Dishwasher Stops Mid Cycle and Lights Blink (15 Common Reasons and Solution!)

Hi, Dear Visitor Welcome to Our Helpful Blog. 

If Your Dishwasher Stops Mid-Cycle and Lights Blink for Minutes Don’t Worry This Is a Common Thing. 

In this Guide, We Provide You with 15 Common Tips to Resolve This issue.so Let’s Start Now and Read Every Tip in Detail.

The dishwasher Stops the cycle and the Lights Blink

Power Interruption

Cause

Power interruptions can occur due to a multitude of reasons. It could be a consequence of a local power outage, faulty wiring in your home, or even issues with the fuse in the dishwasher circuit. 

A sudden surge or dip in power can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle and trigger blinking lights as a warning signal.

Solution

To address the issue, first, check your local power supply and ensure there are no outages. 

If the power supply is constant, inspect the wiring of your dishwater for any visible faults, and consider calling a professional if you suspect a deeper electrical issue. 

Lastly, replace the fuse in your dishwasher circuit, as a faulty fuse could disrupt the power supply. Always remember, when dealing with electrical appliances, safety should be your utmost priority.

Faulty Door Latch

Cause

A common reason why a dishwasher stops mid-cycle is due to a faulty door latch. 

The dishwasher is programmed to halt operation if it detects that the door is not closed properly. 

If the door latch is defective, even if the door is closed, the dishwasher might interpret it as being open, causing it to stop mid-cycle.

Solution

To resolve this issue, inspect the door latch for any visible defects. If the latch appears worn out or broken, it will need to be replaced. 

Replacing a dishwasher’s door latch is a relatively simple task that can usually be accomplished with a few basic tools. 

However, if you are unsure, it is always better to call a professional technician to handle the repair. Maintaining the safety and efficacy of your dishwasher should be a priority.

Broken Timer

Cause

A malfunctioning timer is a common cause for a dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, accompanied by blinking lights. 

The timer controls the sequences of the washing cycle, sending the power to each component at the right time. If it’s faulty, the cycle may halt unexpectedly.

A broken timer could be due to normal wear and tear or electrical issues. It’s essential to check if there are any loose connections or burn marks indicating a possible short circuit.

Solution

When faced with a broken timer, the most straightforward solution is to replace it. 

DIY repairs for timers are rarely successful and can lead to more significant problems if not handled correctly. 

Ensure to consult with a professional or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before replacing the timer. Always unplug the dishwasher before attempting any repairs to prevent electrical shock.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Cause

A malfunctioning thermostat can interrupt a dishwasher’s cycle due to its role in regulating the dishwasher’s temperature. 

If the thermostat is faulty, it may incorrectly read the temperature, causing the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle as a protective measure against overheating or underheating.

A thermostat malfunction prevents the dishwasher from reaching the necessary temperature for optimal cleaning. 

This can cause the dishwasher to stop and the lights to blink as a warning signal.

Solution

The solution to a malfunctioning thermostat is typically replacement rather than repair. This is because thermostats are often sealed units.

Engaging a professional is crucial to ensure correct diagnosis and replacement. 

They can verify that the thermostat is the issue before proceeding with the replacement to avoid unnecessary costs. 

Indicators of a faulty thermostat include the dishwasher not completing cycles, not getting hot enough, or showing blinking lights.

Clogged Drain

Cause

A clogged drain is one of the common reasons your dishwasher stops mid-cycle. 

Food particles, grease, and detergent can accumulate over time in the dishwasher drain, leading to blockages. 

This can interrupt the normal water flow, causing your dishwasher to stop functioning properly.

Key takeaways:

1. Food particles, grease, and detergent build-up can cause a clogged drain.

2. Blockages in the drain disrupt normal water flow.

3. This can cause your dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.

Solution

To address a clogged drain, first, turn off and unplug your dishwasher. Remove the lower rack and inspect the dishwasher drain. 

If you see an obvious clog, remove it. If not, you may need to use a plumber’s snake or a similar tool to clear the blockage. 

Once done, run a cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner to ensure all residue is removed.

Key actions:

1. Turn off and unplug the dishwasher.

2. Inspect the drain for blockages and remove if found.

3. Use a plumber’s snake if necessary.

4. Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner.

Damaged Heating Element

Cause

The heating element is a crucial component in a dishwasher, responsible for heating up the water to the required temperature. 

If the heating element is damaged, it could cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle, with lights flashing as an indication of the problem. 

The damaged element might not be able to heat the water adequately, which could cause the dishwasher’s thermostat to shut down the entire unit.

