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Kenmore Dishwasher Sanitized light blinks Error Code
Sanitize temperature not reached (665 models) on Kenmore dishwashers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore dishwasher codes
The cycle finished, but the control couldn't confirm sanitizing conditions. The heating element has to run for 10 minutes and the water has to reach 150°F (66°C). Supply water under 120°F (49°C) can stop it getting there, and water above 150°F (66°C) can make the heater shut off before the 10 minutes are up.
Compatible models
Kenmore and Kenmore Elite dishwashers whose model numbers begin 665 (Sears PartsDirect's 665 table).
Also shown as
From the Kenmore 665 table. The dishes are still washed; they just weren't confirmed as sanitized.
Difficulty
Most people can clear this one at home with simple checks.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore dishwasher codes.
How to fix Kenmore Sanitized light blinks
Check the incoming water temperature
Run the hot tap nearest the dishwasher for a minute and measure it. Aim for 120°F to 150°F (49°C to 66°C).
Run the tap before the cycle
Turn on the kitchen hot water until it's hot, then start the sanitize cycle so the first fill isn't cold.
Adjust the water heater
If your water is outside that range, change the water heater setting in small steps and test again.
When to call a technician
Water in the right range and still no sanitize confirmation usually means the heating element isn't working properly and needs replacing by a technician.
Parts linked to Sanitized light blinks
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the Sanitized light blinks code?
Kenmore and Kenmore Elite dishwashers whose model numbers begin 665 (Sears PartsDirect's 665 table).
Can I fix Kenmore Sanitized light blinks myself?
Usually, yes. Most Sanitized light blinks problems clear with simple checks you can do at home. Start with the first step above: check the incoming water temperature.
Other Kenmore dishwasher codes
- F1E1 / F1E2Main control board fault
- F2E1 / F2E2Stuck button or control panel not talking to the board
- F3E1 / F3E2Water temperature and soil sensor fault
- F5E1 / F5E2Door switch problem
- F6E1Dishwasher isn't filling
- F6E3Suds or air in the pump
- F6E4Overfill float switch open
- F7E1 / F7E2Heating element fault
- F8E1 / F8E2Slow drain or drain pump fault
- F9E1 / F9E2Diverter motor fault
- IENot filling (722 series)
- OENot draining (722 series)
- AE / E1Leak detected in the base (722 series)
- FEOverflow detected (722 series)
- LEWash pump motor locked (722 series)
- HEHeating failure (722 series)
- C1 / C2 / C3Drain problem (363 electronic models)
- C6 / C7Water too cold or temperature sensor fault (363 models)
- Clean light blinks 7 timesHeater circuit failure (665 models)
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.