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Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting Header Image

We are not Philips Sonicare, nor are we affiliated with them.  

We are not a service centre and do not repair or replace toothbrushes.

Whilst we will offer what support we can, we cannot provide answers for all problems.

Contacting Sonicare directly will always be your best option.

Philips Sonicare contact number: 0207 949 0240

Monday – Friday: 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Saturday: 9 am to 6 pm
Closed on Sundays

Or use other contact options here.

Has your Philips Sonicare electric toothbrush stopped working?

Is it not behaving as you would expect?

Perhaps it is making more noise than normal.

Maybe it is not charging or the handle is beeping at you.

This article offers answers to the more commonly experienced issues with Sonicare electric toothbrushes.

All being well you will find the answer you need to resolve the issue.

If consulting this page or the user manual for your product does not resolve the issue, or you determine the brush requires repair or replacement, contact Philips Sonicare on 0207 949 0240.

Most products come with a 2 year warranty from Sonicare. Providing the fault falls under warranty terms, this should be resolved for you. In most cases this will be a free of charge repair or replacement.

Products outside of the warranty period will not be eligible for repair or replacement by Sonicare, but their customer support team may still be able to provide some assistance depending on the fault.

Sonicare toothbrush won’t stop blinking

  • Green blinking/flashing light.
    • The battery is in the process of charging.
    • The light will turn a solid green or go out when complete.
  • Amber or yellow blinking/flashing light.
    • The battery power is very low and requires charging.

Handle beeps

Sonicare handles use beeps as a way of notifying you of certain things going on.

Most typically:

  • 1 beep.
    • The process of activating or disabling the Easy-Start system has begun.
  • 3 beeps.
    • Normally accompanied by a flashing amber light, to highlight the battery is low and needs recharging.
  • 2 sets of 5 beeps.
    • The battery is empty and requires recharging.
  • 2 beeps when placed on charger.
    • This is to confirm that the charger has detected the handle and is beginning to charge the brush handle.
  • 1 beep and then 2 beeps.
    • The process of activating or disabling the brush head replacement reminder system has begun.
  • 1 beep, 2 beeps and then 3 beeps.
    • The process of activating or disabling the pressure sensor has begun.

Sonicare vibrates on charger

  • When placing a Sonicare toothbrush onto a charging stand that has already been connected to the power supply the handle will usually vibrate quickly once or twice as well as produce 2 beep sounds to confirm it is now charging on the stand.
  • This is normal behaviour.

Handle not turning on/does not work at all

  • The power button is stuck.
    • Toothpaste residue can build-up in the small gap around the power button. This can cause the button to get stuck and not function correctly.
    • Clean the power button and surrounding area with a damp cloth to ensure it is clean and free of debris.
  • Correct button used?
    • If the handle has 2 buttons, ensure the correct button is being pushed.
    • The mode button will not turn the toothbrush on, only the power button.
  • Is the toothbrush charged?
    • If the battery icon indicates that the battery is flat or low on power, it may require charging before it will turn on.
  • Any noise coming from the handle?
    • Turn on the toothbrush with a brush head attached and place the handle near your ear. If you hear a soft humming sound, it is likely that a fault has occurred that will require you to contact Sonicare for warranty support
  • Is the metal shaft in place?
    • With the brush head removed check if the metal shaft that extends from inside the handle. Is it loose or does it come out of the handle? If it does contact Sonicare for warranty support.
  • Has it been dropped?
    • If a toothbrush has been dropped or taken a very hard knock, it is possible that the battery connection inside the handle has been damaged.
    • The connection is usually a small solder connection between the +/- terminals of the battery that connects this to the main printed circuit board.
    • Cracked solder joints can, in theory, be repaired. However, the Sonicare handles are not designed to be opened up by users. Doing so will invalidate your warranty and may even render the brush broken for good.
  • Has it gotten wet?
    • Whilst the brush is designed to resist water prolonged exposure or submersion in water may lead to water ingress inside the handle.
    • Any physical damage to the handle will likely increase the likelihood of any water having impacted the internal electronics.
    • Water can cause corrosion, staining and crystal formation on the circuit board rendering the brush no longer functional.
  • Check for firmware updates
    • If you are using a smart toothbrush, note that it gets software updates when connected to the app. This happens through firmware updates. Some of these updates improve charging capability.
    • Follow these steps to check if you have the latest firmware installed on your toothbrush handle:
      • Update (or download) the latest version of the Philips Sonicare app from the App Store or Google Play.
      • Open the Philips Sonicare app
      • Tap on the menu icon in the top left corner
      • Go to ‘My Products’
      • Select your toothbrush
      • Select ‘Handle update’ to see if any updates are available
      • If you have updates available, please update the firmware of your handle by following the instructions from the Philips Sonicare app.

