Dishwasher Error Code Checker
Check Your Dishwasher Error Code
Enter your dishwasher brand and error code to find out what it means and how to fix it.
Your dishwasher just stopped mid-cycle. The lights are blinking, it’s silent, or maybe it’s stuck on "clean" with no sign of moving. You’ve tried turning it off and on again, but nothing changes. Before you call a repair tech or start thinking about buying a new one, there’s a good chance a simple reset will fix it. Most modern dishwashers have a built-in reset function - not because they’re broken, but because they’re confused.
Why Your Dishwasher Needs a Reset
Dishwashers aren’t just tubs with spray arms. They’re smart appliances with control boards, sensors, and software. A power surge, a blocked drain, a sensor glitch, or even a door that didn’t latch properly can throw the system off. The control panel gets stuck in an error state and stops responding to normal commands. Resetting it clears that temporary glitch, like rebooting your phone when it freezes.You don’t need special tools or technical skills. Most resets take less than five minutes. And if it works? You’ve saved yourself a service call that could cost $100 or more.
How to Reset a Dishwasher: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Turn off the power Unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet. If it’s hardwired (no visible plug), turn off the circuit breaker that controls it. Look for a breaker labeled "Dishwasher," "Kitchen," or "Appliance" in your main electrical panel. Flip it to the OFF position. This cuts all power to the control board and forces a full reboot.Wait at least five minutes. Some models need up to ten. Don’t rush this. The internal capacitors need time to fully discharge. If you turn the power back on too soon, the reset won’t stick.
Step 2: Clear any standing water
Before you turn the power back on, check the bottom of the dishwasher. If there’s water sitting there, it could be the reason the cycle stopped. Use a towel or a cup to remove it. A flooded dishwasher often triggers a safety lock that won’t release until the water is gone.Step 3: Press and hold the Start/Reset button
Once the power is off and the water is cleared, plug the dishwasher back in or flip the breaker back on. Now, look for the Start or Reset button. On most models, it’s labeled clearly. Press and hold it for 5 to 10 seconds. You might hear a click or see the lights flash. That’s normal.On some brands, you need to press a sequence. For example:
- GE: Press "Hi-Temp Wash" then "Air Dry" five times in a row.
- Whirlpool: Press "Heated Dry," then "Normal Wash," then "Heated Dry" again, all within five seconds.
- Bosch: Hold "Start" for three seconds, then press "Cancel" twice.
If you’re not sure what your model needs, check the user manual. Most manuals are free to download online by searching your model number + "manual."
What If the Reset Doesn’t Work?
If the dishwasher still won’t start after a reset, the issue is likely mechanical or sensor-related. Here’s what to check next:- Door latch: If the door doesn’t seal properly, the dishwasher won’t run. Try closing it firmly and listen for a click. If the latch feels loose or broken, it may need replacement.
- Filter: Clogged filters are the #1 cause of dishwasher problems. Remove the bottom rack and take out the filter (usually a cylindrical mesh at the base). Rinse it under warm water. Remove any food bits, grease, or debris. Reinstall it snugly.
- Drain hose: If water isn’t draining, the hose might be kinked or blocked. Check under the sink. Make sure the hose isn’t pinched between the cabinet and the wall. If you have a garbage disposal, run it to clear any blockage.
- Thermostat or heating element: If the dishwasher runs but never heats the water, the heating element may be dead. You’ll notice dishes come out wet and cold. This requires a multimeter to test - best left to a pro.
Common Error Codes and What They Mean
Modern dishwashers show error codes when something’s wrong. These aren’t random. Each code points to a specific issue:| Brand | Error Code | Meaning | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool | F1 | Water inlet problem | Check water supply valve - make sure it’s fully open |
| Bosch | E15 | Water leak detected | Check for leaks under the unit; dry the floor and reset |
| GE | 1-1 | Door switch issue | Press door firmly shut; replace switch if it still won’t latch |
| Maytag | 5-1 | Heating element failure | Test element with multimeter; replace if no continuity |
| Samsung | 9E | Drain pump problem | Clear filter and check drain hose for blockages |
Don’t panic if you see a code. Most are fixable without replacing the whole unit. The reset often clears temporary sensor errors. If the code returns after a reset, you’ve got a real hardware issue.
