KitchenAid dishwashers are renowned for their durability, advanced features, and sleek design, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking reliable kitchen appliances. Equipped with innovations like power wash cycles, quiet motors, adjustable racks, and automatic detergent dispensers, these machines are engineered to simplify dishwashing. However, like any appliance, they can encounter issues that disrupt their performance. One common problem users face is the “Clean” light flashing on the control panel, signaling an error that requires attention. This article provides an in-depth exploration of why the “Clean” light flashes, what it means, and how to reset it effectively, offering practical solutions for KitchenAid dishwasher owners.
Understanding the Flashing “Clean” Light
The “Clean” light on a KitchenAid dishwasher isn’t just an indicator that your dishes are ready—it doubles as a diagnostic tool. When it flashes in a specific pattern, it’s communicating an error code. The most frequently reported pattern is seven blinks followed by a pause, which then repeats. This sequence typically points to a failure in heating the water to the required temperature within a set timeframe. Whether you own a model like the KUDS03CTWH3, KUDK03ITBS3, or KUDS01DJ, this issue can arise due to various underlying causes, ranging from simple fixes to more complex component failures.
Why Does the “Clean” Light Flash Seven Times?
The seven-blink pattern is a well-documented error code across multiple KitchenAid dishwasher models. It indicates that the dishwasher’s heating system—responsible for raising water temperature to sanitize dishes—has encountered a problem. The dishwasher expects incoming water to be around 110°F (43°C) and relies on its internal heater to maintain or increase that temperature during the cycle. If it can’t achieve this within the allotted time, the control board triggers the error, halting the cycle and flashing the “Clean” light.
This issue can stem from several factors:
- Cold Inlet Water – Water isn’t hot enough when entering.
- Faulty Heating Element – The heater isn’t warming the water.
- Control Board Malfunction – The board isn’t signaling the heater correctly.
- Low Water Pressure – Not enough water is entering the dishwasher.
- Faulty High-Limit Thermostat – Safety device preventing overheating.
- Bent Door Latch – Prevents proper door sealing, affecting heating.
Understanding the root cause is key to resolving the issue, and the first step is often resetting the dishwasher to clear the error.
How to Reset a KitchenAid Dishwasher with a Flashing “Clean” Light
Resetting the control board is a straightforward process that can resolve temporary glitches and clear the error code. Below is a step-by-step guide tailored to KitchenAid dishwashers, based on expert advice and user experiences.
Step-by-Step Reset Process
1. Reset the Control Board
A hard reset often resolves temporary glitches.
Reset Sequence:
- Press the following buttons in order:
- High Temp Wash → Heated Dry
- Repeat four times (total of 8 button presses).
- All lights will turn solid – Press Cancel to complete the reset.
- Restart the dishwasher.
If the reset fails, the control board may need replacement.
2. Check Inlet Water Temperature
- Run the kitchen faucet until hot water flows (to ensure 110°F+ water enters the dishwasher).
- If the water stays lukewarm, adjust your water heater settings.
3. Test Water Pressure
- Place a cup in the top rack facing up.
- Start a cycle – the cup should fill within 10 minutes.
- If not, check for clogs in the water inlet valve or supply line.
4. Inspect the Door Latch
- A bent striker latch can prevent proper sealing.
- Gently bend the latch downward to ensure a tight seal.
5. Test the Heating Element & Thermostat
- Unplug the dishwasher and remove the lower access panel.
- Use a multimeter to test:
- Heating Element: Should read 5–30 ohms.
- High-Limit Thermostat: Should read <1 ohm.
- If either fails, replace the faulty part.
6. Replace the Control Board (Last Resort)
If all else fails, the control board may be faulty and require replacement.
Table 1: Common Reset Sequences by Model
| Model | Reset Sequence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| KUDS03CTWH3 | High Temp Scrub, Heated Dry (x4) | Use “Air Dry” if no “Heated Dry” |
| KUDS01DJ | Heat Dry, Normal, Heat Dry, Normal | Older models may vary slightly |
| KUDK03ITBS3 | High Temp Wash, Heated Dry (x4) | Confirm button labels on your panel |
If the reset works and the dishwasher runs normally, the issue may have been a temporary glitch. However, if the “Clean” light resumes flashing, further troubleshooting is required.
Troubleshooting Persistent Flashing “Clean” Light Issues
When a reset doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s time to dig deeper. The seven-blink error often persists due to environmental factors or hardware malfunctions. Here’s how to systematically diagnose and fix the issue.
1. Check Incoming Water Temperature
KitchenAid dishwashers rely on hot water from your home’s supply to operate efficiently. If the water is too cold—say, below 100°F—the heater may not keep up, triggering the error.
