Hotpoint Dishwasher Start Button Flashing 5 Times: Fix It Fast

Are you staring at your Hotpoint dishwasher with the start button flashing five times? It can be frustrating when your dishwasher won’t work, but the good news is, it usually has a simple fix. In this article, we will explain exactly why this happens and how you can fix it quickly.

Check the Door Lock Mechanism

One common reason the start button flashes five times is a faulty door lock. The dishwasher will not start if the door isn’t properly closed or the lock is not working. First, open and close the door firmly. Listen for a click that signals the door has locked.

If the click is missing, the latch may be broken. Sometimes, debris or food particles block the latch. Clean the area carefully with a soft cloth. You can also use a small brush to remove dirt. This simple cleaning often fixes the issue.

After cleaning, try to start the dishwasher again. If the light still flashes, the door lock switch might be defective. Testing the switch with a multimeter can confirm this. Replacing the switch is easy and affordable.

Some Hotpoint models have electronic locks. In these models, you may need to reset the dishwasher after cleaning or replacing the lock. Press the power button for a few seconds and unplug the machine. Wait a few minutes and plug it back in to reset the electronics.

Check if the door clicks when closing.
Clean the latch area carefully.
Test the door lock switch if cleaning does not help.
Replace the switch if it is faulty.
Reset the dishwasher after fixing the lock.

Inspect the Water Supply

A second common reason for flashing lights is a water supply issue. Your dishwasher needs enough water to run the cycle properly. First, check if the water tap is fully open. Sometimes, it might be partially closed.

Next, look at the inlet hose for kinks or blockages. A bent or blocked hose can prevent water from reaching the dishwasher. Remove the hose and inspect it for dirt or buildup. Cleaning the hose can restore proper water flow.

The water inlet valve controls the water entry. If this valve is faulty, the dishwasher may show error lights. You can test the valve with a multimeter for electrical continuity. Replacing a broken valve is straightforward.

Also, ensure the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher is clean. A clogged filter can stop water from circulating, causing the start button to flash. Cleaning the filter regularly helps prevent this problem.

Make sure the water tap is open.
Check the hose for blockages or bends.
Inspect the water inlet valve for faults.
Clean the bottom filter.
Replace the valve if it is defective.

Examine the Drainage System

If your dishwasher has trouble draining, the start button may flash five times. Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages first. Even a small clog can cause problems. Remove the hose and clear any debris.

The drain pump can also fail. Listen for unusual sounds when the dishwasher tries to drain. If the pump is noisy or not working, it may need replacement. A broken pump stops water from leaving the dishwasher.

Sometimes, food or small objects can block the drain area. Check the dishwasher filter and sump carefully. Remove anything that can block water flow. This is a common cause of flashing lights and error codes.

After cleaning, run a short cycle to check if the problem is solved. Make sure the dishwasher drains completely without leaving water inside. Proper drainage ensures the machine works safely and efficiently.

Inspect the drain hose for blockages.
Check the drain pump for proper function.
Clean the filter and sump area.
Remove any trapped food or debris.
Test a short cycle to ensure drainage works.

Reset the Dishwasher Electronics

Sometimes the flashing button is due to a simple electronic error. Hotpoint dishwashers have safety features that need resetting. First, turn off the dishwasher and unplug it. Wait for five minutes to allow the electronics to reset.

After unplugging, press the start button for a few seconds to release any stored power. Plug the machine back in and try starting it again. This can clear minor glitches in the control board.

If your dishwasher has a digital display, check for error codes. The codes give clues about what is wrong. Follow the user manual to reset the specific error. Resetting often solves problems without replacing parts.

In some cases, a software update from a technician may be required. But usually, unplugging and performing a manual reset fixes the flashing start button. Always handle electronics with care to avoid damage.

Unplug the dishwasher and wait five minutes.
Press the start button to release stored power.
Plug it back in and try starting.
Check digital display error codes.
Perform manual reset or follow the manual instructions.

Inspect the Control Panel

A faulty control panel can make the start button flash repeatedly. Moisture, dust, or electrical failure can damage the panel. Start by cleaning the buttons and the surrounding area. Use a soft, dry cloth.

If cleaning does not work, test the buttons individually. Sometimes one button sticks and causes the entire panel to malfunction. A multimeter can test electrical continuity of the panel.

In older dishwashers, a complete control board replacement may be needed. This part can be ordered online or from a local dealer. Replacing it is straightforward with basic tools. Make sure the power is off before attempting any replacement.

