KitchenAid Dishwasher 6-2 Error: Overflow Float Triggered
What Does KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code 6-2 Mean? The 6-2 blink code on a KitchenAid dishwasher — six blinks of the Clean light, a pause, then two blinks — means the overflow float switch has been triggered. KitchenAid dishwashers include a small plastic float in the bottom of the tub that rises with the water […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. An overfilling dishwasher can leak onto the floor and damage the cabinet, flooring, and sub-floor beneath. Do not attempt to run the dishwasher again until the cause of the overfill is identified and corrected.
Can I reset the code?
No. A breaker reset alone will not clear the 6-2 fault if standing water remains above the float trigger point. The tub must be drained and the float verified as free before a reset will allow normal operation.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Water is visible leaking from under the dishwasher door, The float appears free but the overfill fault returns immediately.
Symptoms You May Notice
Standing water visible in the bottom of the tub after the fault
Opening the door after the 6-2 code appears reveals water that exceeds the normal wash level and may be close to the door seal.
Clean light blinks six times, pauses, then twice
The 6-2 blink pattern repeats on the Clean indicator and the cycle cannot be restarted until the standing water is removed.
Water inlet valve continues to hum after the cycle has stopped
In rare cases a stuck-open inlet valve allows water to keep entering the tub even after the control has sent a shutoff signal.
Possible Causes
Stuck or restricted overflow float
The plastic float in the front corner of the tub is stuck in the down position (indicating normal level) while water is actually high because food or debris is jammed under it.
DIY PossibleStuck-open water inlet valve
The inlet valve solenoid has failed in the open position, allowing the water supply to continuously enter the tub even when the control sends a close signal.
Requires ProfessionalFaulty float switch contact
The microswitch the float activates has failed in the triggered position, reporting overfill even when the water level is normal.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Remove standing water and inspect the float
Open the door and use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to remove excess water from the tub. With the water removed, locate the plastic dome float (usually front-left of the tub) and try lifting it by hand — it should move freely up and down.
Food chunks, broken glass, or a utensil falling forward can pin the float in the down position. Clearing the obstruction often resolves the fault immediately.
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2
Close the water supply valve and run a drain cycle
Shut the water supply valve under the sink. Then press and hold Cancel or reset the breaker and let the dishwasher complete a drain cycle to evacuate remaining water.
Closing the supply valve prevents more water from entering if the inlet valve is stuck open. Once the tub is empty, restore the supply and test a short cycle.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Float moves freely but fault persists — float switch has failed
- Inlet valve does not close even after power is removed from the solenoid terminal
- Repeated overfill events have caused visible water damage to the cabinet floor
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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