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Error code reference

Dacor Range, Oven, Cooktop Error Code L4

Third Gen Dishwasher: Water intake fault

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What the L4 error code actually means

The L4 code means your dishwasher is not detecting enough water coming in during the fill cycle, so it has shut itself down to prevent running dry. This could be caused by a closed or faulty water supply valve, low water pressure, or a clog in the water line. The dishwasher will not run again until the water supply issue is found and corrected.

Diagnostic procedure

The full L4 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

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1
Confirm the fault
Power cycle the unit: switch off the breaker for 60 seconds, then restore power. If the code returns, the fault is persistent and the procedure below isolates the cause.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of L4

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Closed or restricted water supply valve
  2. 2Clogged inlet screen or filter
  3. 3Faulty water inlet valve
  4. 4Defective flow meter or pulse sensor
  5. 5Low household water pressure

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Questions people ask about L4

What does L4 mean on a Dacor range, oven, cooktop?
The L4 code on a Dacor Third Generation Dishwasher indicates a water intake fault. The dishwasher's control system monitors water flow using a pulse sensor and requires at least 80 pulses within 60 seconds, or the correct total pulse count within 255 seconds. If either condition is not met, the program stops and L4 is displayed. Despite appearing on range, oven, and cooktop product listings, this code is specific to Dacor's third generation dishwasher platform.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher while L4 is showing?
No, the dishwasher stops its program automatically when L4 triggers, so it will not operate until the fault is cleared. Attempting to bypass or ignore the code is not recommended, as running a dishwasher with inadequate water intake can damage the pump and heating element. Address the water supply issue before resuming use.
How much does it cost to repair an L4 error on a Dacor dishwasher?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If the fix is simply opening a valve or clearing a screen, there may be no parts cost at all, though a service call fee typically ranges from $75 to $150. Replacing a water inlet valve generally costs between $80 and $200 in parts, while a flow meter sensor replacement can range from $50 to $180, with labor added on top if a technician is performing the repair.
Can I fix the L4 error on my Dacor dishwasher myself?
Some causes of L4 are DIY-friendly, such as fully opening a partially closed supply valve, clearing a clogged inlet screen, or straightening a kinked water supply hose. These steps require no special tools and no replacement parts. If the inlet valve solenoid or flow meter sensor has failed, those repairs involve electrical components and water connections, and may be better suited for a qualified appliance technician.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the L4 error code?
A reset may clear the L4 code temporarily, but it will return at the next fill cycle if the underlying water intake problem has not been resolved. The control board will re-evaluate pulse counts every time a new cycle begins. A permanent fix requires correcting the water supply restriction or replacing the faulty component causing the low pulse count.

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