Dishwasher Voltage.

[Aquagility]

My son's Whirlpool dishwasher keeps stopping mid cycle. The input voltage to the programmer, which should be 240v, is only 60v. What could be causing this? Any ideas appreciated.

[Old_Geezer]

Power supply issues. Whatever the exact cause it needs proper maintenance. Or replacement. Trust it's under warranty.

[Aquagility]

Yes, OG. Clearly a power supply issue. What I'm anxious to find out is what could cause a voltage drop of this magnitude between the 13amp plug and the programmer.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Is there a power supply unit within the dishwasher.What is the voltage at the socket.

[jomifl]

Does it happen when the water heater operates, or the motor starts? If so it could be a problem with the plug or cable.

[Old_Geezer]

Without looking at the situation difficult to say but I'm of the opinion if one has to ask it's probably a situation where it's better not to DIY it.

If you are measuring the mains voltage at the plug that would imply either an issue with the house wiring to allow it to drop 180v, or a massive current, which would have been obvious. You are sure you are measuring this correctly with an ac meter ? It's just that the description seems strange to me.

[Old_Geezer]

Of course it could really be a house wiring issue. May pay you to try it at your place see if it does the same thing ?

[Aquagility]

The solution was simple, but the cause of the voltage drop was not one I've come across before. The socket outlet was hidden behind a base unit, and it was not until we exposed it that we found that the dishwasher's 13 amp plug was half in, half out, and substantially melted! Could easily have caused a fire.
Thank you all for your interest. Aq.