Dishwasher Blinking Lights? What the Codes Mean

Dishwasher blinking lights can mean a normal cycle stage or an error. Check the manual first, because the meaning of the pattern varies by brand. Common faults are a drain problem, a water fill problem, a door latch that has not engaged, or the leak sensor in the base.

Cancel the cycle, check those parts, and reset the machine by cutting the power for a minute or two.

Dishwasher blinking lights: normal or fault?

Many dishwashers flash a light while a cycle runs, and some flash when a cycle finishes. A fault pattern usually keeps blinking after you cancel, or stops the cycle. Look at the number of flashes or the specific light, and compare with the key in your manual or on the inside of the door or control panel.

Quick facts: dishwasher blinking lights
Time needed	10 to 30 minutes
Tools	Your manual, flashlight, towels
Difficulty	Easy for resets and checks
First step	Find the code key, then cancel and reset

Typical meanings

Pattern or code	Often means	What to check
Water not filling	Supply problem or inlet valve	Open the supply valve, check the hose
Draining slowly or not at all	Clogged filter, hose or disposal	Clean the filter, hose and air gap
Door not latched	Latch or switch fault	Close firmly, check the latch
Leak detected	Water in the base, float tripped	Look for leaks, dry the base
Heating fault	Heating element or thermistor	Technician test
Control error	Board or wiring	Reset, then technician

Manufacturers use their own codes, so a code on one brand may mean something else on another. Always check your own manual.

Steps to take

1. Cancel the cycle by holding the cancel or start button for a few seconds, if your model has one.
2. Open the door, check for standing water, and look for anything blocking the door or latch.
3. Check the supply valve under the sink is open.
4. Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub, and check the drain hose and air gap.
5. Look at the base for water. A tripped float or leak sensor will stop the cycle until it is dry.
6. Reset by cutting power at the breaker for one to two minutes, then restore it.
7. Run a short cycle and see whether the lights return.

Leak sensor and float switch

The base of the dishwasher often has a float or sensor that detects water. If a past leak left water in the base, the dishwasher blinking lights may signal a leak fault until the water is removed. With the power off, tilt the machine slightly or sponge the base dry, find the source of the leak, and test.

Heating and board faults

Codes for heating suggest the element, thermistor or high-limit thermostat. A control error that returns after resets suggests the board. These involve electrical parts, so use a technician unless you are skilled. Compare the repair quote with the price of a new machine.

Why the manual matters

If you have lost the manual, search for the model number on the maker's website, which usually lists the codes. The model number is on a sticker inside the door or on the side.

When to call a professional

Call if the same code returns after checks and a reset, if you suspect a heating, pump or board fault, or if water leaks. Write down the exact pattern of lights, how many flashes and in which order, before you reset, and take a photo of the panel. That helps a technician diagnose the fault by phone and avoids a wasted visit.

Dishwasher blinking lights: reading the pattern

The blinking pattern on a dishwasher panel is a code that points to a particular fault. Most models flash a light a set number of times, pause, and repeat. Write down the number of flashes and which light blinks, then check the owner's manual or the manufacturer's support page for that model. The same code can mean a different fault on another brand, so do not rely on a generic chart.

Common causes include a door that is not latched, a water level that is not reached, or a sensor that is dirty. Turn the dishwasher off at the breaker, wait a minute, then turn it back on to clear the code. If the same dishwasher blinking lights return after each cycle, the fault is still present and needs a technician to check the control board and the sensors.

Related reading

• Dishwasher Won't Start? Power, Latch, Lock and Fuse Checks
• Dishwasher Not Draining? 8 Checks Before You Call a Repair Pro
• Why Is My Dishwasher Leaking? 9 Sources and How to Fix Them
• Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes? 9 Causes and Fixes

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