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Error code · Dishwasher

Older Whirlpool Built-in Dishwasher, Sanitize Light Flashing: Temperature Missed

Older Whirlpool built-in dishwashers, including the WDT750SAHZ, flash the Sanitize light when the cycle did not reach the sanitizing temperature. It is a plain indication that the dishes were not sanitized, not a sign the machine…

Low risk · DIY check OK
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Code
Sanitize Light Flashing
Appliance
Dishwasher
Brand
Whirlpool
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What Sanitize Light Flashing means

Older Whirlpool built-in dishwashers, including the WDT750SAHZ, flash the Sanitize light when the cycle did not reach the sanitizing temperature. It is a plain indication that the dishes were not sanitized, not a sign the machine has stopped working. These older units are still in many homes, and we repair them. A common cause is household hot water that is not hot enough when the cycle begins, so check the tap first.

Common causes of Sanitize Light Flashing

  • Household hot water below the minimum when the cycle starts
  • Long pipe run delaying hot water to the dishwasher
  • Heater or temperature sensing in the dishwasher
  • Control reading cleared only by resetting
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Let the hot water run about 30 seconds at the closest faucet, and confirm it reaches at least 120 degrees F (49 degrees C), the minimum named in the owner's manual. 2. Reset the control by disconnecting power for one minute: unplug the dishwasher, or turn off its breaker if hard-wired. 3. Restore power and run a sanitize cycle. 4. If the light flashes again, call us.

! Why to stop there
  • Tap temperature is only part of the picture, because the dishwasher heats water itself too
  • An aging heater or sensor can fall just short of sanitizing temperature without any other sign
  • We tell you plainly when repair is not worth it on an older unit, and quote in writing first
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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Other Dishwasher codes

F8E4Whirlpool Dishwasher F8E4 Error on a New Install: Fill and Float Checks F8E5Whirlpool Dishwasher Code F8E5: Fill Valve Stuck Open, Act Now F9E1Whirlpool Built-In Dishwasher F9E1 Means Water Is Draining Too Slowly F9E2Whirlpool Dishwasher Code F9E2: Drain Motor Circuit Check FAE4Whirlpool Dishwasher FAE4 or F10E4 Points to the Diverter Valve FAE5Whirlpool Dishwasher FAE5 or F10E5: A Diverter Leak H2OWhirlpool Dishwasher H2O on the Display: No Water Detected Rinse Only LightWhirlpool Portable Dishwasher with the Rinse Only Light Flashing: Stuck Keys
Sanitize Light FlashingSanitize Light Flashing questions
Why does the Sanitize light flash after a cycle?

It flashes when the dishwasher detects that the sanitizing temperature was not reached. Dishes from that cycle were not sanitized, so rewash them once the water is hot.

How hot must the household water be?

At least 120 degrees F (49 degrees C), measured by running the hot tap about 30 seconds at the nearest faucet. Your water heater setting may be worth reviewing.

Is an older dishwasher worth fixing for this?

Often yes, since a temperature problem is frequently modest. We give an honest opinion and a written price, and we say so if replacement is the better choice.

Book a visit

Still unsure about Sanitize Light Flashing?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 589-6107