After replacement, test the dishwasher for normal operation. The start button should no longer flash, and the dishwasher should run a full cycle. Regular maintenance can prevent future control panel issues.

Clean the control panel thoroughly.
Test buttons for sticking or malfunction.
Check electrical continuity.
Replace control board if necessary.
Test the machine after replacement.

Check for Error Codes and Maintenance

Finally, ongoing maintenance can prevent the flashing start button. Hotpoint dishwashers show error codes when something is wrong. These codes guide you to the exact problem. Refer to the user manual for each code’s meaning.

Regular cleaning helps keep your dishwasher healthy. Clean filters, spray arms, and door seals every month. This prevents blockages and keeps water flow steady. Check hoses and connections for leaks.

Sometimes, small issues like worn seals or minor leaks trigger the start button to flash. Replacing worn parts early can save time and money. Regular inspection ensures your dishwasher works efficiently.

Preventive maintenance also includes running empty cycles with dishwasher cleaner. This removes grease and buildup inside. Over time, this keeps the machine running smoothly without errors.

Watch for error codes and follow the manual.
Clean filters, spray arms, and door seals.
Inspect hoses and connections.
Replace worn parts promptly.
Run empty cycles with dishwasher cleaner.

Final Thoughts

A Hotpoint dishwasher with a start button flashing five times usually signals a simple problem. Checking the door lock, water supply, drainage, electronics, control panel, and doing maintenance often fixes it. Following these steps is easy and saves money. Regular care prevents future flashing issues. You can get your dishwasher running smoothly again quickly and safely.

Check Door Lock	Inspect Water Supply	Examine Drainage	Reset Electronics	Inspect Control Panel	Maintain & Clean
Close door firmly	Open water tap fully	Clear drain hose	Unplug and wait	Clean panel buttons	Watch error codes
Listen for click	Check inlet hose	Check drain pump	Press start button	Test button function	Clean filters
Clean latch area	Inspect valve	Clean filter & sump	Plug in and start	Replace panel if needed	Inspect hoses
Test switch if needed	Replace valve if faulty	Remove debris	Check error codes	Test dishwasher	Replace worn parts
Reset electronics	Ensure flow	Test short cycle	Manual reset if needed	Test full cycle	Run cleaning cycles

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for the start button to flash five times?

Yes, flashing five times usually indicates a specific error. It often relates to door lock, water supply, or drainage issues. Hotpoint dishwashers use flashing lights to signal problems. Observing the pattern helps identify the cause. Following the manual or these steps can fix it. Most of the time, it’s not serious and can be fixed at home.

Can a clogged filter cause the start button to flash five times?

Absolutely. A clogged filter blocks water flow and affects the dishwasher cycle. This often triggers the flashing start button. Cleaning the filter regularly keeps water flowing properly. Remove food debris and rinse the filter under running water. This simple step can restore normal operation.

Do I need a technician to fix a flashing start button?

Not always. Many issues are simple and can be fixed at home. Checking the door lock, water supply, drainage, and control panel often solves the problem. If these steps do not work, a technician may be needed. Replacing parts like switches or control boards may require professional help.

Is it safe to unplug the dishwasher to reset it?

Yes, unplugging is safe and often solves minor electronic errors. Wait at least five minutes to allow the system to reset. Press the start button to release any stored power. Plug the machine back in and test. Always handle electronics with care.

Can water supply issues trigger the start button flashing?

Yes, insufficient or blocked water supply can cause the flashing. Check that the tap is fully open and the inlet hose is not bent or blocked. Inspect the water inlet valve for faults. Proper water flow ensures the dishwasher starts correctly.

Do I need to clean the drain hose regularly?

Yes, cleaning the drain hose prevents blockages. A clogged hose can stop drainage and trigger the start button to flash. Remove the hose occasionally and clear debris. Regular inspection keeps the machine running smoothly.

Is replacing the control panel expensive?

It can vary by model but is usually affordable. Older dishwashers may require a full control board replacement. Make sure to buy the correct part for your model. Replacing it yourself is possible with basic tools and safety precautions.

Can maintenance prevent the start button from flashing?

Definitely. Regular maintenance prevents errors and keeps the dishwasher running efficiently. Clean filters, spray arms, door seals, and hoses. Run empty cleaning cycles to remove buildup. Preventive care reduces flashing errors and extends machine life.