Handle does not hold charge/cuts out quickly after starting

  • Turn the toothbrush off and place on charge for a full 24 hours before attempting to turn it on again.
  • Turn the toothbrush on with a brush head attached. Slowly place the handle onto the charging stand (connected to power).
    • The handle should turn off, confirming it is performing normally.
    • If the handle stays on there is likely a problem with the charging stand rather than the handle.
    • If the handle turns off, but the issue continues, there is likely a fault with the handle that requires repair. Contact Sonicare.
Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues 1

Handle does not charge

  • Handle is not fully charged.
    • Place your handle on the charger. If you see the battery indicator light blinking or if you hear a beep it means it is charging.
    • Fully charge the Sonicare handle for 24 hours.
  • Not using the original charger.
    • Make sure that you use the original charger that came with your Sonicare toothbrush.
  • Socket is not working.
    • Try another appliance in the same power outlet/socket and see if that works. If that is also not working the issue might be with that socket. Try an alternative outlet.
  • Has it been dropped?
    • If a toothbrush has been dropped or taken a very hard knock, it is possible that the battery connection inside the handle has been damaged.
    • The connection is usually a small solder connection between the +/- terminals of the battery that connects this to the main printed circuit board.
    • Cracked solder joints can, in theory, be repaired. However, the Sonicare handles are not designed to be opened up by users. Doing so will invalidate your warranty and may even render the brush broken for good.
  • Has it gotten wet?
    • Whilst the brush is designed to resist water prolonged exposure or submersion in water may lead to water ingress inside the handle.
    • Any physical damage to the handle will likely increase the likelihood of any water having impacted the internal electronics.
    • Water can cause corrosion, staining and crystal formation on the circuit board rendering the brush no longer functional.

If the issue persists, contact Sonicare.

Charging stand/charging base does not work

  • Any lights on the handle?
    • When a brush handle is placed on the charging stand do any lights flash/blink?
    • If yes, this would suggest the charging stand is functioning correctly.
    • If no, leave the handle on the charger for at least 1 hour and see if the lights are now flashing/blinking.
  • Handle warmth.
    • Is the base of the handle slightly warm after having been sat on the charging stand for a few hours. If so, this is usually a sign it is functioning correctly.
  • Power outlet/socket
    • Try another appliance in the same power outlet/socket and see if that works. If that is also not working the issue might be with that socket. Try an alternative outlet.
  • Turn the toothbrush on with a brush head attached. Slowly place the handle onto the charging stand (connected to power). The handle should turn off, confirming the stand is performing normally.
    • If the handle stays on there is likely a problem with the charging stand rather than the handle.
    • If the handle turns off, but the issue continues, there is likely a fault. Contact Sonicare.
  • Cables & damage.
    • Check the power lead cable to see if there are any cuts or damage. If so stop using for your own safety.
    • Has the charger recently gotten wet or been damaged in some way? If so, stop using for your own safety.
  • Try an alternative charger.
    • Does a friend or family member have a Sonicare toothbrush. If so use their charger to confirm if your brush charges on theirs.
    • If so, it will likely confirm your charger is at fault.

DiamondClean handle does not charge

  • Counters, shelves or any surface made of metal (for example, stainless steel, nickel, or iron) may interfere with the operation of the charger and prevent the handle from charging. Placing the charger glass on a different, non-metallic surface will allow the handle to fully charge. Be sure to charge your Sonicare for at least 24 hours before using again.

If the problem persists after repositioning then contact Sonicare.

Sonicare toothbrush handle turns itself on

  • If the toothbrush is turning itself on, without any interaction from you, then there is a fault with the handle that requires repair. Contact Sonicare.

Toothbrush handle turns itself off

  • Check the brushing mode selected.
    • Your toothbrush may come with different modes and settings. Once a mode is selected, the toothbrush works for a specific time period and then turns off automatically.
    • Here is an overview of possible modes and their timings:
      • Clean = 2 minutes
      • White = 2:30 minutes
      • Polish = 1 minute
      • Gum care = 3 minutes
      • Sensitive = 2 minutes
      • Gum health = 3:20 minutes
      • Tongue care = 20 seconds
  • Changes in vibration while brushing
    • Does the vibration of your toothbrush change momentarily while brushing, but still continues to vibrate? If yes, this means the time pacer or the pressure sensor is on.  
    • This feature indicates when you are supposed to move onto the next section of your teeth via a brief change in vibration. These changes are normal. The toothbrush will automatically turn off at the end of the brushing session.
Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues 2

What do the battery status lights mean?

Your Philips Sonicare toothbrush has smart ways of telling you when it is time for a recharge. The lights and beeps of your toothbrush indicate the charging behaviour.  

Some toothbrushes have only one indicator light, while others have three. Below, you can find what the indicator lights mean for each of these models. 

