Skip to content
Plate & Curl
Menu

Fix

ghd straighteners red light and beeping explained

Published

Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

In short

On ghd stylers, a short beep usually means the plates have reached styling temperature and are ready. Beeping before switching off is normally sleep mode. Continuous beeping or a flashing light usually means a fault. Patterns differ by model and age, so check your manual and contact ghd if the warning repeats.

Products for this job

Compare all 7 products

ghd stylers use lights and beeps to tell you what they are doing. Most of the time a beep is good news: the plates are hot and ready. But a red light that flashes, or beeping that will not stop, can mean the styler has found a fault. The patterns are not the same on every model, and older stylers behave differently from the Platinum+ and Chronos. This guide explains the common signals, what to do about each, and when to stop using your straighteners and contact ghd. Your manual is the final word for your exact model.

The common patterns at a glance

This table summarises how ghd stylers usually communicate. Treat it as a general guide only: ghd sets the patterns for each model, and they can change between generations.

What you see or hearUsual meaningWhat to do
Light comes on at switch-onPower on, heating upWait for the ready signal
One or two beeps after heatingReady to styleStart styling
Beeps, then switches offSleep mode after no useSwitch on again
Light flashing during heat-upStill heating on some modelsWait; check the manual
Flashing light with repeated beepingFault warning on many modelsSwitch off, unplug, contact ghd
Light on, no heat, no beepPossible heater faultSee the not working guide
Typical ghd lights and beeps (check your manual)

Why are my ghd straighteners beeping?

The most common reason is simple: ghd stylers beep when the plates reach their styling temperature. On most current models this is 185 °C (365 °F), and ghd lists heat-up times of around 30 seconds on models such as the Max. If you hear a beep shortly after switching on, that is normal.

The second common reason is sleep mode. ghd stylers switch themselves off after a period of no use. The listed times vary: ghd gives 30 minutes for the Max and Curve tools, 10 minutes for the Chronos and 3 minutes for the cordless Unplugged. Some models beep as they go to sleep. Switch the styler off and on to wake it.

The third reason is a fault. If the beeping is continuous or comes with a flashing light, the styler may have detected a problem with a heater or sensor.

Red light flashing: is it broken?

Not always. On some older ghd models the red light simply showed the styler was on. On newer models a steady light during use is normal, while a light that flashes rapidly together with beeping is a common sign of a fault. Because the meaning depends on the model, look up the pattern in your manual or on ghd's website before deciding the styler is broken.

If the flashing starts and the plates are not heating, or one plate is cold, stop using it. Our ghd straighteners not working guide covers the checks for no heat and no power.

Note:If the styler beeps or flashes and also smells of burning, makes crackling sounds or the cable feels hot, unplug it at once and do not use it again until it has been checked by ghd.

What to try when a fault warning appears

Do not keep resetting a styler that repeatedly shows a fault. The warning exists to protect you and the tool.

  1. 1

    Switch the styler off and unplug it.

  2. 2

    Leave it to cool for at least 15 minutes.

  3. 3

    Plug it directly into a wall socket that you know works.

  4. 4

    Switch it on and watch the light pattern during heat-up.

  5. 5

    If the warning returns, note the pattern and contact ghd with your model and serial number.

Is it a genuine ghd?

Counterfeit ghds often have lights and beeps that do not match the genuine model, or none at all. They may also lack the temperature control and safety features that make the beeps meaningful. If your styler was bought from an unofficial seller and behaves oddly, read how to spot fake ghd and Dyson stylers.

If you are ready to replace an old styler, the ghd straighteners compared guide explains the differences between the Gold, Platinum+, Chronos and Max.

Compare current ghd models →

Guarantee and repairs

ghd states a two-year manufacturer's guarantee on its current stylers and offers a repair service. If your styler shows a fault warning within that period, contact ghd rather than a third-party repairer. Terms change, so check ghd's own website for the current details. See ghd warranty and repairs explained for what to have ready.

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal for ghd straighteners to beep? Yes. A short beep after switching on usually means they have reached styling temperature. Beeping before turning off is usually sleep mode.

Why are my ghd straighteners beeping and not heating? That combination often signals a fault. Switch off, unplug, let it cool and try again. If it repeats, contact ghd.

Can I turn off the beep on my ghd? ghd does not generally offer a way to switch off the beep on its stylers. Check your manual, as features vary by model.

Does a flashing light mean my ghd is fake? No. Genuine ghds flash for several reasons. But if the light and beep behaviour does not match your manual at all, check where it was bought.

What you need

Sources