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Ge dishwasher lights flashing and will not start

Is your GE dishwasher showing flashing lights and refusing to start? This frustrating problem can leave you wondering whether you need to call a professional repair technician or if it’s something you can fix yourself. Fortunately, understanding the possible causes behind the flashing lights and the dishwasher’s failure to start can help you diagnose and solve the issue more effectively.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the most common causes for a GE dishwasher that’s not starting and showing flashing lights, as well as the troubleshooting steps you can take to get it back to normal. Whether you’re dealing with a simple glitch or a more complex problem, we’ll provide helpful advice so you can restore your dishwasher’s function.

Key reasons for the problem:

%

35% of reported issues are the

Faulty Door Latchquestion

%

30% of reported issues are the

Failed Control Boardquestion

%

25% of reported issues are the

Defective Touchpad or Keypadquestion

%

10% of reported issues are the

All Other Causesquestion

Diagnostic and troubleshooting steps

When your dishwasher’s lights are flashing and it won’t turn on, certain repairs are more commonly required than others. Below are the most frequent fixes:

Diagnostic & Troubleshooting
Check for a Door Latch Issue

Step 1:

Check for a Door Latch Issue

  • Make sure the door closes securely when you try to start the cycle. If it doesn’t latch properly, the dishwasher won’t start.
  • If the latch appears fine, test the door switch for continuity. You can do this with a multimeter. If the switch is defective, it will need to be replaced.
Perform a Hard Reset

Step 2:

Perform a Hard Reset

  • Unplug the dishwasher from the power source. Wait at least five minutes.
  • Plug it back in and try starting the dishwasher again.
Check the Thermal Fuse

Step 3:

Check the Thermal Fuse

  • UnCheck the Thermal Fuseplug the dishwasher for safety.
  • Locate the thermal fuse (usually behind the front panel or the dishwasher’s lower access panel).
  • Test the fuse with a multimeter. If it doesn’t have continuity, the fuse has likely blown and needs to be replaced.
Inspect the Drain System

Step 4:

Inspect the Drain System

  • Remove the drain hose and inspect it for any blockages. Clear any debris or buildup that might be blocking the hose.
  • Use a damp cloth to remove any buildup and ensure that the pump is functioning correctly.
Test the Control Board

Step 5:

Test the Control Board

  • Testing the control board can be tricky because it requires specialized knowledge. If you suspect a malfunctioning control board, it’s best to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis.
Get a Home Warranty and Gain Appliance Repair Confidence

Step 6:

Get a Home Warranty and Gain Appliance Repair Confidence

  • Feel more in control when appliances fail—home warranty plans (e.g., Liberty Home Guard) offer predictable solutions.

 

Key actions for homeowners:

  • Regularly clean the drain filter. Clogged filters can lead to drainage problems that stop your dishwasher from functioning.
  • Check the door seal and gasket for wear. Regularly inspect these parts to ensure there are no cracks or damage.
  • Avoid overloading the dishwasher as it can strain the system and lead to failure. Be sure to load your dishwasher according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
  • Keep the dishwasher clean. Wipe down the interior, including the spray arms, to prevent residue buildup.
Diagnostic & Troubleshooting
Diagnostic & Troubleshooting

Most common repairs needed to fix a ge dishwasher

GE Dishwasher Lights Flashing and Will Not Start? This step-by-step guide breaks down the likely causes—from door latch problems to control panel glitches—and offers practical solutions to help you get your dishwasher running smoothly again.

    • Check and Reset the Circuit Breaker or Fuse: A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse can prevent your GE dishwasher from turning on and cause the lights to flash. The dishwasher may not be receiving power if the breaker has been tripped due to an electrical overload or short circuit. Check your home's electrical panel to ensure the circuit breaker for the dishwasher is in the "on" position. If the breaker is tripped, reset it. If the fuse is blown, it will need to be replaced.
    • Inspect the Power Supply Cord and Outlet: A damaged power supply cord or faulty outlet could also cause your GE dishwasher's lights to flash without starting. Inspect the power cord for any visible signs of wear, fraying, or burn marks, as these can indicate that the cord is no longer supplying power. You can also test the outlet by plugging in a different appliance to verify if it's providing the necessary power. If there's an issue with the power supply cord or outlet, replacing the cord or repairing the outlet might solve the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why are the lights on my GE dishwasher flashing and it won't start?

    Flashing lights on a GE dishwasher that won’t start typically indicate an error or malfunction. The issue could be related to a faulty door latch or switch, which prevents the dishwasher from starting. Other common causes include a tripped circuit breaker, a malfunctioning control board, or issues with the power supply. It’s best to troubleshoot by checking these components to identify the root cause. If the issue persists, it may require professional repair or replacement of parts.

  • How do I reset my GE dishwasher when the lights are flashing?

    To reset your GE dishwasher, try the following steps. First, unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet or turn off the circuit breaker for at least 5 minutes. Then, plug the dishwasher back in or turn the breaker back on. If the issue was a minor glitch or error, this should reset the dishwasher and the flashing lights may stop. If the problem persists, further troubleshooting may be required to identify and fix the underlying cause.

  • Can a faulty door latch cause my GE dishwasher to not start and display flashing lights?

    Yes, a faulty door latch or door switch is one of the common reasons for flashing lights and the dishwasher not starting. The dishwasher has a safety feature that prevents it from operating unless the door is securely closed. If the door latch is misaligned, broken, or if the door switch is malfunctioning, the dishwasher will not start. You can test the latch or switch with a multimeter for continuity and replace the faulty part if needed.
     

  • What should I do if my GE dishwasher’s control board is malfunctioning and the lights are flashing?

    If your GE dishwasher’s control board is malfunctioning, it may cause the lights to flash and prevent the dishwasher from starting. The control board manages the dishwasher’s cycles and processes, and if it’s defective, the unit may fail to respond. Diagnosing a control board issue typically requires testing with a multimeter. If the control board is found to be faulty, it will need to be replaced. It’s recommended to consult a professional technician for this type of repair, as replacing the control board can be complex.

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