Dishwasher - Explanation of Cycle Indicator Lights

There are various designs or styles of cycle indicator lights on a Dishwasher. All current Dishwasher models use electronic controls with buttons or touch pads. This article provides information about current and previous types of cycle indicators used over the years.

Understanding the Cycle Indicator Lights on a Dishwasher

Generally speaking, electronic control models have light emitting diode (LED) indicators that take extremely small amounts of electricity to operate. The lights go off after a period of time if the Dishwasher is not started. Pushing any button or opening and closing the door will re-illuminate the lights. If the Dishwasher was started, the lights will remain on until the Dishwasher door is opened at the end of the cycle.

• The lights on timer models (a turn-to-start dial) are neon lights. These take extremely small amounts of current to operate and are on whenever the Dishwasher door is latched. As soon as the door is unlatched, the lights will go out.

• On older models, indicators above cycle selection pads are flags (colored plastic indicators), not lights. These indicators remain visible as long as the feature is selected, but do not use any electricity to remain on.

• The following video explains the colored flag cycle indicators on a Dishwasher:

Video - Dishwasher Lights Always On

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It is best to refer to the Owner's Manual for the specific model you own since information about light operation and features are model specific.

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