KitchenAid dishwasher repair and error codes

KitchenAid dishwasher error codes

The table uses KitchenAid's product-help site, which links to service in the United States and Canada. Where KitchenAid publishes a flash pattern for a code, we give both the pattern and the display code. KitchenAid says exact codes vary by model, so check your owner's manual or control guide before acting. KitchenAid and Whirlpool are both Whirlpool Corporation brands, and KitchenAid's code pages use the same codes and wording as Whirlpool's; our Whirlpool dishwasher page has the Whirlpool side.

How to count the flashes. KitchenAid says a flashing Clean light usually means an error code. Count the first burst of flashes (the F number), then a short pause of about 1 to 2 seconds, then the second burst (the E number), then a longer pause of about 5 seconds before it repeats. Power reset: unplug the dishwasher for 30 seconds, or switch off its breaker for 30 seconds if it is hard-wired.

A code tells you what the control board measured, not which part failed. Tell us the code when you book; it shortens the diagnosis. How to read any error code →

What's specific to KitchenAid dishwashers

The filter system. KitchenAid describes two parts: an upper filter assembly that keeps oversized items and very fine particles out of the pump, and a lower filter that stops food being recirculated onto the dishes. To clean them, turn the upper assembly a quarter turn counterclockwise and lift it out, then take the lower filter by its circular opening, lift it slightly and pull it forward. Rinse under running water, using a soft brush for hard-water deposits and never a wire brush or scouring pad. KitchenAid suggests cleaning about once a month, or every two weeks if you run the dishwasher daily, and warns not to run it without the filters in place: if the upper assembly turns freely, it is not locked.

Drain loop and air gap. KitchenAid says the drain hose loop should be at least 20 in (about 51 cm) above the floor, and that an air gap should be used if it is lower. The high point stops dirty water from the sink flowing back into the dishwasher and prevents siphoning. KitchenAid's own way of checking involves pulling the dishwasher out with the power off; we do that at the visit. Dishwasher installation covers new hookups.

Hot water. KitchenAid says its dishwashers perform best with incoming water at 120°F (49°C). Cooler water can leave soil and cloudy glasses, and on models with an internal heater it lengthens the cycle while the dishwasher heats the water. KitchenAid's owner steps: set the water heater to at least 120°F, make sure the dishwasher is connected to the hot water line with its valve fully open, and run the kitchen tap until hot before you start. A failed heating element or temperature sensor, KitchenAid notes, can also stop the water reaching temperature; that is a technician diagnosis.

Drying and the automatic door. On models with the automatic door-open feature, KitchenAid says the door opens about 4 in (10 cm) after the dry cycle ends to release vapour. If it does not open, check that the Extended Dry option was selected and that the feature has not been switched off in the settings sub-menu, reached by holding Hi Temp for 5 seconds; o1 means on and o0 off. KitchenAid also says plastics dry poorly because droplets cling to them, and that rinse aid helps water drain off the dishes.

What KitchenAid says is for a technician. KitchenAid's not-draining guide says to switch the power off at the breaker before working on a dishwasher that holds water, and not to use drain-opening chemicals in it. It links a steady hum with no water moving to a jammed pump impeller, grinding to hard debris such as glass in the pump, and no pump sound at all to an electrical or control issue. Those are for the visit.

Recalls and notices

We found no Health Canada recall of KitchenAid dishwashers when this page was reviewed. On 25 September 2026 we searched the Government of Canada Recalls and safety alerts database, including its open-data export current to 24 September 2026. KitchenAid products do appear there, but for other appliances: a February 2018 Whirlpool Corporation recall of certain KitchenAid 1.7 L electric kettles for a burn hazard (recall notice), and an August 2019 recall of certain Whirlpool, KitchenAid and JennAir electric radiant cooktops for a fire hazard (recall notice). Neither covers dishwashers.

A recall is a formal safety action published by Health Canada with the manufacturer. A service bulletin is a manufacturer's repair note for technicians, and a complaint is an owner's report; neither is a recall. If you have a safety concern about your dishwasher, search recalls-rappels.canada.ca with its model number.

When to book

Book the same day for 8 pause 4 or 8 pause 5, or for any water on the floor, and keep the water supply to the dishwasher off until the visit. For 9 pause 1, 8 pause 1 and a flashing Sani light, work through KitchenAid's checks first and book if the pattern returns. For control, heating, sensor, motor and diverter codes, one 30-second power reset is the owner's step; book if it comes back. Tell us the flash count or display code and the model number. The diagnostic is $89 plus tax, waived when you go ahead with the repair, with a written finding and quote before any work.