Note that some toothbrushes like the DailyClean 1100 model do not have a battery light indicator. In this case, just follow the normal charging advice as specified in the user manual. 

  • Toothbrushes with 1 indicator light
    • Toothbrush on charger
      • No lights – Fully charged and on sleep mode
      • Green or white light flashing – Charging
      • Solid green light – Fully charged
    • Toothbrush not on charger
      • Solid green light – Fully charged
      • Flashing green – moderately charged
      • Flashing amber light & 3 beeps – Low battery
      • Flashing amber light & 2 sets of 5 beeps – Battery empty
  • Toothbrushes with 3 indicator lights
    • Toothbrush on charger
      • No lights – Fully charged and on sleep mode
      • 1, 2 or 3 lights flashing – Charging
      • 3 solid green lights – Fully charged
    • Toothbrush not on the charger
      • 3 solid green lights – Fully charged
      • 2 solid green lights – Moderately charged
      • 1 solid green light – Low battery
      • 1 flashing amber light with beeps – Battery empty
  • Toothbrushes with battery shaped LED
    • Toothbrush on charger
      • No lights – Fully charged and on sleep mode
      • Flashing white or green light – Charging
      • Solid green or white light – Fully charged
    • Toothbrush not on the charger
      • Solid white or green light – Fully charged
      • Flashing white or green light – Moderately charged
      • Flashing amber light & 3 beeps – Low battery
      • Flashing amber light & 2 sets of 5 beeps – Battery empty

The metal shaft/adaptor on my handle is loose

  • Remove the brush head and see if the metal shaft on the handle is loose.
    • If yes, there is a fault with your handle. Contact Sonicare.
    • If not, check other troubleshooting advice.

The brush head does not move when the handle is turned on

  • Try removing the brush head and reattaching it.
    • For push on pull off heads
      • Align the brush head so that the bristles face the front of the handle.
      • Firmly press the brush head down onto the metal shaft until it stops. There is a small gap between the bottom of the had and the handle.
    • For screw on and off heads
      • Align the front of the brush head with the front of the toothbrush handle. match the bars that are on the inside top of the removable nut with the notches inside the top of the handle and slide the brush head onto the handle.
      • Screw the brush head nut clockwise until it is firmly tightened. If the brush head rattles when in use, tighten the nut further.
  • Remove the clear plastic travel cap from your brush head.
  • Charge your toothbrush for 24 hours and try again.

If the problem persists, contact Sonicare.

Handle does not vibrate

  • Without a brush head attached to the handle, a change in vibration pattern may well be difficult to detect.
  • Attach a brush head to the handle and turn it on to see whether this improves the situation.
  • Make sure the toothbrush is fully charged. Place the handle in or on the charger for 24 hours before turning it back on.
  • If the handle still does not vibrate it is likely the handle has a fault. Contact Sonicare.

Toothbrush does not vibrate as much as it did/weak vibration/has lost power

  • Make sure that your toothbrush is fully charged – give it up to 24 hours.
  • Did you recently purchase the toothbrush?
    • If so, a feature known as Easystart feature may be activated.
    • The Easystart feature gently increases power over the first 14 brushings to ease into the Sonicare brushing experience. If Easystart is activated, your brush may not seem to be as powerful as expected.
  • The Easystart feature on your toothbrush may have been activated.
    • To determine this, place the handle in a plugged charger base and press the on/off button firmly. If you hear one beep, the Easystart feature has been deactivated. When you use the brush in this condition the brush will be working at its full power level.
    • If you hear two beeps the Easystart feature has been activated, and you will feel less power. 
  • If your toothbrush has more than one mode of operation, you may have activated a different mode with a different brushing action or intensity.
    • Press the cleaning mode/intensity setting button to make relevant changes.
  • Old worn brush heads can also seem to be less effective or powerful in their rushing action.  
    • If your brush head has been in use for more than 3 months, it should be replaced with a new one.

If the problem persists contact Sonicare.

The vibration is too powerful

  • Change the cleaning mode.
    • If your toothbrush has the option to, you may wish to change the cleaning mode selected. Different brushing modes use varying amounts of power from the brush motor causing more or less intense vibrations at the brush head.
  • Adjust the intensity setting.
    • If your Sonicare toothbrush offers the option to choose between 3 different intensity settings, change the level set.
  • You can change between low, medium and high.
    • To change this, press the mode/intensity button (power button in some instances) to change the setting.
    • The level is usually indicated via 1, 2 or 3 LEDs on the brush handle.
      • 1 led = low
      • 2 led= medium
      • 3 led = high
Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues 3

The handle is very loud/noisy

  • Are you familiar with a sonic toothbrush?
    • The sound and vibration may appear odd because you are not familiar with the sound that it makes, particularly if this is your first electric toothbrush.
  • Check that the brush head is attached correctly.
    • A loose brush head may result in increased noise being generated.
    • If no brush head is attached it will likely sound louder.
  • If certain modes the toothbrush will sound louder, and if the highest level of brushing intensity has been set, this will increase the pitch of the sound.
  • Brush head could be worn.
    • If the brush head has been used for more than three months, you might need to replace the brush head. As they wear out the may produce more noise.
  • Genuine Sonicare brush head?
    • If you are not using a Sonicare manufactured brush head it may make more noise than an original.