The heating element is essential for achieving optimal water temperature. 

A damaged element can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. This can be indicated by lights flashing on the unit.

Solution

The first step in addressing a damaged heating element is to verify its condition. You can do this with a multimeter. If the heating element is indeed damaged, it will need to be replaced. 

Always remember to disconnect the dishwasher from its power source before you begin any repair work. 

After the replacement, your dishwasher should operate normally, with no mid-cycle stops or blinking lights.

To confirm a damaged heating element, use a multimeter. If it’s damaged, it needs to be replaced. 

Always disconnect the dishwasher from power before starting any repair. The dishwasher should operate normally after the replacement.

Faulty Water Inlet Valve

Cause

A malfunctioning water inlet valve might be the reason why your dishwasher stops mid-cycle and the lights blink. 

The water inlet valve controls the amount of water entering the dishwasher. If it’s defective, the dishwasher may not fill or may overfill, causing it to stop and the lights to blink.

Solution

To resolve this issue, you’ll need to check the water inlet valve for damage or signs of defect. If the valve is faulty, it will need to be replaced. 

Keep in mind that replacing a water inlet valve is a moderately difficult task. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional. 

Always remember to disconnect the appliance from the power source before starting any repair.

Blocked Spray Arm

Cause

One of the common reasons why a dishwasher stops mid-cycle and the lights blink is a blocked spray arm. 

The spray arm in a dishwasher is a critical component that rotates and sprays water onto the dishes to clean them. 

Over time, food particles or other debris can clog up the holes in the spray arm, restricting water flow and causing the dishwasher to malfunction.

Solution

The solution to a blocked spray arm is quite straightforward. You should first switch off and unplug the dishwasher to ensure safety, then open the dishwasher and remove the lower rack to access the spray arm. 

Inspect the spray arm for any visible blockages and clean them out, preferably with a soft brush or cloth. 

For harder-to-reach debris, a toothpick or similar tool can be used. After cleaning, ensure to put the spray arm back properly and run a test cycle to confirm if the issue has been resolved.

Defective Pressure Switch

Cause

A defective pressure switch in your dishwasher might be the reason it stops mid-cycle, and the lights blink. The pressure switch is responsible for sensing the water level in the machine. 

If it’s defective, the dishwasher may misunderstand the water level, causing it to halt unexpectedly.

A defective pressure switch can misinterpret the water level, leading to unexpected halts. 

This issue is identified by the machine stopping mid-cycle, and the lights start blinking.

Solution

Replacing the defective pressure switch can solve this problem. You can find a replacement part online or at a local appliance store. 

If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring a professional. Always remember to disconnect the dishwasher from the power source before starting any repair.

The solution to a defective pressure switch is to replace it with a new one. 

Always disconnect the power before starting the repair, and if in doubt, hire a professional.

Overfilled Dishwasher

Cause

When a dishwasher is overfilled, it can trigger the device’s flood switch. 

This safety mechanism is designed to prevent water damage by shutting off the dishwasher if it detects an excessive amount of water. 

Overfilling can result from a faulty water inlet valve, a blocked overflow tube, or simply loading the dishwasher beyond its capacity.

Solution

The solution to an overfilled dishwasher involves first identifying the source of overfilling.

If the issue is due to overloading, it’s crucial to ensure pots, dishes, and cutlery are not stacked too high or placed haphazardly. 

If the issue persists, the water inlet valve or overflow tube should be inspected for defects or blockages. It is recommended to consult a professional technician if you’re unsure how to proceed.

Dysfunctional Float Switch

Cause

In a dishwasher, the float switch is a crucial component that prevents overfilling by shutting off the water flow when necessary. 

However, if this switch is dysfunctional, the dishwasher may stop mid-cycle and lights may start to blink. 

Causes can vary from a switch stuck in the ‘up’ position to a switch that is not correctly wired to the control panel.

Common causes include a stuck switch, faulty wiring, or a defective switch.

Solution

Resolving the issue of a dysfunctional float switch often involves either freeing the stuck switch or replacing it if it’s defective. 

Begin by locating the float switch in your dishwasher and check if it’s stuck. If it moves freely, then the issue might be with the wiring or the switch itself might be defective.

Check for a stuck switch, examine the wiring, or consider replacing the switch.

Unserviced Filters

Cause

Unserviced filters in a dishwasher can lead to the appliance stopping mid-cycle and the lights blinking. 

