It’s frustrating when your KitchenAid dishwasher suddenly starts malfunctioning. You load up the dirty dishes after a nice family meal, expecting sparkling clean plates in about an hour. Instead, you notice an annoying KitchenAid dishwasher clean light blinking 7 times. What does this error code mean?
This abnormal blinking is probably indicating an internal issue with the dishwasher’s heating mechanism or thermostat which is stopping your appliance from properly washing and drying the dishes.
The good news is that this seven times blinking light can often be resolved at home without paying dollars to a technician. In this article, I will walk you through the common causes of seven times blinking clean lights on KitchenAid dishwashers. You’ll also learn the troubleshooting tips to get your back to normal condition.
What does the 7 times blinking clean light mean on the KitchenAid dishwasher?
The 7 times blinking clean light on a KitchenAid dishwasher indicates a heating issue. This error occurs when the control board can’t detect the required temperature rise in the water. It signifies a problem with the dishwasher’s heating element or control board, preventing the water from reaching the necessary temperature for proper cleaning.
Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher clean light blinking 7 times?
The clean light on your KitchenAid dishwasher will blink 7 times to indicate a fault in the heating circuit. This occurs when the wires powering the heating element become disconnected, preventing the dishwasher from properly heating the water to wash and dry dishes.
Some uncommon possible causes include a faulty heating element, a defective thermostat that fails to regulate the temp, a damaged control board, a bad wash pump motor, insufficient power supply, a faulty door lock, a clogged filter, and a technical software bug.
When you see this 7-blink pattern, it means your dishwasher has detected an internal issue that is preventing the appliance from cleaning your dishes. The blinking is an error code designed to notify you about the heating-related issue so that you can identify the specific problem and fix it with ease.
How do you fix a clean light blinking 7 times on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
First, ensure the dishwasher is receiving power by turning on the breaker. If the issue continues, follow the troubleshooting steps provided below.
Check the heating circuit.
A damaged heating circuit is one of the most common causes of the 7-blink error. Inside the dishwasher, the wires connect the heating element to the power supply, helping it to heat up the water during wash cycles.
However, if these wires become loose, corroded, or disconnected, the heating element will not receive enough voltage to operate. As a result, the clean light flashes 7 times to indicate the heating problem.
To troubleshoot this, you’ll need to inspect the heating component wires connected to the dishwasher’s internal wiring and power supply. Check the circuit for any loose wire connections and tighten it securely.
Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the heating circuit wires. If the meter doesn’t show any readings, replace the wire harness.
To do so, you can call a professional, as he can do it more efficiently. You can also contact KitchenAid customer support for further assistance.
After that, start the dishwasher to check if the problem is resolved. If not, try the next method.
Check for a malfunctioning door lock.
A faulty door lock can also trigger the clean light to blink 7 times. You should latch the dishwasher door within three seconds of starting the wash cycle. However, if the lock is damaged or the dishwasher is overloaded with dishes, the door will be unable to close within 3 seconds.
The dishwasher will believe that there is an internal issue preventing its operation. As a result, it will flash the light seven times.
To fix this, begin by ensuring no dishes are preventing the door from closing. Remove any oversized pans or plates. Inspect the door lock for any broken or loose components. You may need to replace the locking tabs or the catch.
Fix the heater
The heating component is another potential reason for the 7-blink error code. The heater heats the air inside the dishwasher up to 170°F during the dry cycle. However, if the heating element has burned out or broken, it will be unable to generate enough heat.
No heat means the dishes will remain wet, resulting in the flashing clean lights on the control panel.
To test the heater, use a multimeter to check for the continuity in it. If it shows no continuity, replace the heater with a new functioning one.
Inspect the thermostat
If your clean light is still blinking seven times you must check the thermostat once.
The thermostat controls the heating element to maintain the proper water temperature during wash and dry cycles. However, if the thermostat is defective, it provides incorrect information about the temperature.
As a result, the machine will start to overheat or underheat. Overheating can damage dishes while underheating prevents the removal of dirt from the dishes.
To fix this issue, use a thermometer to check the water temperature inside the dishwasher. If the reading differs from the one showing on display, it means the thermostat is defective and you will need to replace it.
Buy a thermostat according to your dishwasher model and watch the video that I have provided below to learn the best way to replace it.
Clear the software glitches.
Software glitches on the dishwasher can also cause the 7-blink error. Other than the dirt and debris, these “technical bugs” can disrupt normal operations.
However, rebooting the electronic control board often clears out these glitches. To do so:
- First, unplug the power cord from the outlet.