If you feel the sound is still too loud, contact Sonicare.

Quadpacer/30 second/20 second timer does not work any more

  • The timer may have been disabled.
    • To reactivate the Quadpacer: press and hold the Personalised Brushing button for 5 seconds until you hear 2 beeps. This indicates that the Quadpacer is active again.
    • To deactivate the Quadpacer: press and hold the Personalised Brushing button for 5 seconds. You hear 1 beep to indicate that the Quadpacer has been deactivated.

Brush head falls off toothbrush handle

The common causes and solutions are as follows.

  • The brush head is not attached properly. Try removing the brush head and reattaching it.
    • For push on pull off heads
      • Align the brush head so that the bristles face the front of the handle.
      • Firmly press the brush head down onto the metal shaft until it stops. There is a small gap between the bottom of the had and the handle.
    • For screw on and off heads
      • Align the front of the brush head with the front of the toothbrush handle. match the bars that are on the inside top of the removable nut with the notches inside the top of the handle and slide the brush head onto the handle.
      • Screw the brush head nut clockwise until it is firmly tightened. If the brush head rattles when in use, tighten the nut further.
  • The brush head or handle is dirty.
    • Make sure that the bottom of the brush head and the areas around the shaft are clean and free of grime or debris.
    • You can clean your brush head and the metal shaft with lukewarm water of a soft cloth.
  • Incorrect brush head type.
    • Are you using a brush head compatible with your Sonicare toothbrush?
    • If you are not using a manufacturer original, do so to see if the issue continues.

If the issue persists, contact Sonicare.

I can’t connect my Sonicare toothbrush to the app

  • Sonicare App update
    • Ensure that you have the latest version of the Sonicare app installed on your smartphone.
    • Visit the app store on your smartphone and check for and install the latest updates.
  • Smartphone software update
    • Check to see if you have the latest operating system running on your smartphone.
      • Android smartphone that runs on Android 6.0 and higher.
      • iPhone that runs on iOS 11.0 and higher.
  • Not using the compatible toothbrush.
    • The Sonicare app is only compatible with the following connected toothbrushes:
      • DiamondClean Smart
      • Flexcare Platinum Connected
      • ExpertClean
      • DiamondClean 9000
      • for Kids (Only compatiable with Sonicare Kids App)
  • Toothbrush is not on
    • Turn on your toothbrush by either removing it from the charger or pressing the mode button.
    • The lights on the handle will illuminate to tell you that your toothbrush is turned on.
  • Toothbrush is not charged
    • If this is a new toothbrush, and your first time trying to connect to the app, ensure that the toothbrush handle is fully charged. 
  • Bluetooth is not on or pairing
    • Check to see if the Bluetooth on your smartphone is turned on before opening the Sonicare App. If not, go to the settings on your smartphone to turn on Bluetooth.
    • If it still does not connect, try to reset your Bluetooth network on your smartphone. Use below steps to clear the cache of your Android or iPhone device:
      • Clear Bluetooth cache on Android
        • Go to Settings
        • Select ‘Application Manager’
        • Press ‘More’ or the 3 dots in the upper right corner
        • Select ‘Show system apps’
        • Select ‘Bluetooth’ or ‘Bluetooth share’
        • Select Storage
        • Tap ‘Clear Cache’
        • Restart your phone
        • Try to connect again following the steps on the Sonicare App
      • Clear Bluetooth cache on iOS
        • Go to ‘Settings’
        • Select ‘Bluetooth’
        • Make sure that Bluetooth is on
        • Under ‘my devices’ tap the ‘info icon’ next to the toothbrush
        • Select ‘Forget this device’
        • Try to connect again following the steps on the Sonicare App
  • Other devices are interfering
    • Keep your Philips Sonicare Toothbrush away from other Bluetooth devices as this may interfere with the Bluetooth pairing.
Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues 4

Activate/disable the brush head replacement reminders on BrushSync enabled handles

  • Make sure the smart brush head is on the handle (it won’t work if not fitted).
  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • Press and hold the power button for up to 5 seconds.
  • Let go of the power button when you hear 1 beep and then 2 beeps.
  • If you see the battery indication blink white 2 times and hear 3 tones from low to high, then the feature has been activated.
  • If you see battery indication blink white once and hear 3 tones high to low, then the feature has been deactivated.