- Solution: Before starting a cycle, run the kitchen faucet closest to the dishwasher until the water feels hot (around 110°F). This preheats the pipes, ensuring the dishwasher starts with adequately warm water.
- Pro Tip: If your water heater is set too low or located far from the dishwasher, consider adjusting its temperature or installing a point-of-use heater.
2. Verify Water Pressure
Low water pressure can prevent the dishwasher from filling properly, which in turn affects heating. To test this:
- Place a cup upright on the upper rack.
- Run a cycle for 10 minutes.
- Check if the cup is full. If not, pressure is insufficient.
- Solution: Inspect the water inlet valve and supply line for clogs or kinks. If the pump or motor assembly is clogged, disassemble and clean it to restore flow.
3. Inspect the Door Striker
A bent or misaligned door striker (the metal piece that engages the latch) can cause incomplete door closure, interrupting the cycle and triggering the error.
- Solution: Physically bend the striker downward so it aligns snugly with the latch when the door closes. It should barely clear the inner door liner.
4. Test Key Components
If the above steps don’t work, the issue may lie with a failed component. You’ll need a multimeter to test the following:
- Heater: Unplug the dishwasher, lay it on its back, and measure the heater’s resistance. A reading between 5-30 ohms indicates it’s functional; otherwise, replace it.
- High-Limit Thermostat: Test its resistance—less than 1 ohm means it’s good. A higher reading suggests replacement is needed.
- Control Board: If the heater and thermostat test fine, the control board is likely faulty. Since it can’t be tested directly, replacement is the next step.
Table 2: Component Resistance Specifications
| Component | Expected Resistance | Action if Out of Range |
|---|---|---|
| Heater | 5-30 ohms | Replace |
| High-Limit Thermostat | <1 ohm | Replace |
| Control Board | N/A (untestable) | Replace if others are good |
Real-World Examples and Solutions
To illustrate how these steps play out, let’s examine a few user scenarios involving the flashing “Clean” light.
Case 1: KUDS03CTWH3 – 9-Year-Old Unit
A user reported their KUDS03CTWH3 dishwasher’s “Clean” light blinking seven times. After resetting the control board using the High Temp Scrub/Heated Dry sequence, the error persisted. Testing revealed cold incoming water as the culprit. Running the faucet until hot resolved the issue temporarily, but low pressure was later identified. Cleaning the pump restored full functionality.
Case 2: KUDS01DJ – Non-Responsive Buttons
Another user’s KUDS01DJ showed a seven-blink pattern with unresponsive buttons. The reset sequence (Heat Dry, Normal x2) activated the lights, but the cycle wouldn’t start properly, accompanied by a buzzing noise. A technician diagnosed a failed circulation pump motor, which was replaced, fixing the problem.
Case 3: Mid-Cycle Stoppage
A dishwasher stopped mid-cycle, flashing seven times. The user had recently replaced the control board for a prior issue. Resetting worked temporarily, but the error returned. Testing the heater (found at 15 ohms) and thermostat (0.5 ohms) confirmed they were functional, pointing to a recurring control board fault—likely a manufacturing defect.
When to Call a Professional
While many issues can be resolved with DIY efforts, some situations warrant professional intervention:
- Persistent errors after resetting and troubleshooting.
- Electrical testing beyond your comfort level (e.g., multimeter use).
- Major component replacement (e.g., pump or motor assembly).
KitchenAid offers service scheduling online for the U.S. and Canada, along with extended service plans that can save up to 25% if purchased within 30 days of buying the appliance.
KitchenAid Support Links
| Service | United States | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule Repair | Online Form | Online Form |
| Extended Warranty | Learn More | Learn More |
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To minimize future “Clean” light flashing issues:
- Run Hot Water First: Always preheat the water supply before starting a cycle.
- Clean Regularly: Remove debris from the filter and pump monthly.
- Check Door Alignment: Ensure the striker and latch engage properly.
- Use Quality Detergent: Avoid clogs from subpar products.
Conclusion
A flashing “Clean” light on your KitchenAid dishwasher doesn’t have to spell disaster. By resetting the control board, checking water temperature and pressure, and testing key components, you can often resolve the issue without professional help. Whether it’s a simple fix like running hot water or a more involved repair like replacing a heater, this guide equips you with the knowledge to tackle the problem head-on. For stubborn cases, KitchenAid’s support network is just a click away. Keep your dishwasher running smoothly and enjoy the convenience it brings to your kitchen.
Quick Reference Table
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| 7 Flashes (Heating Error) | Reset control board, check water temp, test heating element |
| Dishwasher Won’t Start | Check door latch, power supply |
| Low Water Pressure | Inspect inlet valve, clear clogs |
| Motor Buzzing (No Spray) | Replace circulation pump |
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