- Then, wait for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Finally, reconnect the plug to complete the hard reset.
If the issue still continues, enter a special diagnostic mode on the KitchenAid dishwasher by pressing a sequence of buttons per the written in the user manual.
A defective wash motor
The clean light blinking errors can also be caused by a malfunctioning wash motor. The wash motor powers the circulation pump to spray water through the dishwasher spray arms and drain out dirty water. However, if the motor becomes defective, it will be unable to do these functions.
When the water will not spray and drain, the dishwasher will be unable to clean the dishes properly. As a result, you will see a seven times blinking light on the panel. First, ensure the spray arm is not clogged, before testing the motor.
To check the wash pump motor, you’ll need to schedule a service. Opening the dishwasher to access the motor is a little complex task. Call and ask a technician to repair your motor or replace it if necessary.
Check the Water Inlet valve
The inlet valve is in charge of controlling water flowing into the appliance. A faulty water inlet valve can hamper the proper dishwasher operation and cause the clean light to blink seven times.
You may notice the dishwasher not filling up enough, random filling even when powered off, or water leaking onto the floor due to that defect.
To Troubleshoot the dishwasher’s inlet valve, inspect it carefully for cracks and leakage. Check the surroundings of the valve to clear the obstacles such as debris buildup.
If it is damaged badly, you should need to replace the water inlet valve by yourself or a professional technician. You can buy a new water inlet valve from an online or local store according to your model.
Inspect the sump filter for clogs.
The sump filter catches the food particles and debris from the water recirculating during wash cycles. However, over time, it can get blocked by dirt and debris.
A clogged filter will stop the water flow from spraying onto the dishes properly. Also, it will allow food particles to recirculate back onto the cleaned dishes. As a result, the dishwasher will illuminate the clean light 7 times on its panel.
Fortunately, cleaning a clogged sump filter is easy and can be done with some simple DIY steps. Follow the steps given below:
- Disconnect the dishwasher’s power from it.
- Now, open the dishwasher and locate the sump and filter at the bottom of the unit.
- Identify the clogs and prepare warm soapy water.
- Now use a brush and that solution to clear out the build-up and clog from the components.
- Lastly, reassemble the freshly scrubbed components and restore the dishwasher’s power.
You can also watch the below video to get visual clarity of fixing the 7 times flashing clean light error on the KitchenAid dishwasher.
How can I reset my KitchenAid dishwasher to clear the flashing lights?
Resetting the power to your dishwasher can clear the software glitches triggering the clean LED to illuminate multiple times. A KitchenAid dishwasher does not have a specific reset button, so you’ll need to do it manually.
To reset your dishwasher, first, unplug it from the electrical outlet. Then, wait around 5-10 minutes. After that, plug it back in to restore the power. Doing this will restart the control board. Now, start your appliance to check if the issue is resolved.
If that basic reset doesn’t work, there is a more advanced reset method. It will require pressing a sequence of control buttons to activate a self-diagnostic mode. Refer to your user’s manual to learn the steps needed for that mode.
In most of the models, pressing some combination of buttons like “High-Temp Wash” and “Heated Dry” simultaneously can work. The dishwasher will run multiple tests to diagnose the issue.
Resetting the dishwasher is one of the ways of rebooting the internal system, which will clear up the software or electrical errors that were causing the clean LED to blink seven times.
What are the consequences of ignoring the Clean Light blinking 7 times?
Ignoring the Clean Light blinking 7 times on your KitchenAid dishwasher can lead to several negative consequences:
- Continued malfunction: The blinking light indicates a water heating issue. Ignoring it means the dishwasher will continue to malfunction, leading to potential breakdowns.
- Poor cleaning performance: Without proper water heating, dishes won’t be cleaned effectively, leaving them dirty and unsanitary.
- Potential damage: Using the dishwasher with unresolved issues can cause further damage to internal components, especially the heating element or control board.
- Energy inefficiency: A malfunctioning heating element can lead to increased energy consumption, raising your electricity costs.
- Safety concerns: Heating element issues can pose safety risks if left unaddressed, such as electrical hazards or overheating.
- Inability to use appliance: Eventually, the dishwasher may stop working altogether, leaving you unable to use it until repairs are made.
What are the signs that my KitchenAid Dishwasher needs a professional’s help?
Signs that your KitchenAid dishwasher needs professional help include:
- Persistent error code: If the Clean Light blinking 7 times continues after resetting the dishwasher or running a diagnostic cycle, a professional diagnosis is likely needed.