For DiamondClean Smart

  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • The brush head replacement reminder is enabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button three times while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep twice to confirm it is enabled.
  • The brush head replacement reminder is disabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button three times while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep once to confirm it is disabled.

Activate/disable the pressure sensor

  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • Press and hold the power button for up to 5 seconds.
  • Let go of the power button when you hear 1 beep, 2 beeps and then 3 beeps.
  • If you see the battery indication blink white 2 times and hear 3 tones from low to high, then the feature has been activated.
  • If you see battery indication blink white once and hear3 tones high to low, then the feature has been deactivated.

For DiamondClean Smart

  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • The pressure sensor is enabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button twice while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep twice to confirm it is enabled.
  • The pressure sensor is disabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button twice while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep once to confirm it is disabled.

Activate/disable Easy-Start

  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • Press and hold the power button for up to 3 seconds.
  • Let go of the power button when you hear 1 beep.
  • If you see the battery indication blink white 2 times and hear 3 tones from low to high, then the feature has been activated.
  • If you see battery indication blink white once and hear 3 tones high to low, then the feature has been deactivated.

For DiamondClean Smart

  • Place the handle in/on the charger.
  • The Easy-start is enabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button one while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep twice to confirm it is enabled.
  • The Easy-start is disabled by holding the mode/intensity button and by pressing the power button once while on a charger.
  • The handle will beep once to confirm it is disabled.

Your Comments

Do you own a Sonicare that has a fault? What is the problem?

Have you had problems with your toothbrush in the past? What was the problem and the solution?

Let us and others know by leaving a comment below.

About Jon Love

Jon is a leading voice on electric toothbrushes and has been quoted by mainstream media publications for his opinions and expertise. Having handled & tested hundreds of products there really is very little he does not know about them. Passionate about business and helping others, Jon has been involved in various online enterprises since the early 2000s. After spending 12 years in consumer technology, it was in 2014 that he focused his attention on dental health, having experienced first-hand the challenge of choosing a new toothbrush.

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88 thoughts on “Philips Sonicare Troubleshooting & Common Issues”

  1. My Sonicare is being oddly – when trying to recharge it it emits a beep followed by 2 beeps and continues to do this repeatedly . Is this a death rattle ? it does not seem to be charging

    Reply
    • Hi Charles. It doesn’t sound too promosing, but I am afraid I can’t advise on this accurately. If you use the contact details at the top of this article, hopefully Philips can by taking some more info from you etc.

      Reply
  2. My toothbrush intermittently (every few seconds) swaps between normal mode and a warning for toothbrush head replacement. I have fitted a new head, but the problem persists.
    Bought this toothbrush earlier this year.

    Reply
    • Hi Helen,

      The handle should have picked up the replacement head. You could try disabling and then activating the reminder system to reset it.

      Make sure the smart brush head is on the handle (it won’t work if not fitted).
      Place the handle in/on the charger.
      Press and hold the power button for up to 5 seconds.
      Let go of the power button when you hear 1 beep and then 2 beeps.
      If you see the battery indication blink white 2 times and hear 3 tones from low to high, then the feature has been activated.
      If you see battery indication blink white once and hear 3 tones high to low, then the feature has been deactivated.

      Reply
  3. I just purchased a power up pink philps sonicare toothbrush. I have had a few of theses before but this one has a very owerful vibration and a loud noise that makes it unpleasant to use. In fact I wonder if its even safe it is so loud. Can you help please? Thank you Margaret

    Reply
    • Margaret.
      If you are not satisfied with the Powerup unit that you have, you will need to go back to the retailer you purchased it from or speak to Philips to see if there is indeed a fault.
      Given you have had a few before, you know what to expect and are probably right if you think it isn’t functioning correctly.

      Reply
  4. I’ve purchased a Sonicare Expertresults 7000

    Do the indicator lights turn on by holding the handle even though I don’t touch the power button? I’ve noticed that if I move the toothbrush handle in certain directions (especially upside down), the indicator lights automatically turn on even though I don’t touch the power button. There’s no vibration unless I press the power button. Is this normal?

    I did encounter a review on the web for Sonicare Diamond Clean 9000 that suggests the indicator lights do turn on just by picking up the handle.

    Reply
    • Interesting question Allen and not necesarrily one I can give a difinitve answer on.

      Most brushes don’t do this. Although I know some that do. Essentially sensors in the brush detect motion and light up accordingly, thinking they are about to be used.

      I don’t have an Expert Results brush to hand to be able to check this myself. Even then there could be differences between models. Time or production/model changes etc. Only if we had the exact same could I confirm.

      It might be worth contacting Philips but I doubt they would give a difinitive answer going by my past expereinces of customer support for such a specific matter.

