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Your Frigidaire dishwasher experiences an issue preventing it from initiating the cycle, evident through the blinking lights.
This issue can be attributed to various factors, such as a malfunctioning heating element, a loose door, an unresponsive touchpad, a faulty drain pump, or a problem with the control board.
Fortunately, many of these problems can be addressed through do-it-yourself solutions, negating the necessity for professional assistance.
Key Facts
- Power interruptions are the most common cause of blinking lights on Frigidaire dishwashers, and a simple reset can often fix the issue.
- A faulty drain pump can prevent the dishwasher from starting after a cycle, especially if water isn’t draining properly.
- A door not closing properly or a defective latch may trigger blinking lights and prevent the cycle from beginning.
- A malfunctioning touchpad or unresponsive control panel buttons can stop the dishwasher from operating correctly.
- If the control board is damaged, the dishwasher may fail to respond even though lights blink—requiring replacement.
Reasons for Frigidaire Dishwasher Not Starting Lights Blinking
1. Frigidaire Dishwasher May Be Having Power Supply Problems
When encountering issues with your Frigidaire dishwasher, the initial and recommended step is to perform a basic reset. Dishwashers are known for their user-friendliness and straightforward operation.
Nevertheless, when you confront a problem that leaves you questioning the appliance's functionality, it can be incredibly frustrating, particularly when you lack insight into the issue and its resolution.
The primary and often the most common cause for your dishwasher's failure to commence, even with blinking lights, is associated with the power supply.
Begin by deactivating the circuit breaker or disconnecting the appliance's power source. After a waiting period of at least five minutes, reactivate the appliance and select a fresh cleaning cycle to determine if the dishwasher resumes normal operation.
2. You May Be Dealing With a Faulty Drain Pump
Once your dishwashing cycle is complete, the removal of water from the tub is the responsibility of the drain pump, which employs an impeller to expel the water from the dishwasher and into the drain line.
In the event that your Frigidaire dishwasher refuses to initiate and the control panel's lights are flashing, there may be an issue with the drain pump.
Verify the continuity of the drain pump motor, and if it lacks continuity, it will be necessary to replace it, along with any other faulty components that may be contributing to the dishwasher's malfunction.
An excellent and cost-effective choice for a replacement motor is the Edgewater dishwasher pump. It's straightforward to install, has a longer lifespan, and offers the best value for your investment.
Pros and Cons of Frigidaire dishwasher
Pros
- Affordable Options
- Efficient Cleaning
- Spacious Interior
- Energy-Efficient
Cons
- Durability Issues
- Limited Features
- Inconsistent Drying
- Complex Repairs
Differences Between Frigidaire dishwasher and Amana dishwasher
Frigidaire
Frigidaire typically offers a variety of features and options in their dishwashers, including different wash cycles, adjustable racks, and energy-efficient models.
Amana
Amana dishwashers may have fewer advanced features, which can make them more straightforward but potentially lacking in some customization options.
Alternative to Frigidaire dishwasher
Kenmore
Kenmore offers a range of dishwashers with various features, and their models are often available at Sears or through the Sears website.
3. You Haven’t Closed the Door Properly
By now, it's common knowledge that a dishwasher must be securely closed before it can be operated. This ensures that water doesn't spill out of the machine and that your utensils remain inside during the cycle.
However, there's another crucial aspect to consider: the proper closure of the dishwasher's door. If you happen to notice the lights on your Whirlpool dishwasher flashing but the unit refuses to start, it's possible that the door hasn't been closed correctly.
Take a moment to ensure that the door is fully closed before attempting to press the start button again. Any issues related to the door latch or the door being securely closed can often be resolved by making sure it is firmly shut and locked into place.
In cases where the door latch seems to be functioning correctly, but the door still doesn't close entirely, it's possible that foreign objects are obstructing it. Small items like teaspoons may have accidentally become lodged in the door, preventing it from closing properly. Removing such obstructions should rectify the issue.
4. The Touchpad of Your Whirlpool Dishwasher is Defective
A faulty door switch or a malfunctioning touchpad stands out as one of the most common reasons why your Whirlpool dishwasher may not start, even if the control panel lights are blinking.
To diagnose this issue, try pressing various buttons on the touchpad to assess its functionality. If some buttons respond appropriately while others do not, this indicates a malfunctioning touchpad.
The touchpad is the area where you configure settings and select different cycles for the dishwasher, and its proper functioning is crucial for effective cleaning.
If you determine that the problem with your Whirlpool dishwasher not starting is indeed a faulty touchpad, it's advisable to promptly replace it. Some companies offer the touchpad as a separate component from the control panel, while others may require you to purchase both components together.
5. The Dishwasher’s Control Board Isn’t Working
When the control panel of your Frigidaire dishwasher isn't functioning correctly, the issue may lie with the ribbon cable connectors and/or the touchpad.
To address this problem, access the control panel located on the front of the unit. Inspect the ribbon cable connectors for signs of corrosion, examine the condition of the cable connecting to the touchpad, and ensure that all connections to the panel are securely fastened.
In cases where the control board is found to be broken, replacement might be necessary. Failing to replace it could result in the unit not starting, even if the lights are blinking.
Conclusion
When faced with the issue of Frigidaire dishwasher lights blinking, it's essential to systematically troubleshoot and address potential causes. Problems with the dishwasher's functioning can be attributed to various factors such as power supply, door closure, drain pump malfunctions, touchpad or control panel issues, and more.
By carefully investigating these components and following the appropriate steps for diagnosis and repair, you can often resolve the problem and have your dishwasher operating smoothly once again.
Remember to exercise caution and consult the manufacturer's guidelines or seek professional assistance if necessary to ensure the proper functioning of your Frigidaire dishwasher.
References
- ^ "How to Reset a Dishwasher," GE Appliances, https://www.geappliances.com
- ^ "Dishwasher Not Draining: How to Fix It," Consumer Reports, https://www.consumerreports.org
- ^ "Why Is My Dishwasher Not Starting?", Sears Home Services, https://www.searshomeservices.com
- ^ "Signs You Need a New Dishwasher Control Board," Angi (formerly Angie’s List), https://www.angi.com
- ^ "How to Replace a Dishwasher Door Latch," Home Depot, https://www.homedepot.com
My name is Wisdom Bassey, I’m a blog content writer and graphic designer who provides support and services for brands and different companies. I’m young and versatile, A tech enthusiast. I carry out deep research on every topic I choose to write about. You can reach me through my social media handles, I’m always available and ready to connect.