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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code START/RESET flashing + CLEAN flashing

Cycle has been interrupted by pressing the START/RESET keypad; light will quit flashing after the dishwasher…

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

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

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What START/RESET flashing + CLEAN flashing means on a GE dishwasher

When both the START/RESET and CLEAN lights flash simultaneously on a GE dishwasher, it indicates that the current wash cycle has been manually interrupted by pressing the START/RESET keypad mid-cycle. This is not a fault or malfunction in the traditional sense. The dishwasher's control board recognizes that a cycle was running when the cancel command was received, and it responds by initiating an automatic drain sequence to remove standing water from the tub before the door can be safely opened.

The flashing lights serve as a status indicator during this drain-out process. The control board activates the drain pump and holds the door lock (on models with automatic locks) until the tub is sufficiently cleared of water. This prevents the user from opening the door to a tub full of hot water and detergent. The duration of this drain sequence typically runs for approximately 90 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the model. Once the water has been evacuated, both indicator lights will stop flashing and the cycle will be fully cancelled.

If the lights continue flashing beyond the expected drain window, it may point to a secondary issue such as a drain pump that is not completing its cycle, a clogged drain path, or a control board that has not properly registered the cancelled state. In those cases, the flashing transitions from a status indicator to a symptom worth investigating further.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of START/RESET flashing + CLEAN flashing

  1. 01

    User-initiated cancel during active cycle

    Wiring / connection

    The most common reason for this flashing combination is simply that the START/RESET button was pressed while a wash or rinse cycle was in progress. This is normal behavior and requires no repair.

  2. 02

    Accidental keypad press

    Wiring / connection

    The START/RESET key may have been bumped or pressed unintentionally, triggering the cancel sequence mid-cycle. Restarting a new cycle after the drain completes will resolve this.

  3. 03

    Drain pump not completing the drain sequence

    Wiring / connection

    If the lights continue flashing longer than 2 to 3 minutes, the drain pump may be failing to fully evacuate the tub. Check for blockages at the pump filter, drain hose, or house drain connection before suspecting a failed pump motor.

  4. 04

    Clogged drain path or filter

    Wiring / connection

    A blocked filter basket or kinked drain hose can prevent the auto-drain sequence from completing, causing the lights to flash indefinitely. Inspecting and clearing the filter and drain hose often resolves this.

  5. 05

    Control board not registering cancelled state

    Wiring / connection

    In less common cases, the main control board may not properly finalize the cancel command, leaving the indicator lights flashing. A hard reset by cutting power at the circuit breaker for 1 to 2 minutes can clear the board's state.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about START/RESET flashing + CLEAN flashing

What does START/RESET flashing + CLEAN flashing mean on a GE dishwasher?
This flashing combination means the wash cycle was cancelled by pressing the START/RESET keypad while the dishwasher was running. The dishwasher is now automatically draining the water out of the tub. The lights will stop flashing once the drain sequence is complete, which typically takes 1 to 2 minutes.
How do I fix the flashing START/RESET and CLEAN lights on my GE dishwasher?
In most cases, no fix is needed. Simply wait for the automatic drain cycle to finish, and the lights will stop flashing on their own. If the lights keep flashing for more than 3 minutes, check the drain filter and drain hose for blockages. If clearing the drain path does not help, cutting power at the circuit breaker for 1 to 2 minutes can reset the control board.
Is it safe to open the GE dishwasher door while these lights are flashing?
It is best to wait until the lights stop flashing before opening the door. During the drain sequence, there may still be hot water and detergent residue in the tub. Allowing the automatic drain to complete first prevents exposure to hot water and avoids water spilling onto the floor.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the flashing lights?
The dishwasher will clear the flashing lights on its own once the drain sequence finishes, so a manual reset is usually not necessary. If the lights remain flashing after several minutes, you can perform a hard reset by turning off the dishwasher's circuit breaker for 1 to 2 minutes and then restoring power. This forces the control board to clear its current state.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher that stays stuck with flashing lights?
If the issue is only a clogged filter or drain hose, the repair cost is minimal, typically just your time or a service call fee in the range of $75 to $150. If the drain pump motor has failed and needs replacement, parts and labor can range from $150 to $350 depending on the model and your location. Control board replacement, if needed, generally falls in the $200 to $400 range including parts and labor.

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