      Unless you are noticing singificant battery drain or performance issues as a result, I wouldn’t be too concerned.

      Reply
  5. Hi, my Sonicare is not charging properly. When on the charging base it vibrates until i take it off. 3 vibrations, 1 long one and 2 short. When I take it off it vibrates randomly for a short while. I’m not sure what model it is. It has the number hx6710 on it.

    Reply
    • Jane. Sorry to read about your issue. Best to contact Philips Sonicare support directly for assistance on this.

      Reply
  6. Hi, my Sonicare diamond 9000 seems to stay on after use. Not the head so much but the lights. So the next day the battery is nearly discharged and I need to charge again. Is there a quick fix for this?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi James.

      I don’t know what the cause or solution is here I am afraid. You will need to speak to Sonicare for assistance.
      Please do share for us and others on the recommended solution in this instance.

      Reply
  7. My toothbrush won’t turn on and when I put it in charge the battery indicator light, more light and 3 timing lights (the ones that look like phone signal bars) all flash rapidly. Any ideas if this can be fixed? If tried cleaning around the buttons and the base where the charger goes.

    Reply
    • Dorian. Probably best to call Sonicare on the numbers above and discuss with them based on the brush you have etc. All being well it can be fixed.

      Reply
  8. My Sonicare handle is peeking around the buttons. Whilst the handle works perfectly it is rather unsightly. It’s been this way for over a year now but I have only just discovered your page. Please any advise is welcome because I’d rather not buy a new one

    Reply
        • Ahh, that makes more sense! 😄

          I am not sure what you can really do about this. I haven’t really heard of this issue before. It shouldn’t happen, unless there has been some damage which could cause it.

          I would suggest the best thing to do is to speak to Philips Sonicare directly and raise the issue to see if they agree that it shouldn’t be happening. All being well (fingers crossed), if it is within it’s warranty period they look to replace it for you.

          Reply
  9. Hi I have a 15month old n4300 sonicare.
    It is only keeping charge for about 48hours Evie the green led flashes, Indicating it requires charging?
    I noticed when placed on the charging station, it bleeps twice to indicate its connected and charging, the green light comes on, but after about 15 seconds the green light goes off?
    Can you advise please?

    Reply
    • So after about 48 hours Kay, it is completely flat and won’t turn on at all?
      The light should usually pulse green when set on the charger.

      Reply
      • It does charge and I can use it,but after 48hrs of using the light flashes to indicate it requires charging again,although it’s not completely flat

        Reply
        • Hi Kay. So the 4300 should perform as follows:

          The way in which it flashes and the colour it is lit tells you how much power is in the Lithium battery.

          A solid green LED means a full battery.
          A flashing green LED means a medium battery.
          A flashing amber LED and three beeps means a low battery.
          A flashing amber LED and five beeps means no brushing sessions left, you need to charge the toothbrush.

          Thus carry on using the brush until you start seeing a flashing amber LED and or the flashing amber LED with the beeps. Depending on how long that time frame is will help determine whether there is an issue with the battery.

          I presume previously it took more than 48 hours for the green light to begin flashing. But I guess at this stage it is trying to work out whether the battery is failing.

          Reply
          • Hi again.
            So I’ve left my brush on charge for 24 hours as advised.
            Now the brush won’t work or turn on at all?
            When I put it back on the charging station the green light just flashes all the time? The brush is only 15mths old.
            I presume I will need to contact sonicare direct?
            Thank you

            Reply
  10. My Sonicare started on its own, ran for two mins, stopped for about one min and then started again, This repeats until I place it on its charger, and then it stops. I can use it by taking it off, and it will cycle again until I replace it on the charger. The button seems not to operate, and holding it down for a long period has no effect. Is there any cunning reset technique that I need to know?

    Reply
    • Hi John.
      I am not sure which model you have but no reset technique I would know of that would sort this. Not sure what’s going on here, one to contact Philips about I think.

      Reply
      • Thank you. I have tried them, but their suggestion of depressing the button for eight seconds while the tooothbrush is on the charger did not work. If I consign it to the bin it will continue to run and stop for ages. How will I explain that to the binmen? I joke, it will run out of power before they come again in a fortnight. At least, I think it will!

        Reply
        • Ok John, thanks for letting me know you spoke to them and what their suggestion was.
          As mad as it sounds, letting it run out completely and then recharging it fully might be a fix. I doubt it, but there is always a chance!
          I have seen odd bugs be corrected by the battery being depleted and recharged.

          Reply
  11. The rubber seal where the spindle leaves the handle on my sonicare seemed to disintegrate. After a few more weeks it refuses to charge, kepps switching off charging after a minute.

    Reply
    • Hi Tony.

