mypros+
Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code START/RESET flashing

Cycle has been interrupted by pressing the START/RESET keypad; the dishwasher will automatically drain out…

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Cycle has been interrupted by pressing the START/RESET keypad; the dishwasher will automatically drain out the water and the light will quit flashing.

First step from the service manual

Wait for dishwasher to finish draining automatically.

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 START/RESET flashing.

  • 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 START/RESET flashing means on a GE dishwasher

The START/RESET flashing indicator on a GE dishwasher is not a fault code in the traditional sense. It is a status signal that tells you the active wash cycle has been interrupted because the START/RESET keypad was pressed mid-cycle. When this happens, the control board recognizes that the cycle cannot simply stop with water sitting in the tub, so it initiates an automatic drain sequence to pump out any standing water before fully shutting down.

During the drain sequence, the drain pump runs to evacuate water from the sump area at the bottom of the dishwasher. The START/RESET light will continue to flash throughout this process, which typically takes around 90 seconds to 2 minutes to complete. Once the drain cycle finishes, the control board resets to a ready state and the flashing light will turn off on its own. No technician intervention is needed for this sequence to complete.

This behavior is by design and serves a practical purpose: it prevents water from remaining in the tub where it could sit stagnant, cause odors, or interfere with a fresh cycle. The only scenario where this becomes a diagnostic concern is if the light continues to flash well beyond the expected drain window, which could point to a drain pump issue, a blocked drain path, or a control board problem that is preventing the drain cycle from completing and resetting properly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of START/RESET flashing

  1. 01

    Accidental or intentional mid-cycle cancellation

    Wiring / connection

    The most common trigger is simply pressing START/RESET during an active wash cycle. This immediately interrupts the cycle and queues the automatic drain sequence.

  2. 02

    Door opened mid-cycle followed by reset

    Wiring / connection

    Opening the dishwasher door mid-cycle pauses operation. If START/RESET is then pressed instead of resuming, the drain sequence will activate and the light will flash.

  3. 03

    Power interruption recovery

    Wiring / connection

    A brief power flicker or outage can cause the control board to lose its cycle position. When power returns, the board may trigger the drain and reset sequence, causing the START/RESET light to flash.

  4. 04

    Drain pump or drain path obstruction

    Part replacement

    If the flashing continues well beyond 2 minutes, a clogged drain filter, blocked drain hose, or faulty drain pump may be preventing the automatic drain cycle from completing. Check the filter basket and drain hose for debris.

  5. 05

    Control board not completing reset sequence

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the control board may fail to properly conclude the drain-and-reset routine, leaving the light flashing indefinitely. This points to a control board issue rather than a user or drain system problem.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about START/RESET flashing

What does START/RESET flashing mean on a GE dishwasher?
The flashing START/RESET light means the dishwasher cycle was interrupted by pressing the START/RESET keypad. The control board has triggered an automatic drain sequence to pump out any water remaining in the tub. The light will stop flashing on its own once draining is complete, which typically takes about 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
How do I fix the flashing START/RESET light on my GE dishwasher?
In most cases, no fix is needed. Simply wait for the dishwasher to finish its automatic drain cycle and the light will stop flashing on its own. If the light continues to flash for more than a few minutes, check the drain filter for debris, inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages, and verify the drain pump is functioning.
Is it safe to open the dishwasher while the START/RESET light is flashing?
It is generally safe to open the door while the drain sequence is running, but it is better to wait until the light stops flashing and the drain cycle finishes. Opening the door early will not harm the appliance, but the drain sequence may need to be restarted.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the flashing START/RESET light?
The flashing light is itself part of the reset process and will clear automatically once the drain cycle completes. If you want to force a full reset, you can turn off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds and then restore it, but under normal conditions the light clears without any manual reset.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher that keeps flashing START/RESET?
If the issue is simply a mid-cycle cancellation, there is no repair cost. If the flashing persists due to a faulty drain pump, replacement pump parts typically range from $30 to $80 in parts, with labor adding $100 to $200 if a technician is needed. A control board replacement, if required, can range from $150 to $350 in parts depending on the model.

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