A plain-language snapshot of Sanitized light blinks at end of cycle for Kenmore Dishwasher — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Daniel Reeves Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeSanitized light blinks at end of cycle
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
On Kenmore and Kenmore Elite 665 dishwashers the Sanitized light blinking at cycle end means sanitation water temperature was not confirmed.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so Sanitized light blinks at end of cycle may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What thiscode means
The control could not confirm the sanitation water temperature was achieved.
The blink pattern
Signal: Sanitized light blinks when the cycle ends (a light pattern, not a display code)
Meaning: the control could not confirm the sanitation water temperature was achieved
Models: Kenmore and Kenmore Elite 665 dishwashers
Temperature limits
Sanitation needs the element to run for 10 minutes and the water to hit 150 degrees. If the water coming in is under 120 degrees, the element may fall short of 150. If it is over 150 degrees, the element may switch off before the 10 minutes are up. Both situations can produce the blink.
Next steps from the manual
Begin with the incoming water temperature. When that is fine, examine the heating element. A damaged element, or one that fails to heat, gets replaced.
Compare with
Look at HE for a heating failure and tE for a thermistor failure.
Dishwasher repair in Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego
Our Kenmore dishwasher repair service covers the Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas. Dial (844) 747-3641 and describe the blinking light, the model number and the water temperature check.
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Get started
Seeing this code onyour Kenmore appliance?
Book a specialist Kenmore service visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair. Experienced technicians, clear diagnostics, and workmanship coverage on completed repairs.