      It sounds a bit like the brush keeps detecting the charger. Usually, the handle vibrates when placed in or on a charger. It sounds like your brush is repeatedly doing this as if it is disconnecting.

      I don’t know what the solution is I am afraid, I would give Sonicare a call or message and see what they suggest.

      Reply
  12. Hi Jon,
    My HX9350 vibrates in the charger with the amber light coming on. It does 3 vibrates then rests a while before repeating. Removing it from the charger stops this. (I have a glass charger but it does the same in the storage box charger.)
    Any idea about the problem?

    Reply
    • Is the orange light from the battery icon/led?
      It isn’t a flashing orange light above/on a picture of what looks like a toothbrush head is it?

      Reply
  13. Why does my Sonicare toothbrush continually beep whilst charging and the lights go Orange>Green>2nd Green > Green> Orange repeating?

    Reply
    • That doesn’t sound normal Mark. Do you know what model you have? Did the battery go completely flat or was there some charge remaining in the brush before you placed it on the charger and it began doing this?

      Reply
      • Hi Jon
        Yes there was some charge left. Model HX6930. It does stop for a while if I change settings eg clean>sensitive> massage. Then after a few mins on charge it beeps again

        Reply
        • Thanks Mark.

          It shouldn’t be doing this as you know. A possible solution is to use the brush until it is completely flat. Then recharge it fully and see if the problem continues. No guarantee it will work, but the complete charge may resolve the issue. Failing that I advise getting in touch with Sonicare directly to see if they have any advice or additional insight.

          Reply
  14. The rubber grommet you press for starting the Sonicare has a hole in it and it means the contact between the grommet and the metal “button” is random as the grommet moves around too much. Getting it to contact means more destruction of the grommet. Is it possible to replace the grommet? The toothbrush otherwise functions well.

    Reply
    • Hi Sally.

      It is potentially possible that this is replaceable although I haven’t heard of it being user replaceable and being given out as a part by Philips. If replaceable, I suspect Philips Sonicare themselves would have to do this. I suspect they will only cover if under warranty though. Best to get in contact with them and see what they advise.

      Reply
    • Hi John. Do you have more details please? What model do you have? Is it a new model or an older model? Have you used it and it was/felt more powerful?

      Reply
        • If you think that the new one is not performing correctly then John, it might be having a word with Sonicare/Philips customer support to see what they have to say.
          It is quite rare for a toothbrush to be working incorrectly out of the box, but possible.
          Do bear in mind that brush head styles can affect the brushing sensation and that power isn’t the most important element of toothbrushing. It can help, but technique and brushing time play a more important role than the power alone.

          Reply
  15. I’ve tried everything but my Philips Sonicare won’t connect with the Bluetooth on my smartphone.
    The use of an app was one of the main reasons why I bought this electric toothbrush (I bought several, to myself and my children)
    So what do I do now?

    Reply
    • Probably best to contact Philips Sonicare and run through some troubleshooting with them. Perhaps there is something that has been missed or can be completed to get it working.

      Reply
  16. The lights keep flashing on my Sonicare diamond toothbrush when not using it which drains the battery. Is there a way of switching this off?
    Thanks, Gary.

    Reply
  17. The red light pressure/low battery indicator on my Oral B has started flashing every time I switch the toothbrush off. Should I be concerned? The brush works well apart from that.

    Reply
    • Perhaps best to give Oral-B a call. It doesn’t sound normal.
      No massive concern, if the brush is still operating correctly otherwise, but best to see what they have to say about it.

      Reply
  18. Hi. The row of white lights on my Sonicare is on continuously when not in use. Subsequently it is always running itself flat Is there a truck I am missing? The machine is new. Thx.

    Reply
  19. My sonicare toothbrush has stopped working properly. It switches on but makes a continuous high pitched beep and the head does not vibrate.

    Reply
  20. Dear Philips
    I can’t tell you how annoyed I am . I am now on my second sonic are diamond in 4 years , got up this morning and the whole thing is dead , won’t charge , or work or anything’s
    I’m sorry but you suggest they last 3-5 years , not in my experience ! First one thoughts I was unlucky again this one !
    I don’t have the receipt and therefore can’t return it however it is probably just between 18 months – 2.5 years old .
    Unfortunately you have lost a customer for life , will not go to a different manufacture to see if theirs are of better quality .
    So disappointed

    Reply
    • Hi Kar,

      Thanks for the comment and sorry to hear how disappointed you are in Philips. Just to clarify, we are not Philips, nor are we associated with them. We have simply written some troubleshooting advice.

      May I suggest you contacting Sonicare on the off-chance that they may well be able to do something to assist?

      Reply
    • Anita. This beeping sound is usually to acknowledge that the toothbrush has detected the stand.

      When you say no power, do you mean in the toothbrush or the stand is not connected to power?

