mypros+
Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code LIGHT flashes

Water intake fault

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Water intake fault – fewer than 80 pulses within 60 seconds, or correct number of pulses not achieved within 255 seconds; program stopped.

First step from the service manual

Check water inlet, flow meter, inlet water valve, and wiring.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for LIGHT flashes.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What LIGHT flashes means on a GE dishwasher

The LIGHT flashes error on a GE dishwasher indicates a water intake fault tied to pulse counts measured by the flow meter. The control expects the flow meter to register at least 80 pulses within the first 60 seconds of fill, and the total correct pulse count must be reached within 255 seconds. If either threshold is not met, the control board halts the program and triggers this fault. The flow meter is a hall-effect sensor that generates electrical pulses as water passes through a rotating impeller. An insufficient pulse count means the control cannot confirm that an adequate volume of water entered the tub.

The most common sources of this fault are restricted or failed water supply conditions. A kinked inlet hose, a closed or partially closed supply valve, or low household water pressure can all reduce flow to the point where the pulse thresholds are not met. The inlet water valve itself is a frequent culprit: if the valve solenoid has failed or if debris is blocking the valve screen, flow will be restricted or completely blocked. Wiring faults between the inlet valve, the flow meter, and the control board can also prevent accurate pulse signals from being received, causing the control to see a fill that never happened.

Diagnostic work should begin with confirming the water supply is fully open and delivering adequate pressure. From there, inspect the inlet hose and valve screen for debris. The flow meter should be tested by verifying it produces a pulse signal during fill. The inlet valve solenoid coil can be tested for continuity and proper resistance. Wiring harness connections at all three components, the flow meter, inlet valve, and control board, should be inspected for corrosion, looseness, or damage before condemning any individual part.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of LIGHT flashes

  1. 01

    Closed or restricted water supply

    Wiring / connection

    If the household shut-off valve under the sink is partially or fully closed, water flow will be insufficient to meet the pulse count threshold. Check that the valve is fully open and that the inlet hose is not kinked.

  2. 02

    Clogged inlet valve screen

    Wiring / connection

    A fine mesh screen inside the water inlet valve can accumulate mineral deposits and debris over time, restricting flow. Inspect and clean the screen, or replace the inlet valve if the screen cannot be cleared.

  3. 03

    Failed water inlet valve solenoid

    Part replacement

    If the solenoid coil inside the inlet valve has failed, the valve will not open fully or at all. Test the solenoid for continuity and proper resistance; a failed solenoid requires valve replacement.

  4. 04

    Faulty flow meter

    Part replacement

    The flow meter uses a spinning impeller and hall-effect sensor to count pulses as water passes through. If the impeller is jammed or the sensor has failed, the control board will not receive the expected pulse count even if water is flowing normally.

  5. 05

    Wiring or connector fault

    Wiring / connection

    Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring between the flow meter, inlet valve, and control board can interrupt the pulse signal. Inspect all connectors and harness segments in this circuit for visible damage or poor contact.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about LIGHT flashes

What does LIGHT flashes mean on a GE dishwasher?
The LIGHT flashes code indicates a water intake fault. The dishwasher's control monitors a flow meter that generates pulses as water enters the tub. If fewer than 80 pulses are counted within 60 seconds, or the required total pulse count is not reached within 255 seconds, the control stops the program and displays this fault. It means the appliance cannot confirm that enough water entered the tub to run the wash cycle safely.
Can I fix the LIGHT flashes error on my GE dishwasher myself?
Some causes of this error are DIY-friendly. Start by confirming the water supply valve under the sink is fully open and that the inlet hose is not kinked. Cleaning a clogged inlet valve screen is also a task most homeowners can handle. Testing or replacing the inlet valve solenoid and flow meter requires basic electrical testing skills and comfort working with water supply connections, so some users may prefer to call a technician for those steps.
Is it safe to continue using my dishwasher when the LIGHT flashes error is showing?
No. When this fault is triggered, the control board stops the wash program to prevent the dishwasher from running without adequate water. Running a cycle without proper water fill could damage the pump and heating element. The fault should be diagnosed and resolved before running additional cycles.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the LIGHT flashes error?
A reset may clear the fault temporarily and allow the dishwasher to attempt another cycle, but if the underlying cause is not corrected, the error will return. To reset, cut power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for a few minutes and restore it. If the same fault appears again on the next fill cycle, the root cause involving the water supply, inlet valve, flow meter, or wiring must be addressed.
How much does it cost to repair the LIGHT flashes error on a GE dishwasher?
Repair costs depend on which component has failed. Cleaning an inlet valve screen or adjusting the supply valve costs nothing beyond your time. Replacing a water inlet valve typically runs between $40 and $120 for the part, while a flow meter replacement is generally in the $30 to $90 range. Adding professional labor, a service call can total anywhere from $100 to $300 or more depending on your location and the specific repair needed.

Related GE dishwasher codes

All GE dishwasher codes
View all 222 GE dishwasher codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass