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Encountering dishwasher dilemmas like dishes refusing to dry or stubborn food residue can turn kitchen cleanup into a headache.
Dishwasher lights flashing and will not start
Common reasons your Dishwasher lights flashing and will not start
The most common reasons your dishwasher has lights flashing and will not start a cycle are a failed door switch, defective PCB (printed circuit board) or a bad user interface control.
30% of the time it's the Door Switch
25% of the time it's the PCB
21% of the time it's the User Interface Control
24% of the time it's the Something else
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Most common repairs needed to fix a dishwasher
Door Switch Replacement
If your dishwasher doesn't begin a cycle, a faulty door switch might be the issue, as it may not be recognizing that the dishwasher door is closed. Inside the door switch assembly, microswitches can break or malfunction. If the control system doesn't register the closure of the dishwasher door, the machine won't start filling with water and washing the dishes. Since testing and accessing the door switch can be challenging, it's recommended to have a Sears Home Services Professional inspect and fix your dishwasher if you suspect the door switch has failed.
PCB Replacement
When your dishwasher isn't starting a cycle, it might be due to a faulty PCB (printed circuit board). When the board's internal memory and logic are corrupted, it can freeze up, preventing the cycle from starting or progressing. A malfunctioning relay or electronic component on the PCB board could be the culprit behind this issue. Assessing the board's condition can be challenging. To address this problem, schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services technician to diagnose and fix your dishwasher when it's not working.
User Interface Control Replacement
If your dishwasher isn't starting a cycle, a damaged user interface control might be the culprit. This control connects to the electronic control board via a wire harness and sends signals to manage the dishwashing cycle. A faulty power key on the user interface control can hinder the dishwasher from starting up. Additionally, if a key on the user interface control gets stuck, it can halt the cycle, rendering the dishwasher inoperable until the damaged control is addressed. To resolve this issue, consider having a Sears Home Services Repair Expert inspect and replace the user interface control if necessary.
What to expect when you experience a dishwasher with lights flashing and will not start
Expert tips for resolving a problem with a dishwasher flashing lights and not starting
Fixing a dishwasher with lights flashing and not starting the cycle often involves replacing the electronic control board, door latch assembly or the user interface control. However, there may be other issues causing the lights to blink, so a full diagnosis is essential to fixing the problem. In some dishwashers, a failed heating element causes lights to flash. An accurate diagnosis is essential to fixing the problem right.
Our recommendations for fixing a dishwasher with lights flashing and failure to start a cycle
Lights flashing on the control panel of a dishwasher often signal an error code of failure to shut the dishwasher door. Although you can look up error codes or find the cause of the flashing lights, we recommend that you have a Sears Home Services technician diagnose and repair the problem to prevent guesswork involved in DIY repairs. Schedule dishwasher repair service and we’ll send a technician to your home to fix the failure causing the lights to blink.
Troubleshooting a dishwasher flashing control panel lights and not starting the cycle
Check the owner’s manual for troubleshooting advice when your dishwasher won’t start and the console lights are flashing. You may need to press in firmly on the dishwasher door so it latches properly and the cycle starts. Some dishwashers have a control lock or child lock feature that will prevent a cycle from starting and cause the control panel lights to flash. If you’re unable to resolve the problem by following troubleshooting tips in the owner’s manual for your dishwasher, schedule repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the dishwasher.
Flashing lights on a dishwasher usually indicate a stalled cycle or a faulty sensor. Without beginning the wash, your sink can pile up with dirty plates. Stop guessing and book dishwasher repair in my area for electronic troubleshooting. Resolving the error signals helps you launch full wash cycles again without a hitch.
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Thorough
James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.
Kirsten A, Oxford, PA
Service Call
Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!
James G, Hillsboro, MO
Daniel
Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.
Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my dishwasher’s lights flashing but it won’t run?
This typically indicates an error code or a stuck control panel button. A faulty door latch or sensor can also trigger blinking lights and prevent the cycle from starting.
How do I reset a dishwasher with flashing lights?
Unplug the unit or flip the circuit breaker off for one minute. Restore power to see if the control board resets and the lights stop flashing.
Could a broken door latch cause flashing lights?
Yes. If the door latch doesn’t signal “closed” to the control panel, the dishwasher may flash error lights. Inspect and replace the latch if needed.
When is professional service required for a dishwasher flashing lights?
If a power reset and latch check don’t resolve it, the electronic control board or wiring harness may be at fault. A technician can diagnose these complex electrical issues.
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Glossary Terms
A dishwasher basket is a removable container designed to securely hold small items like cutlery and utensils during the wash cycle, ensuring efficient cleaning without loss or damage.
A dishwasher end panel is a finishing piece installed on the exposed side of a dishwasher, primarily when it is at the end of kitchen cabinetry, to ensure a seamless and aesthetically pleasing look in the kitchen.
A dishwasher diverter motor controls the direction of water flow to different spray arms within the dishwasher, ensuring optimal water distribution during each wash cycle for thorough cleaning.
A dishwasher drawer is a compact, space-saving kitchen appliance designed to clean dishes efficiently, resembling a standard kitchen drawer that slides out for easy loading and unloading.