Solved: The Secret Behind Kitchenaid Dishwasher Blinking

Experiencing a blinking KitchenAid dishwasher can be frustrating, leaving you wondering what’s wrong and how to fix it. This comprehensive guide will delve into the possible causes and provide step-by-step troubleshooting solutions.

Common Causes of Blinking

• Power Supply Issues: Ensure the dishwasher is plugged in and receiving power. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure it’s not tripped.
• Door Switch Malfunction: A faulty door switch can prevent the dishwasher from starting or cause it to stop mid-cycle.
• Water Supply Problems: Insufficient water pressure or a blocked water inlet valve can trigger blinking lights.
• Drain Pump Issues: A malfunctioning drain pump can lead to water buildup and blinking lights.
• Control Panel Errors: Faults in the control panel, such as a damaged circuit board or loose connections, can cause blinking lights.
• Overfill Protection: If the dishwasher detects an overfill condition, it will activate the overfill protection system and blink lights.
• Float Switch Failure: A stuck or malfunctioning float switch can indicate a water level problem and cause blinking lights.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Power Supply

• Verify that the dishwasher is plugged in and the power cord is intact.
• Reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.

2. Inspect Door Switch

• Open and close the dishwasher door several times to check the door switch.
• If the lights continue to blink, replace the door switch.

3. Examine Water Supply

• Check the water pressure by running a faucet near the dishwasher.
• Clean the water inlet valve and hoses for any debris or blockages.

4. Test Drain Pump

• Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
• Remove the drain hose and check for clogs or obstructions.
• If the drain pump is making excessive noise or not draining properly, replace it.

5. Inspect Control Panel

• Visually examine the control panel for any damage or loose connections.
• If necessary, contact a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the control panel.

6. Reset Overfill Protection

• Unplug the dishwasher and wait a few minutes.
• Plug the dishwasher back in and start a cycle. This should reset the overfill protection system.

7. Replace Float Switch

• Remove the lower access panel of the dishwasher to access the float switch.
• Unplug the float switch and check for continuity using a multimeter.
• If the float switch is faulty, replace it.

Wrapping Up

If you’ve followed these troubleshooting steps and the blinking lights persist, it’s recommended to contact a professional appliance repair technician for further assistance.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher blinking 5 times?
A: This usually indicates a door switch malfunction.

Q: What does it mean when my KitchenAid dishwasher blinks 8 times?
A: This typically indicates a drain pump problem or a clogged drain hose.

Q: Can I reset my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: Yes, you can unplug the dishwasher for a few minutes and plug it back in to reset it.