Whirlpool Dishwasher Rinse Only Light Flashing — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as Rinse Only Blinking on some models.
A rapidly flashing Rinse Only light on a portable dishwasher means multiple keys are stuck — press each key one at a time to release them, or press Cancel.
What this code means
Whirlpool says the Rinse Only light flashes if multiple keys are stuck. Press each key, one at a time, to release the stuck keys, or press Cancel; a 30-second power reset follows if needed.
Whirlpool portable dishwashers.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Keys pressed together or held | Common | Yes — no tools |
| Residue or moisture on the keypad | Common | Yes — wipe and dry |
| Keypad fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Press each key once, one at a time.
- Or press Cancel.
- Wipe the keypad dry.
- Disconnect power for 30 seconds if it keeps flashing.
When to call a technician
- Flashing returns after a reset.
- A key stays physically depressed.
- Keys do not respond.
Typical professional repair cost: Free; keypad repair about $150–$300.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Rinse Only light flashing?
Multiple keys are stuck.
How do I clear it?
Press each key one at a time, or press Cancel.
Still flashing?
Disconnect power for 30 seconds.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 1-1 The control board detected one of its own relays stuck on — a long power-off clears the false alarms, while a genuinely welded relay means board-level repair.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 6-4 The overfill float switch — the machine's anti-flood backstop — is reading open, usually because the float is stuck or obstructed, occasionally because the inlet valve is dribbling water in when it should be shut.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 1-2 F1E2 means the dishwasher's main control has logged a communication error — disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset it, and book service if the code returns.
- Whirlpool Dishwasher 2-1 F2E1 points to a stuck key or a console error on the control panel; cycling power for 30 seconds is the fix to try, and a repeat means the console needs professional attention.
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