Seeing flashing lights on your Speed Queen washer can be frustrating—especially when a cycle suddenly stops mid-wash. These blinking lights are not random. They are error indicators designed to help you diagnose problems such as water fill issues, lid lock errors, drainage problems, or over-sudsing.
In this guide, we’ll explain what each flashing light pattern means, the most common causes, and step-by-step fixes to get your washer running again.
What Do Flashing Lights on a Speed Queen Washer Mean?
Speed Queen washers use status lights to communicate specific problems. The number of flashes and which lights are blinking point directly to the issue.
Speed Queen Washer Flashing Light Error Codes
| Flashing Lights | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wash & Rinse flash 1 time | Trouble sensing water fill levels |
| Wash & Rinse flash 2 times | Water fill error / no water flow |
| Wash & Rinse solid on | Drain issue (water left in tub) |
| Wash & Rinse solid on | Overflow error |
| Rinse & Lid Lock flash 2 times | Lid lock error (lid not locked) |
| Rinse & Lid Lock flash 3 times | Lid open or lid unlocking error |
| Wash & Spin flash 2 times | Washer not reaching max spin speed |
| Wash & Rinse flash 3 times | Suds lock error (oversudsing) |
| All lights flashing | Control failure – service required |
Related: Speed Queen Washer Code Sr – Troubleshooting Guide
Most Common Issue: Wash & Rinse Lights Flashing Twice
By far, the most common Speed Queen washer light issue reported by owners is wash and rinse lights flashing two times.
What this Means
This indicates a water fill error. The washer did not reach the required water level within 30 minutes of starting the wash or rinse cycle.
Common Causes
- Low household water pressure
- Clogged inlet hose screens
- Kinked or blocked fill hoses
- Faulty water inlet valve
🔧 Most common fix: Dirty or clogged filter screens in the inlet hoses.
What to Check First (Before Replacing Parts)
Follow these simple steps before calling for service:
- Verify both hot and cold water valves are fully open
- Check water pressure at a nearby faucet
- Unplug the washer and turn off water supply
- Inspect fill hoses for kinks, twists, or damage
Relared: Speed Queen Washer Code L1 – Troubleshooting Guide
Clean the Inlet Screens (Most Important Step)
Speed Queen washers have multiple filter screens that can clog with sediment over time.
Where to Clean
- Screens inside the washer’s water inlet valves
- Screens at the faucet end of the fill hoses
- Inside the fill hoses themselves
How to Clean
- Remove hoses
- Rinse screens under running water
- Use mild detergent if needed
- Remove any debris from hoses
Once complete, reconnect everything, restore power, and restart the washer.
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Related: Speed Queen Washer Code Ed 29 – Troubleshooting Guide
If Lights Keep Flashing: Other Components to Check
If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, inspect these parts:
Float Switch
- Located near the bottom front right inside the washer
- Debris can prevent proper operation
Water Inlet Valve
- A faulty valve restricts water flow
- Requires replacement if defective
Water Level Sensor
- Sends fill data to the control board
- Can cause underfilling or overfilling if faulty
Related: Speed Queen Washer Code LD – Troubleshooting Guide
Alternative Reset Method (Owner-Reported Fix)
Some Speed Queen owners report success using this reset sequence:
- Turn washer off
- Set dial to Cotton/Linen 95
- Press and hold Prewash + Soak + Quick Wash + Stain for 10 seconds
- Turn washer off, then back on
⚠️ This method may not work on all models, but it’s worth trying.
Related: Speed Queen Washer Code E DL – Troubleshooting Guide
Avoid Unnecessary Repairs
Some technicians immediately replace the lid switch, but this part does not control water filling. Replacing it for a fill error is often unnecessary and costly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace inlet filter screens?
No. Cleaning is sufficient. Screens are reusable and rarely need replacement.
What else can cause a water fill error?
- Extremely low water pressure
- Malfunctioning inlet valve
- Faulty water level sensor
How do I get my washer to fill with more water?
Avoid overloading. Clothes should fill the tub no more than two-thirds full when dry.
How much water should a washer use?
- Top-load washers: Should not fill to the rim
- Front-load washers: Use significantly less water by design
How to Reset a Speed Queen Washer
Newer Models
- Press the Reset button on the control panel
Older Models
- Unplug washer
- Wait 5 minutes
- Plug back in to clear stored error codes
When to Call for Service
If all lights are flashing or errors persist after troubleshooting, the issue may involve the control board or internal wiring. Professional service is recommended.