      If the toothbrush is completely out of charge you may need to give it some time to recharge before it works again.

      Reply
      • It’s an intermittent beeping noise. beeeee bip beeeee bip bip. Does that for hours when it’s on the charger. Off the charger, it doesn’t work. No power.

        Reply
        • Ok thanks for the extra info Anita. It is going to be best to get in contact with Sonicare themselves for further support on this one. Telephone number: 0207 949 0240

          Reply
  21. Hi Jon,

    My Sonicare DIamondcare 9000 is synced to the app and was tracking my cleaning until Thursday and now nothing, handle is still connected by Bluetooth but nothing is happening.

    Cheers for your help in advance.

    Jason

    Reply
    • Hi Jason.

      The first thing to try if you haven’t already is disconnecting and reconnecting the handle to the app to see if this solves it.

      Then it is worth checking that the app is up to date by visiting the app store on your phone to check if any updates are available.

      It could well be that the app has updated in the background and caused an issue. I have had a couple of others report similar issues, although the date the syncing stopped working is a few days out. If this is the case, Sonicare will likely issue another update/fix soon.

      The last option and possibly the best is to speak to Philips Sonicare directly to see if they have any further tips.

      Reply
  22. Hi Jon!
    My Sonicare protective clean is currently driving us crazy… it has a life of its own and randomly turns itself on and off, suddenly buzzing loudly in the middle of the night, or any time of day. I haven’t dropped it or submerged it in water. Hopefully I’ll find my warranty!
    Michaela

    Reply
    • Sorry to hear this Michaela. I have seen others complain about this issue on other models, not the ProtectiveClean range. Get in contact with Sonicare, and I suspect they will replace it.

      Reply
  23. First comment – why in the world doesn’t Phillips mark the toothbrush with the model name? All the packaging is identified by name, but who knows which model you have just by color?

    My trusty old sonicare (lavender) started beeping in sequences and even turned itself on and ran through a cycle or two. It is so random! I cannot find any information on various sites to explain the significance of the beeps. How can I tell if the problem is with the charger? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Hi Gayle.

      You should find on the bottom of the brush handle is a model number. It will likely start HX followed by 4 numbers. This tells us the model number. Admittedly it would be easier if they just printed it as words.

      I have seen a few reports of brushes randomly turning themselves on. Typically these models need to be replaced (if under warranty).

      Is the toothbrush working normally when you come to use it? Does it appear to be charging? Or are these beeps and the random turning on appearing to stop the brush from functioning normally?

      Reply
  24. Just wanted to share a problem I had with a DiamondClean 9000 which is the opposite of most peoples issues – my brush wouldn’t turn off! It wasn’t brushing all the time, but the lights continuously flashed like they do when you pick it up.

    In addition the app wouldn’t connect.

    I first tried to fix the issue by deleting it from Bluetooth on my iOS14 phone which left it in an even weirder state where iOS showed it flicking between the “My Devices” (paired) list and “Other Devices” (devices in range to pair with).

    Finally turning off/on bluetooth on my phone allowed the toothbrush to finally turn off. Re-opening the Philips app it immediately found the handle and re-connected. Not had a problem again.

    This meant our handle went flat within a day as my office must be within bluetooth range of our ensuite.

    Reply
  25. My sonicare has started buzzing twice then once repeatedly whilst on the charger – it does not stop even after write a few minutes. Is this am error code of some sort. The base works fine with another similar handle and it only does it when on the base.

    Reply
    • Hi Ian.

      It sounds like something is wrong if it is repeatedly doing this. I am not familiar with this as an error code.

      May I suggest that you contact Philips Sonicare on 0207 949 0240 (Monday – Friday: 8:30 am to 8:00 pm or Saturday: 9 am to 6 pm).

      Or use other contact options here.

      If you are able to share the feedback you get from Sonicare that will help me and other readers.

      Reply
  26. Have had 2 brushes that turn themselves on in the middle of the night. Impossible to turn them off again for more than a few seconds. Cleaned the switches out, still the same. I believe it’s a common fault in all these brushes.

    Reply
  27. HI,

    I have a Philips Sonicare Toothbrush (Black Diamond Clean). It recently started on its own for no reason. I have cleaned the power button and ensured all the points mentioned in trouble shooting were covered. When I try to charge the brush in the wireless charging case two green lights flash and then a single orange light flashes. At the same time the brush vibrates. I cannot find any reference to this issue and how to resolve it. I am on my 4th brush having had to the brushes replaced due to similar problems. The device is not cheap and to have to replace them every 3-5 years can become expensive. Please advise. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi Rob.

      Thanks for sharing your problem. Based on what you are saying, I believe this might be yet another brush that requires replacement. I suggest you make contact with Sonicare to see if this is under warranty and can be repaired or replaced.

      Reply
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