Buzz
Troubleshooting common error codes that could point to an issue with your dishwasher
If you're curious about why the normal cycle light on your Samsung dishwasher is flashing, it's often due to models that lack a digital display for error messages. Instead, the light blinks to indicate problems. To understand what the blinking lights mean, observe which lights are flashing and the pattern. Use this guide to troubleshoot your Samsung dishwasher's blinking lights.
How to Diagnose Samsung Dishwasher’s Blinking Normal Lights
Identify the issue with your dishwasher by checking which lights are blinking. For example, if "Auto" and "Express 60" are blinking, the problem differs from when "Heavy" and "Delicate" are blinking.
Steps
"Auto" & "Express 60" Flashing
The control panel has a stuck button. This also occurs when "Auto", "Normal", and "Express 60" are blinking. To resolve this, power off the dishwasher and press each button on the control panel.
- Turn the dishwasher back on and check if pressing all the buttons fixed the issue.
- You might also notice "Normal" & "Delicate" flashing or "Normal" & "Quick+" lights blinking.
"Auto" & "Heavy" Flashing
Excess water in the dishwasher. This usually indicates a drainage problem, and this Mytour article explains how to troubleshoot a dishwasher that isn't draining properly.
- Check that the connected sink drain is working. If the sink drain is blocked, your dishwasher will not drain.
- This can also occur if the "Delicate" light is flashing or if "Heavy" & "Quick" lights are blinking. You might also see "Heavy" and "Smart Auto" blinking.
- If your dishwasher has the "Express 60" setting, a flashing "Heavy" light suggests a drainage issue.
"Auto" & "Normal" Flashing
The dishwasher is overheated. In this situation, empty the dishwasher and run a regular cycle.
- You may also notice "Normal" & "Quick" or "Normal" & "Smart Auto" lights flashing.
"Auto" or "Quick" Flashing
The water pressure or temperature is incorrect. This could be an issue if you live in a cold climate and suspect a broken pipe inside your walls. Inspect the incoming water hoses to ensure they aren't bent or blocking the water flow.
- Floodsafe hoses are not compatible with Samsung dishwashers.
- Make sure the water supply valve is fully open.
- This can also happen if "Express 60" or "Smart Auto" lights are flashing.
"Delicate" & "Quick" Flashing
The sensor is unable to detect if the door is properly closed. To resolve this, ensure the door is securely and fully shut.
"Heavy", "Delicate" & "Quick" Flashing
The temperature sensor is malfunctioning. To resolve this, empty the dishwasher and run a regular cycle.
- This can also occur with "Heavy," "Delicate" & "Smart Auto" flashing, as well as with "Heavy", "Quick+" & "Smart Auto" lights blinking.
"Heavy" & "Delicate" Flashing
The heating element is malfunctioning. To fix this, empty the dishwasher and run a regular cycle.
"Heavy" & "Express 60"
The dishwasher is not heating. You will need to request service if this occurs.
- You may also notice "Heavy" & "Quick+" flashing.
"Heavy" or "Normal" (for models without "Express 60")
The dishwasher has detected moisture. In this situation, the dishwasher will remain on and attempt to drain the detected water.
- Refer to this Mytour article for steps to eliminate leaks.
- Remove the dishwasher from under your cabinets to identify the water source; if you recently replaced a sink drain, the P-trap may cause water to backflow and flood the dishwasher. If this happens, use a bucket to clean the P-trap and allow the water to flow properly.
- Inspect your hoses for any visible damage.
- Allow standing water to dissipate or use a towel to dry the area.
- Excessive detergent use can also trigger this error. Use less detergent to prevent excess foam and possible leaks in the future.
"Normal", "Delicate" & "Quick"
The water is too hot. Ensure that the water supply is not set above 176 °F (80 °C).
- You may also see "Normal", "Delicate", & "Smart Auto" flashing, as well as "Normal", "Quick+", and "Smart Auto".
- If you adjust the water supply temperature but still see the error, there could be a mechanical issue with the dishwasher causing the water to overheat. In this case, request service.
"Normal", "Heavy" & "Express 60"
The thermistor has malfunctioned. If this happens, you'll need to request service.
- In this case, "Normal" & "Heavy" may be blinking.
"Normal", "Heavy" & "Quick"
The dishwasher is lacking sufficient water. To resolve this, empty the dishwasher and run a normal cycle. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can request service.
- You may also notice "Normal", "Heavy" & "Smart Auto" blinking.
All Four (or more) Lights Blinking
The control panel is unable to communicate with the dishwasher. To resolve this, power off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 2 minutes, then turn it back on. If the lights continue to blink, request service.
- For dishwashers with four cycles, all four lights will blink.
- Dishwashers with more than four cycles will have all lights blinking.
Other Light Combinations
Not all blinking lights indicate an issue. On some Samsung dishwashers, blinking lights may simply reflect the active cycle. You can distinguish between normal blinking and an error code by observing the specific lights that are blinking.