Such filters trap food particles and other debris, and over time, if not cleaned regularly, they become clogged, impeding the normal flow of water. 

This can result in the dishwasher abruptly halting its cycle due to water flow issues, and the lights may start to blink as an error signal.

Regular maintenance of dishwasher filters is crucial, and failure to do so can result in the appliance stopping mid-cycle. 

Clogged filters can impede normal water flow, leading to operational issues.

Solution

The solution to this problem is fairly straightforward – regular cleaning or replacing of the dishwasher filters. 

Start by locating the filter, usually found at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove it and clean it thoroughly under running water. If the filter is worn out, consider replacing it with a new one.

Regular cleaning or replacement of filters can prevent the dishwasher from stopping mid-cycle.

It’s always a good practice to clean the filter under running water and replace it if worn out.

Worn Out Pump Assembly

Cause

The dishwasher pump assembly is a crucial component that circulates water within the machine. 

It can wear out over time due to regular use or a build-up of hard water minerals, which may lead to the dishwasher stopping mid-cycle and lights blinking.

The pump assembly’s degradation can impede the normal circulation of water, thereby affecting the dishwasher’s cleaning efficiency.

Solution

The solution involves replacing the worn-out pump assembly with a new one. It’s an intricate task that requires technical know-how, so it’s advisable to seek professional assistance.

Before placing a service call, ensure to check the warranty of your appliance. Many manufacturers cover pump assembly replacement under their warranty terms.

Damaged Control Panel

Cause

The control panel of a dishwasher is essentially its brain. If it gets damaged, it could cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. 

This could be due to a power outage, a wiring issue, or simply wear and tear over time.

If the control panel of your dishwasher is not working properly, it’s likely that the dishwasher will stop functioning in the middle of a cycle, leaving your dishes half-cleaned.

Solution

The solution to a damaged control panel is usually replacing it. Before doing so, it’s important to ensure that the control panel is indeed the issue. 

To do this, you should consult with a professional technician.

Replacing a faulty control panel is usually the most effective way to address this problem. 

Always seek professional advice before attempting to replace any major appliance components.

Faulty Wiring

Cause

Faulty wiring is a common cause of dishwashers stopping mid-cycle. 

The dishwasher is a complex appliance that requires the correct electrical input to function efficiently. 

If there’s a fault in the wiring system, it may lead to an inconsistent power supply, which can cause the dishwasher to stop functioning and lights to blink mid-cycle.

Solution

One of the primary solutions for faulty wiring is to solicit professional help. An experienced electrician or service technician can inspect and repair faulty wiring, ensuring that the appliance receives a consistent power supply. 

It’s important not to attempt such repairs yourself, as handling electrical components can be hazardous if not dealt with correctly.

Remember that faulty wiring in appliances is a serious issue that can lead to electrical fires. 

Always unplug your dishwasher if you suspect wiring issues. Never attempt to repair electrical faults on your own unless you are a trained professional.

What Can Do to Avoid These Problems in the Future

Regular Maintenance: 

Always keep an eye on your dishwasher’s overall condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prolong the life of the appliance and help prevent issues from occurring in the first place.

Load Correctly: 

Make sure to load your dishwasher correctly. Overcrowding can block water from reaching all the dishes, causing the dishwasher to work harder and potentially leading to breakdowns.

Use the Right Detergent: 

Not all detergents are suitable for all dishwasher models. Always use a detergent recommended by your dishwasher’s manufacturer.

Check for Blockages: 

Regularly inspect the dishwasher’s spray arm and drain for any blockages. Food debris or other items can clog these areas and cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.

Professional Inspections: 

If you’re frequently experiencing problems, it might be worthwhile to have a professional appliance technician inspect your dishwasher. They can spot any potential issues early and advise on preventative measures.

Conclusion

A dishwasher stopping mid-cycle and the lights blinking can indicate several issues. This could be due to a faulty door latch, a malfunctioning timer, or a problem with the electronic control board. 

It is crucial to diagnose the problem accurately to resolve it effectively. Depending on the complexity, you may need a professional appliance repair service. 

Regular maintenance can also prevent such issues, ensuring your dishwasher runs smoothly and efficiently.

FAQs

Why is my dishwasher blinking and stopping?

Your dishwasher might be blinking and stopping due to a system error or malfunctioning component.

Why does my dishwasher keep stopping mid cycle?

Frequent stopping during the cycle could be due to an interruption in the power supply or a faulty timer.

Why is the normal light blinking on my dishwasher?

The normal light blinks on your dishwasher to signal an error or issue needing your attention.

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