KitchenAid Dishwasher Sanitize Light Flashing: sanitization temperature not met

What Sanitize Light Flashing means

On KitchenAid built-in dishwashers with the F#E# control, such as the KDTE204KPS and KDPM604KPS, a flashing Sani light means the sanitization temperature requirements were not met. The dishes are not sanitized. Hot water should be at least 120 degrees F (49 degrees C). An open door or a power interruption during the cycle can also cause it. Older KUDE60HX models show the same signal.

Common causes of Sanitize Light Flashing

Incoming hot water was below 120 degrees F (49 degrees C).
The door was opened during the cycle.
Power was interrupted partway through.

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Run the kitchen faucet until the water is hot, then start the dishwasher. 2. Check your water heater setting; 120 degrees F (49 degrees C) is the target. 3. Avoid opening the door during the cycle. 4. Rerun the Sani cycle. 5. If the light still flashes with hot water and no interruptions, call us.

! Why to stop there

Water temperature is usually the cause and is a setting, not a repair.
If the temperature is right, heating or sensing deserves a look.
Written estimate first, with a 30-day guarantee on the work.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Sanitize Light FlashingSanitize Light Flashing questions

Why is the Sani light flashing?

The cycle did not reach the sanitization temperature, so the dishes are not sanitized. Cool incoming water, an open door or a power loss are the usual reasons.

What temperature do I need?

Hot water of at least 120 degrees F (49 degrees C) at the dishwasher. Check your water heater setting and run the faucet hot before starting.

Do I need a repair?

Only if the light keeps flashing with hot water and an uninterrupted cycle. Then we test the heating, quote in writing and warrant our work for 30 days.