When to Call a Professional
Resetting works in about 70% of cases where the dishwasher just stops running. But if you’ve tried everything and it still won’t start, it’s time to call a repair technician. Here are the signs you need help:- The control panel is completely dead - no lights, no response to any buttons.
- You smell burning plastic or see smoke.
- Water is leaking from the bottom or sides of the unit.
- The dishwasher runs but doesn’t clean dishes - water isn’t spraying.
- Error codes keep coming back after reset and filter cleaning.
These aren’t DIY fixes. A broken control board, faulty pump, or damaged wiring needs tools, training, and replacement parts. A qualified appliance tech can diagnose it in under an hour. In Vancouver, most repair services charge between $80 and $150 for a service call - much cheaper than replacing the whole dishwasher.
Preventing Future Problems
Once your dishwasher is working again, avoid the same issue next time:- Scrape plates before loading - don’t let food debris go down the drain.
- Run the garbage disposal before starting the dishwasher - clears the drain line.
- Check and clean the filter every two weeks - it’s the most overlooked part.
- Use quality detergent. Powder or pods work better than gel in hard water areas like Vancouver.
- Don’t overload the racks. Water needs to circulate freely.
Most dishwasher failures happen because of neglect - not age. A well-maintained unit lasts 10 to 12 years. Some even make it to 15.
Final Tip: Don’t Ignore the Small Stuff
If your dishwasher makes a strange noise, smells odd, or leaves a film on your glasses, don’t wait for it to break completely. These are early warnings. Clean the filter. Run a vinegar cycle (place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot cycle without dishes). It clears grease and mineral buildup. Do this monthly and you’ll avoid most resets down the road.Can I reset my dishwasher without turning off the power?
No. A true reset requires cutting power to clear the control board’s memory. Simply pressing buttons won’t fix a system stuck in error mode. Always unplug the unit or flip the breaker.
Why does my dishwasher keep needing to be reset?
If you’re resetting your dishwasher more than once a month, something’s wrong. It could be a faulty door latch, a failing water inlet valve, or a clogged drain. Frequent resets mean the system is constantly detecting a problem - and it’s not fixing itself. Clean the filter, check the drain hose, and inspect the door seal. If it still resets often, get it checked by a technician.
Will resetting my dishwasher erase my settings?
Most dishwashers keep your preferred settings (like delay start or extra dry) even after a reset. The reset only clears temporary errors, not user preferences. But if you’re unsure, check your manual. Some older models may reset to factory defaults.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
Clean it every two weeks if you use your dishwasher daily. If you use it less often, once a month is fine. A clogged filter is the #1 reason dishwashers stop draining or don’t clean well. It’s quick - just twist it out, rinse under warm water, and put it back.
Is it worth repairing a dishwasher that’s 10 years old?
Yes, if it’s still cleaning well and doesn’t have major leaks or electrical issues. Most dishwashers last 10-12 years. Replacing a pump, filter, or door switch costs $100-$200. A new dishwasher runs $500-$1,000. Repairing is almost always the smarter choice unless the unit is leaking constantly or the control board is fried.
Next Steps
If your dishwasher is working after the reset, celebrate. But don’t stop there. Clean the filter today. Run a vinegar cycle this week. Keep a small notebook - write down when you reset it and what you did before it happened. Patterns show up over time. Maybe you notice it fails after running the garbage disposal. Maybe it only happens on cold days. That info helps you prevent the next problem before it starts.Most dishwasher issues aren’t about broken parts - they’re about missed maintenance. Keep it clean, keep it clear, and it’ll keep running.
