Dishwasher Flashing Lights? Causes, Meanings, and Fixes

When your dishwasher starts flashing lights, it’s not random. Flashing or blinking lights are the dishwasher’s way of communicating an error, warning, or incomplete cycle. In most cases, the issue can be fixed at home without calling a technician.

This guide explains why dishwasher lights flash, what each situation usually means, and how to fix it safely.

Why Dishwasher Lights Start Flashing

Dishwashers use indicator lights to alert you when:

• A cycle was interrupted

• The door is not properly closed

• Water is not filling or draining correctly

• A safety sensor was triggered

• The control board needs to be reset

Understanding the cause helps you apply the right fix.

Common Reasons Dishwasher Lights Are Flashing (And How to Fix Them)

1. Incomplete or Interrupted Cycle

This is the most common cause.

Signs

• Lights flashing after a power outage

• Dishwasher stopped mid-cycle

• Dishes still dirty or wet

Fix

1. Press Cancel / Drain

2. Let the dishwasher drain completely

3. Turn off power at the breaker for 10 minutes

4. Restore power and start a new cycle

2. Door Not Fully Latched

Dishwashers flash lights if the door opens during operation.

Signs

• Flashing starts immediately after pressing Start

• Dishwasher won’t run

Fix

• Open and close the door firmly

• Check for dishes blocking the door

• Inspect the latch for looseness

3. Dishwasher Needs a Reset

Control boards can freeze due to power surges or glitches.

Signs

• Lights blinking with no clear reason

• Buttons not responding

Fix

• Turn off the circuit breaker

• Wait 10–15 minutes

• Turn power back on and restart

4. Drainage Problem

If the dishwasher can’t drain, it alerts you with flashing lights.

Signs

• Standing water at the bottom

• Flashing lights near end of cycle

• Bad odor

Fix

• Clean the dishwasher filter

• Check drain hose for clogs or kinks

• Run garbage disposal if connected

5. Water Not Filling Properly

The dishwasher flashes lights when it can’t detect incoming water.

Signs

• Dishwasher runs dry

• No sound of water filling

Fix

• Make sure the water supply valve is open

• Check inlet hose for bends

• Confirm household water pressure

6. Heating Error

Dishwashers monitor water temperature closely.

Signs

• Lights flash during wash or dry phase

• Dishes come out cold and wet

Fix

• Run a cycle with heated wash enabled

• If the issue repeats, the heating element or thermostat may need replacement

7. Leak Detected (Safety Mode)

Modern dishwashers drain and flash lights if water is detected in the base.

Signs

• Flashing lights even when off

• Drain pump running constantly

• Water under the dishwasher

Fix

• Turn off power immediately

• Pull dishwasher forward slightly

• Dry the base pan

• Inspect hoses and seals

Professional service may be required.

8. Child Lock or Control Lock Activated

Flashing lights can indicate locked controls.

Signs

• Beeping or flashing when buttons are pressed

• Dishwasher won’t start

Fix

• Hold Control Lock / Lock button for 3–5 seconds

• Try starting the cycle again

What Flashing Patterns Usually Mean

• All lights flashing: Control board error or reset needed

• Start light flashing: Cycle interrupted

• Wash or Clean light flashing: Heating, draining, or sensor issue

Exact meanings vary by brand, but these patterns are common.

When Flashing Lights Are a Serious Problem

Call a technician if:

• Lights keep flashing after multiple resets

• Dishwasher drains continuously

• You smell burning or see electrical damage

• Water leaks appear repeatedly

How to Prevent Flashing Light Issues

• Avoid starting cycles during power storms

• Clean filter every 2–4 weeks

• Don’t overload dishes

• Close the door gently but firmly

• Reset the dishwasher after power outages

Dishwasher flashing lights usually indicate an interrupted cycle, door issue, drainage problem, or control glitch. Most fixes are simple and take only a few minutes. Addressing the issue early can prevent costly repairs later.

Read More:

Why is my dishwasher not draining?

How to reset dishwasher after power outage

How to clean dishwasher filter

Dishwasher draining continuously