It stops. At least that works However, I've had mine for less than a week. I bought this because it has a heating element, which is very important to me. I hear about the new energy efficient dishwashers leaving your dishes damp. Well, this one leaves my dishes soaking wet, a big puddle on the inside of the door and condensation and a wet film on every side and bottom of the basin. Instructions say to used jet dry solution which I did. A tech is coming to look at it this weekend. They said that shouldn't be happening. However, I have seen many complaints online from others having the same experience. Let's hope they fix it or I'm returning it. I paid extra for that feature!