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Samsung Dishwasher Express 60 Blinking? Fix It Fast (6 Steps)
You just finished a big dinner and loaded your Samsung dishwasher to get some help with the cleaning. But then you notice the Express 60 light blinking! That can feel frustrating and confusing. The good news is: the blinking light usually means something simple.
In most cases, it just needs a little reset, a quick clean-up, or checking for a problem with water or temperature. In this article, you will learn the exact steps to stop the Express 60 light from blinking and get your dishwasher working again.
Check for Error Codes and Understand What Express 60 Means
When you see the Express 60 light blinking on your Samsung dishwasher, it usually means your machine is trying to tell you something. The Express 60 cycle is a quick wash that usually lasts around 60 minutes. It’s meant for lightly soiled dishes. So when it blinks, it could be a signal that the cycle has stopped or cannot begin.
The first thing you should do is check for any error codes on the display. Some Samsung models show these codes using letters and numbers like “4E” or “HE.” If you see one, check your user manual or look it up online for the meaning. These codes give you a clear idea of what’s going wrong inside.
Now, let’s talk about why the Express 60 light blinks. Most common reasons include:
- Water is not filling properly
- Water is not draining
- The door is not shut properly
- Heater is not working
- Too much soap or wrong soap
- Blocked filters or spray arms
- The dishwasher needs a reset
You might feel nervous seeing the blinking light, but the solution is often very easy. Think of it like a warning light in your car. It’s not always serious, but it needs your attention.
Sometimes, it’s just a small sensor mistake or leftover water from a past cycle. You can press the Start or Reset button for 3–5 seconds. This will often stop the blinking and restart the system.
If it still blinks, unplug the dishwasher for 1 minute and plug it back in. This resets the machine and can solve small electronic problems.
- Express 60 blinking is a warning sign
- Check for error codes
- Could be due to water issues, soap, door, or filter
- Try to reset using Start button or unplug for 1 minute
Make Sure the Dishwasher Door Is Fully Closed
Sometimes, the blinking Express 60 light means the dishwasher thinks the door is open. Even if you shut it, if the latch is not locked completely, the dishwasher won’t start. You might hear a small click when the door is locked right. If that click doesn’t happen, it could be the problem.
Check for food, utensils, or racks blocking the door. Sometimes a long spoon or pan handle sticks out and stops the door from closing all the way. Remove anything that might be in the way.
Also, look at the rubber seal around the door. If it is dirty or something is stuck there, clean it gently with warm water and a soft cloth. The seal helps the door close tightly.
Now take a look at the latch itself. If it’s loose or wobbly, the dishwasher might not sense the door as fully closed. Gently press the door in and see if the blinking stops. If it does, the latch could be weak and might need repair or replacement.
If your dishwasher is new, check if the shipping bolts or tape have been removed. Some new models come with extra packing around the door that needs to be taken off before using.
This problem is often simple to fix with just a little cleaning or pressing the door a bit more.
- Make sure the door is fully shut
- Look for utensils blocking the door
- Clean the door seal
- Check for a loose latch
- Remove any shipping tape if the dishwasher is new
Clean the Filters and Spray Arms for Better Water Flow
Water needs to move freely inside the dishwasher. If the filters or spray arms are blocked, the machine may not work right. That can make the Express 60 light blink because the dishwasher thinks it can’t wash properly.
Open the bottom rack and pull it out. You’ll see a filter under the bottom spray arm. Turn the filter counterclockwise and pull it out. It may look dirty or full of food pieces. Rinse it under warm water and scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge.
Next, take out the spray arms. Most just pull out or snap off. Check for holes that may be blocked with food, seeds, or soap bits. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear the holes. Rinse with water to remove anything stuck inside.
When spray arms and filters are clean, water moves better and the dishwasher works faster and stronger. This will stop the blinking if the problem was caused by weak water flow.
Also, check under the filter for any small glass or plastic pieces. These can block the drain or sensor, which could cause blinking too.
Cleaning the inside parts once a month helps your dishwasher run longer and better.
- Remove and clean the bottom filter
- Clean the spray arms with a toothpick
- Check under the filter for small objects
- Rinse everything with warm water
- Clean inside parts monthly
Fix Any Water Supply or Drain Problems
One major reason for the blinking Express 60 light is water problems. If water can’t come in or can’t drain out, the dishwasher can’t run.
Start by checking the water inlet. Turn off the dishwasher and look under your sink. Make sure the water valve is open. If it’s closed, no water can reach the dishwasher. Also, check the hose connected to the dishwasher. Make sure it’s not bent or twisted.
If the dishwasher doesn’t fill with water, the machine may stop and start blinking. You might also hear it humming but not working.
Next, check the drain hose. This is usually behind the dishwasher or under the sink. If the hose is clogged or stuck, water won’t drain, and that could cause the blinking light. Run some water down the sink and see if it drains slowly. A clogged sink pipe can affect the dishwasher too.
Also, make sure the drain filter is clean. Even if the filter looks clean, small things can block water flow. Clean the filter and spray arms as described before.
If water stays at the bottom after a wash, you can try running a drain-only cycle. Some models allow you to hold the start or cancel button to begin draining. Check your manual or model details.
- Check if water valve is open
- Look for twisted or clogged hoses
- Clean the drain filter
- Make sure sink drain is not blocked
- Try a drain cycle to remove standing water
Reset the Dishwasher and Check the Control Panel
Sometimes your dishwasher just needs a little break. If it’s been overused or got confused during a cycle, resetting can help. Resetting also clears small errors and stops blinking lights.
