# Dyson Airwrap flashing light: what red and white lights mean Source: https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/blog/dyson-airwrap-flashing-light Published: 2026-10-12 Publisher: Blow and Barrel **In short:** A flashing light on a Dyson Airwrap is usually the tool telling you something is wrong with airflow or temperature, most often a blocked filter or overheating, and sometimes an internal fault. Unplug it, let it cool, clean the filter and try again. If a red light keeps flashing after that, stop using it and contact Dyson, as the pattern meaning differs by model. The lights on a Dyson Airwrap normally show the heat and airflow settings. When they start flashing, or a red light appears, the tool is signalling a problem. The exact meaning depends on the Airwrap generation, so always check the manual for your model. But a few causes account for most cases, and you can check them safely at home in a few minutes. This guide covers what to try, in order, and when it is time to stop and contact Dyson. ## What a flashing light usually means Dyson hair tools monitor air temperature many times a second. If the air gets too hot because airflow is restricted, or a sensor detects something outside normal limits, the tool may cut the heat or switch off and show a flashing light. White lights that flash are often linked to the filter needing a clean on Dyson tools. A red light that flashes or stays on is more often linked to a fault. That is the general pattern, not a rule for every model. Older Airwraps, the Airwrap i.d. and the Co-anda 2x use different displays and light layouts. Dyson's support pages and your manual give the exact meanings for your version. | What you see | Likely area | First check | | --- | --- | --- | | Lights flash then tool slows or cuts heat | Restricted airflow, overheating | Clean the filter, let it cool | | White lights flashing | Filter needs cleaning on many Dyson tools | Remove and clean the filter cage | | Red light flashing | Possible fault | Cool, clean, retry once; then contact Dyson | | No lights at all | Power supply | Socket, plug fuse, cable | Common Airwrap light patterns and first checks (confirm in your manual) ## Step 1: unplug, cool and check the filter Our full guide to [cleaning the Airwrap filter](https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/blog/how-to-clean-dyson-airwrap-filter) has more detail. A partly blocked filter is the single most common reason for flashing lights and cut-outs on air stylers, because these tools pull a lot of air through a small inlet. 1. Switch off and unplug the Airwrap. 2. Let it cool for at least 10 to 15 minutes. 3. Remove the filter cage at the bottom of the handle as shown in your manual. 4. Clean the filter with the cleaning brush supplied, or a soft dry brush, removing all lint and hair. 5. Wipe the cage with a dry cloth, refit it and make sure it clicks home. 6. Plug in and try again on a medium setting. ## Step 2: check attachments and airflow A barrel or brush that is not fully seated can disturb airflow, and some Airwraps use sensors to recognise attachments. Remove the attachment, check for hair wrapped around the base or debris in the air slots, and refit it firmly. Try a different attachment to see if the problem follows one head. Also check you are not blocking the inlet with your hand while you style. Holding the handle low over the filter area restricts the air coming in and can make the tool overheat. If you have long hair, check that no strands are being drawn into the inlet. ## Step 3: check the power supply If the lights flash briefly and the tool dies, or you get no lights at all, try a different wall socket without an extension lead. Look for damage along the cable, especially where it enters the handle; never use a tool with a cracked or kinked cable. A UK plug contains a fuse, and if your tool is completely dead the fuse may have blown. Our [Dyson not turning on guide](https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/blog/dyson-hair-dryer-not-turning-on) and [Airwrap not working guide](https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/blog/dyson-airwrap-not-working) cover power faults in detail. Note: Do not open the Airwrap's body or try to repair internal parts yourself. Only change a plug fuse if you are confident doing so, using the rating the manufacturer specifies. ## When to contact Dyson If a red light keeps flashing after cleaning and cooling, if the tool smells of burning, makes grinding noises or cuts out repeatedly within a minute or two, stop using it. Dyson hair care tools come with a manufacturer's guarantee when registered, and the support team can diagnose light patterns for your model. Have your serial number ready; it is usually on the handle or the box. If your Airwrap is out of guarantee and repairs do not make sense, our guides to [Airwrap models compared](https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/best/dyson-airwrap-models-compared) and [Airwrap alternatives](https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/best/best-dyson-airwrap-alternative) can help you choose a replacement. ## Frequently asked questions **Why does my Airwrap flash and then turn off?** Most often it is overheating caused by a blocked filter or restricted air inlet. Clean the filter, let the tool cool and try again. **Is a flashing white light serious?** On many Dyson tools it is linked to filter cleaning rather than a fault. Clean the filter first; if it continues, check your manual or contact Dyson. **Can I reset a Dyson Airwrap?** Unplugging, letting it cool fully and cleaning the filter acts as a simple reset for overheating cut-outs. There is no user reset for internal faults. **Does the warranty cover a flashing red light?** If it is a fault and the tool is within its guarantee period and registered, Dyson will usually assess it. Check the terms that came with your tool. ## Buying guides on this topic - https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/best/dyson-airwrap-models-compared - https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/best/best-dyson-airwrap-alternative - https://blowandbarrel.co.uk/best/best-airwrap-style-multi-stylers ## Sources - [Dyson support](https://www.dyson.co.uk/support)