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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 the water and the light will quit flashing.

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What the START/RESET flashing error code actually means

Your GE dishwasher is flashing the START/RESET light because you pressed that button while a cycle was running, which paused the wash and told the machine to drain itself out. The dishwasher is automatically pumping out the water inside, and once it finishes draining, the light will stop flashing on its own. You do not need to do anything except wait a minute or two for the draining to finish.

Diagnostic procedure

The full START/RESET flashing procedure

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First diagnostic step
Wait for dishwasher to finish draining automatically.
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Most common causes of START/RESET flashing

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Accidental or intentional mid-cycle cancellation
  2. 2Door opened mid-cycle followed by reset
  3. 3Power interruption recovery
  4. 4Drain pump or drain path obstruction
  5. 5Control board not completing reset sequence

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Questions people ask 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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