Start by pressing and holding the Start or Cancel button for 3–5 seconds. On most Samsung dishwashers, this will cancel the current cycle and reset the system. You’ll hear a sound or the lights may turn off for a moment.
If that doesn’t work, unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet for about 1 minute. Then plug it back in. This hard reset can fix deeper control problems.
Also, look at the control panel. If buttons are sticky or unresponsive, clean around them with a soft damp cloth. Make sure your hands are dry when pressing buttons. Touch panels don’t work well with wet fingers.
If the control panel still acts funny, you may need to check the wiring inside or call a technician. But in many cases, a reset is enough to fix the blinking Express 60 light.
- Press and hold Start/Cancel for 3–5 seconds
- Unplug the machine for 1 minute
- Clean the control panel gently
- Dry your hands before pressing buttons
- Call support if reset does not work
Use the Right Detergent and Don’t Overload the Dishwasher
Another common reason the Express 60 light blinks is because of too much soap or the wrong kind. Using regular dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent causes foam that can block sensors. The dishwasher thinks there is a problem and starts blinking.
Always use only dishwasher-safe detergent. If you accidentally use the wrong soap, run a rinse cycle or drain cycle. If there’s too much foam, open the door and let it sit for a while until the foam goes down. You can also add a bit of vinegar and run a rinse cycle to break down the soap.
Overloading the dishwasher can also lead to trouble. If dishes are stacked too tightly, water and soap won’t reach every surface. This makes the dishwasher think it’s not working right. It may stop or show blinking lights.
Leave space between plates and bowls. Make sure nothing blocks the spray arms from spinning. Keep big items on the sides and avoid stacking things.
Using too much detergent can also confuse the sensors. Try using less and see if the blinking stops.
- Use only dishwasher detergent
- Never use regular dish soap
- Avoid overloading the racks
- Let spray arms spin freely
- Use less soap if needed
Final Thoughts
Seeing your Samsung dishwasher’s Express 60 light blinking can feel stressful, especially after a long day. But most of the time, it’s just a simple fix. Whether it’s cleaning a filter, checking the door, or doing a reset, these steps will help you fix the problem fast. Always keep your dishwasher clean and use it the right way. If the blinking comes back often, it might be time to call for help. But now, you have the confidence to try easy solutions first.
Problem | Cause | Solution | Tools Needed | Time to Fix |
---|---|---|---|---|
Blinking Express 60 Light | General warning | Reset or unplug | None | 1-2 mins |
Door Not Closed Properly | Blocked latch or items in the way | Check latch, remove items, clean seal | Cloth | 5 mins |
Water Not Filling | Closed valve or kinked hose | Open valve, straighten hose | None | 5-10 mins |
Water Not Draining | Clogged hose or filter | Clean filter, check drain hose | Soft brush | 10-15 mins |
Dirty Filters | Food particles | Remove and wash filters | Brush or sponge | 10 mins |
Spray Arms Blocked | Food stuck inside | Remove and clean arms | Toothpick | 10 mins |
Too Much Soap | Wrong detergent used | Run rinse cycle, use less soap | Vinegar (optional) | 10-15 mins |
Control Panel Issues | Wet or dirty buttons | Clean panel, try a reset | Soft cloth | 5 mins |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it normal for the Express 60 light to blink during a cycle?
No, it’s not normal. The Express 60 light should stay solid when it’s running the cycle. If it starts blinking, it means there’s an issue like a water problem, a door that’s not shut, or something blocking the spray arms. It could also mean your dishwasher needs a reset. Always check for these small issues first before worrying about big problems.
Can the blinking Express 60 light go away on its own?
Sometimes yes, but not always. If it was a small error or power glitch, the blinking light may stop after a reset. Try turning off the dishwasher or unplugging it for 1 minute. If it still blinks, you need to check for things like water flow, door latch, filters, or control panel issues. It won’t fix itself if there’s a real blockage or broken part.
Do I need to call a repair technician right away?
No, not always. Try all the simple fixes first like resetting the machine, checking the water supply, and cleaning the filter. These steps solve the problem in most cases. But if the blinking doesn’t stop or comes back again and again, then it’s smart to call a technician to avoid damage or wasting energy.
Is it safe to keep running the dishwasher when the light blinks?
No, it’s better to stop it. The blinking light is a warning sign. Running it without fixing the problem could make it worse. It might overflow, not clean your dishes, or damage the motor. Always check and solve the problem first before starting a new cycle.
Can I reset the Samsung dishwasher more than once?
Yes, you can reset it more than once. Resetting helps clear small errors. Just press and hold the Start or Cancel button for 3–5 seconds or unplug it for 1 minute. If it keeps blinking after several resets, then it may need more checking or repair.
Do I need to clean the filter every time?
Not every time, but it’s good to clean the filter at least once a week or after heavy use. A dirty filter can cause the Express 60 light to blink because water can’t flow right. Cleaning it keeps your dishwasher running strong and helps avoid smells or clogs.
Is it okay to open the door during Express 60 cycle?
Yes, you can open it carefully. But be ready for hot steam and water. If you open the door and close it again, the dishwasher might pause or start blinking if the door doesn’t shut tight. Always make sure the latch clicks when closing the door again.
Can wrong detergent cause blinking?
Yes, it can. If you use regular dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent, it creates foam that blocks sensors and makes the machine stop working right. This can lead to blinking lights. Always use only dishwasher-safe soap and use the right amount.