- Failed DIY troubleshooting: If basic troubleshooting steps like checking the water supply and inspecting components don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional.
- Poor cleaning performance: Consistently dirty or wet dishes, even with the heated dry option, suggest issues with the heating element or water circulation that require expert attention.
- Unusual noises or operation: Strange sounds during operation or improper functioning, such as not filling with water properly, indicate potential internal issues that need a professional diagnosis.
How can I prevent the Clean Light from blinking 7 times in the future?
To prevent the Clean Light from blinking 7 times on your KitchenAid dishwasher in the future, follow these maintenance and operational tips:
- Clean the Filter Regularly: Remove and clean the dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent food particles from clogging the system and affecting water flow and heating.
- Check and Clean Spray Arms: Ensure the spray arms are free from debris and mineral buildup. Clean the holes with a soft brush to maintain proper water circulation.
- Use Dishwasher Cleaner: Run a dishwasher cleaner through a cycle every few months to remove buildup and maintain optimal performance.
- Inspect and Clean the Heating Element: Periodically check the heating element for any signs of damage or buildup. Clean it if necessary to ensure it heats water effectively.
- Run Hot Water Before Starting: Run hot water at the kitchen sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure the water entering the dishwasher is hot, helping the heating element maintain the correct temperature.
- Use the Correct Detergent: Use only detergents designed for automatic dishwashers. Avoid using hand-washing soap, which can cause clogs and affect performance.
- Avoid Overloading: Do not overload the dishwasher, as this can impede water flow and prevent proper cleaning and heating.
- Check Water Supply: Ensure the water supply to the dishwasher is turned on and that the water pressure is adequate. Low water pressure can affect the heating cycle.
Infographic: How to fix the 7 times blinking clean light on the KitchenAid dishwasher?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clean light stay on in my dishwasher?
The Clean Light remains on in some dishwashers until the door is reopened and relatched. Alternatively, pressing any pad before unlatching the door at the end of the cycle can also extinguish the clean light.
Can a faulty cleaning system cause the Clean Light to blink 7 times on my KitchenAid Dishwasher?
A faulty cleaning system could potentially cause the Clean Light to blink 7 times, but it’s not the most likely cause. The 7-blink error code typically indicates a problem with the water heating circuit, such as a faulty heating element or a control board issue.
Can a faulty drain pump cause the Clean Light to blink 7 times on my KitchenAid Dishwasher?
A faulty drain pump is unlikely to be the direct cause of the Clean Light blinking 7 times on your KitchenAid dishwasher. This error code usually points to issues with the water heating circuit rather than drainage problems.
Can I ignore the Clean Light blinking 7 times on my KitchenAid Dishwasher?
Ignoring the Clean Light blinking 7 times is not advisable. It indicates a water heating issue, leading to persistent operational problems, poor cleaning performance, potential component damage, energy inefficiency, safety risks, and possibly voiding your warranty.
Can I open the dishwasher when the clean light is on?
Absolutely, opening the dishwasher with the clean light on won’t harm it. There’s a button or lever that turns it off when you open the door.
Can I run a cleaning cycle on my KitchenAid Dishwasher if the Clean Light is blinking 7 times?
Running a cleaning cycle when the Clean Light is blinking 7 times is not recommended. This error suggests a heating circuit issue, and operating the dishwasher could pose safety risks, cause further damage, and result in ineffective cleaning due to inadequate water temperature.
Can I repair the Clean Light blinking 7 times issue on my KitchenAid Dishwasher myself?
You may attempt to repair the issue yourself if you’re comfortable with basic troubleshooting, such as checking and cleaning the heating element and resetting the dishwasher. However, for more complex problems involving the control board or persistent issues, professional help is recommended to ensure a proper and safe repair.
Why is the clean light blinking 2 times on my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A clean light flashing 2 times means the system detects stuck buttons/pads on your control panel or the control panel is faulty. Please try to unplug the dishwasher, get your hair dryer, and heat the control panel buttons/pads. While still hot, rub all buttons/pads using your thumb with a dry cloth.
Conclusion
If your dishwasher’s clean light is blinking seven times it indicates a heating-related issue. However, fixing this flashing LED is the first step in reviving your dishwasher back to normal condition. As outlined, the 7 flashes indicate some kind of heating issue. It can be caused due to wiring problems, blown fuses, bad thermostats, or heating element failure.
You should see the troubleshooting tips above before calling the professional as it can save hundreds of dollars from getting out of your pocket.
This was all from my side. I hope you found it helpful. If you have any queries, comment down below. I will be happy to help you out.
