Samsung dryers are a worthwhile investment. They are super quiet, ideal for drying wrinkling fabrics, easy to use, and have a sanitization feature. So much so that when your dryer stops working or malfunctions, you are left in a bind.
While you can call a professional to troubleshoot it or contact the Samsung support center, figuring it out is super easy if you have a troubleshooting guide.
How do you reset a Samsung dryer?
When your dryer stops working, it displays an error code. Your first instinct is to reset it in most cases to try and fix it. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the ideal way to fix your dryer. In most cases, the reset may work, but in other cases, additional troubleshooting is necessary.
Resetting your dryer may clear error codes, but it will not help fix issues such as a blocked vent or a worn-out drive belt. Additionally, when the dryer is still not working, clearing all error codes will make it difficult for your technician to figure out what is wrong with the dryer.
So when should you reset your dryer?
- In case of an electronic glitch caused by a power outage
- After fixing a malfunction to clear an error code
- When you are unable to select settings for different features
The resetting process;
All you have to do is unplug the dryer or turn off the dryer’s power and wait for the electrical charge to clear out of the dryer. This should take 1-5 mites. Then plug the dryer or turn on the power and proceed to restart it.
Network reset process
This step helps to clear Wi-Fi and network information stored on the dryer control board. It only works for dryers that are Wi-Fi compatible.
- Hold the Smart Control button until AP appears. This will only take three seconds.
- Then press the Temp button for about 7-seconds until OK appears.
- The display will automatically go to AP.
- Then turn off the dryer.
Where is the Samsung dryer reset button?
Samsung dryers do not come with a reset button. The reset process above applies to all Samsung dryers.
Why is my Samsung dryer making noise?
Samsung dryer noises fall into four main categories depending on the issue;
Rattling noise
This could be a result of the uneven placement of the dryer. Level the dryer by placing it on even ground and adjust the feet if some of them are loose. Then check if the exhaust vent is loose and fix it as this may be another cause of the rattling noise.
Also, check to see that the vent is not coming into contact with the power cord, as this may also cause a rattling noise. Lastly, check to see if there are any loose objects in the drum, such as pens, coins, or buttons.
Thumping or rumbling noise
This could be a result of dryer overload. It could also be caused by items such as buttons, zippers, or snaps touching the dryer drum interior while it is running. Ensure you do not overload your drum or place the zipper or buttoned edges of your clothing against the drum walls.
If the dryer makes a thumping noise when it is empty, call a professional to look at it.
Grinding, squeaking, or squealing noise
The main reason for these sounds is a heavy drying load. Stop the cycle and reduce the number of items in the dryer. It would help if you also ran the clothes through a spin cycle to reduce the excess water before drying them.
Humming noise
This is a typical sound, but a loud humming sound could indicate that the air vent is blocked.
Troubleshooting noises based on damaged or worn out dryer parts
Inspect various parts of the dryer to see if they have issues and fix them. These include;
Drive belt
This is a long belt that wraps around the dryer drum, tension pulley, and the drive’s motor. The drive belt is responsible for turning the dryer drum, which helps to tumble dry your clothes. If it is damaged or frayed, the drum dryer may wobble, causing it to be noisy. To fix this, you need to replace the drive belt.
Drum rollers
These work in tandem with the drive belt to help turn the dryer drum. They are usually located at the back of the drum. But some dryers have additional rollers in front of the drum. If your drum’s rollers are worn out, the dryer drum may make a rumbling noise similar to a rolling drum due to the lack of proper support when turning.
Replace the rollers if they are worn out. In some cases, all you need to do is clean them as well as the roller shaft. Once you have done this and the noise persists, then proceed to replace the drum rollers.
Drum roller axle
This axle helps the drum roller to turn and may wear out over time due to friction. When this happens, the drum will rattle when turning, causing it to make a noise. To test if the roller axle and rollers are worn out, remove the drive belt and turn the drum manually.
If the drum does not rotate freely or requires force, then the rollers and axle are worn out. Proceed to inspect them and replace the roller axle as needed.
Blower wheel
This helps to draw air from the dryer into the dryer vent. At times it gets clogged by lint, socks, or small clothing causing it to become blocked. This may result in muffled noises caused by the clogging. Additionally, the blower wheel may begin to wobble if the blower wheel sleeve is worn out.
Check airflow strength coming out of the dryer vent to determine if the blower wheel is functioning correctly. Then check for obstructions and remove them. If the issue persists, replace the blower wheel.
Drum bearing
When your drum bearings are worn out, the dryer will make squealing and grinding noises. Additionally, when you turn the drum manually, it will be challenging to turn. The drum bearings are responsible for supporting the fryer drum at the rear. Replace them if they are worn out.
Drum Slide, Glide, or Pad
The drum slides support the front of the dryer drum and are usually made of plastic. The drum slides may wear out, causing the dryer to make a noise as the drum rotates. Inspect them for wear and replaces them as needed.
Idler Assembly and Idler Pulley
Inspect the idler assembly and the pulley for wear and tear and replace them if needed. For best results, replace the drive belt as well, as they all work in tandem, and you may still need to replace the belt at a later day.
