The Ultimate Guide: Why Is My Kenmore Dishwasher Blinking? (Solved!)

If your Kenmore dishwasher is blinking, it’s time to unravel the mystery behind those enigmatic lights. This comprehensive guide will delve into the potential causes and provide practical solutions to restore your dishwasher to its pristine working order.

Common Causes of Blinking Lights:

1. Power Issues:

• Blinking Power Light: This indicates a power outage or a faulty connection to the power source. Check if the circuit breaker or fuse controlling the dishwasher is tripped or blown.

2. Water Supply Issues:

• Blinking Water Light: This signifies a problem with the dishwasher’s water supply. Ensure that the water supply valve is fully open and that the water pressure is adequate.

3. Drain Issues:

• Blinking Drain Light: This indicates a blockage or malfunction in the dishwasher’s drain system. Check for any obstructions in the drain hose or pump.

4. Temperature Issues:

• Blinking Temperature Light: This suggests a problem with the dishwasher’s heating element or temperature sensor. It may not be heating the water to the correct temperature.

5. Cycle Issues:

• Blinking Cycle Light: This indicates an issue with the dishwasher’s cycle selection or operation. Reset the dishwasher by turning it off and back on.

6. Sensor Faults:

• Blinking Sensor Light: This indicates a faulty sensor that may be affecting the dishwasher’s performance. Reset the dishwasher or contact a repair technician.

7. Other Issues:

• Blinking Rinse Aid Light: This indicates that the dishwasher is running low on rinse aid, which can affect the drying process. Refill the rinse aid dispenser.

Troubleshooting and Solutions:

1. Resetting the Dishwasher:

• Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
• Turn on the dishwasher and check if the blinking lights have stopped.

2. Checking the Water Supply:

• Make sure the water supply valve is fully open.
• Check the water pressure by running a faucet near the dishwasher.
• If the water pressure is low, contact your local water utility company.

3. Inspecting the Drain System:

• Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and check for any blockages.
• Remove the drain pump filter and clean it thoroughly.
• Run a test cycle to ensure that the drain system is functioning properly.

4. Verifying the Heating Element:

• Unplug the dishwasher and remove the lower access panel.
• Locate the heating element and check for any visible damage or corrosion.
• Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating element.

5. Resolving Cycle Issues:

• Check the dishwasher’s user manual for the correct cycle selection.
• Reset the dishwasher and select the appropriate cycle.
• If the issue persists, contact a repair technician.

6. Diagnosing Sensor Faults:

• Reset the dishwasher and observe if the blinking sensor light persists.
• If the light continues to blink, contact a repair technician to diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.

In a nutshell:

Understanding the reasons behind a blinking Kenmore dishwasher is crucial for restoring its optimal performance. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively identify and resolve the underlying issues. If the problem persists or you encounter any complexities, do not hesitate to contact a qualified repair technician for assistance.

What People Want to Know

Q: What does it mean when my Kenmore dishwasher is blinking all the lights?
A: This typically indicates a major fault or malfunction that requires immediate attention. Unplug the dishwasher and call a repair technician.

Q: Why is my Kenmore dishwasher blinking 3 times?
A: This usually signifies a drain-related issue, such as a blockage or malfunctioning pump. Check the drain hose and pump for obstructions.

Q: How do I reset my Kenmore dishwasher blinking 5 times?
A: Unplug the dishwasher for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Press and hold the “Start” button for 5 seconds until the lights stop blinking.