When the dishwasher is loaded, is there absolutely no water droplets anywhere in the dishwasher, part way trough a wash cycle, that would indicate the circulation motor is operating?

Thanks for your reply. I’ll have to look again. I’m a bit overwhelmed by this. I’ll try to run it again and reply.

Hi again, I minimally loaded the dishwasher and started it (one-hour cycle). Water came into the dishwasher, but the sprayer arms did not engage. There was no water on the dishes when I opened the door to check on it. The detergent door had opened and the detergent was on the door/base of the dishwasher. I pushed the “resume” button and closed the door, and the dishwasher started working as normal, sprayer arms were working as normal.

It seems like whatever is going on, it is intermittent. Do these components work intermittently, or do they just fail and that’s it? Now, the one-hour wash is working as normal.

Thanks for helping me!

For it to do what you have described, the failure is in the main control. Whirlpool W11413274 Electronic Control Board (AP6980083) - AppliancePartsPros.com

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Thank you. I will try that. I bought a circulation pump but haven’t opened the box yet, so can return it if needed. I really appreciate your assistance.