Drive motor bearings
This should be your last stop after you have inspected all the other parts listed above and find they are all functioning okay. Fidgeting with your dryer’s motor can lead to significant malfunctioning, so be careful when inspecting and replacing the bearings if they are worn out.
Drive Motor
If all the other parts are working fine and your dryer still makes noises, then the drive motor may be broken. Look for a professional to replace the drive motor as this is the heart of the dryer, and poor installation may damage your dryer. Solution
Samsung dryer troubleshooting codes: error code list, their meaning, and fixes
Error codes are essential for identifying the underlying issue. Fortunately, most problems with an error code are easy to fix. Here are the Samsung dryer error codes;
Voltage errors (9C1, 9E, 2E, 9E1)
This code appears when the voltage being supplied to the dryer is not enough or too high. Ensure the dryer is on its circuit and not using an extension cord. Also, make sure the power cord has been installed correctly, and the correct voltage is being supplied.
You may get this error if you have a dryer model designed for use in a different country, as power grids and their regulations vary between countries.
Jammed button errors (bE, bE2, bC2, 6E, 6E2, 6C2)
This appears if a button on the panel is detected as stuck or continuously pressed. Power off the dryer and then individually touch and release every button on the panel, working back and forth to reach all edges of each button.
If any of the buttons are damaged, or the code returns after powering on the dryer, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Door-Related errors (DC, dE, dF, do, d0, 1 DC, 1 dF)
These are related to the door, latch, and the sensors that detect whether they are secured correctly. This usually happens when the door won’t stay closed or won’t close or latch.
Check that the latch is securely fixed, laundry or other items are not caught in the door, and the door is closed and secured correctly. If the code persists or damages the door or latch, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Temperature errors (tS, t5, tC, tO, t0, tE, tE3, tC5, tCS, 1 tC, 1tC5, 1tCS)
These reflect an issue with the temperature or with the sensors that measure it. The most common cause is a clogged lint screen or vent system trapping heat in the dryer. Clean the lint screen, vent system, or both to correct the error.
If the error continues after cleaning the lint screen and the exhaust vent, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Heating errors (HC, hE, HC4, 1 HC)
This means that the dryer is getting too hot. The primary cause of this is a clogged lint screen or vent system trapping heat in the dryer. Clean the lint screen, vent system, or both to correct the error.
If the error continues after cleaning the lint screen and the exhaust vent, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Communication errors (AC, Et, AE, EEE, AE4, AE3, AE5, E3, 1 AC)
This code means the dryer’s internal components cannot communicate with each other. Shut off the dryer for 60 seconds, and then turn it back on again. If the error code remains, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer.
Frequency errors (FC, FE, 1 FC)
These codes mean that there is an invalid power source frequency. To fix this, try restarting the cycle. If the error code remains, hire a certified professional to repair the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
All other errors
If the dryer displays an error code that was not on the list, the error usually indicates an issue with the dryer’s sensors and components.
Here are some examples:
- 3C – Motor Error
- oD – Dry Time Error
- 1 AC7 – Electronic Control Error
- HC2 – Gas Ignition Error
If you get one of these errors, or any other errors, power off the dryer for 2-3 minutes, power it back on, and restart the cycle.
If this doesn’t work, try checking your user manual for exact troubleshooting steps. If you see something that looks like an upside-down “F,” it’s meant to be a “t.” Please refer to the Temperature errors. If the error returns, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Samsung dryer red light flashing
The flickering dryer light can be normal or not, depending on the flicker’s length and the color intensity of the flicker. Here are some light signals that indicate an underlying issue and what they mean;
Extra Low or 20-minute light is blinking – Frequency errors
Either of these codes means that there is an invalid power source frequency. Restart the cycle, and it should reset. If the error code remains, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Low light is blinking – Jammed button error
This appears if a button on the panel is stuck or continuously pressed. Power off the dryer and then individually touch and release every button on the panel, working back and forth to reach all edges of each button.
If any of the buttons are damaged, or the code returns after powering on the dryer, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Medium is blinking – Communication error
This means the dryer’s internal components cannot communicate with each other. Shut off the dryer for 60 seconds, and then turn it back on again. If the error reappears, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
High light or 40-minute light is blinking – Door-related errors
Either of these lights blinking means there’s an issue with the door, latch, or the sensors that detect whether they are secured correctly. Check that the latch is securely fixed, laundry or other items are not caught in the door, and the door is closed.
If the code cannot be corrected or there is damage to the door or latch, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
60-minute light is blinking – Heating error
This means that the dryer is getting too hot.
The most common cause is a clogged lint screen or vent system trapping heat in the dryer. Clean the lint screen, vent system, or both to correct the error.
If the error continues after cleaning the lint screen and the exhaust vent, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
80-minute light is blinking – Voltage error
As with the error codes listed above, ensure the dryer is on its circuit and not using an extension cord. Also, make sure the power cord has been installed correctly, and the correct voltage is being supplied.
You may get this error if you have a dryer model designed for use in a different country, as power grids and their regulations vary between countries.
If the error continues, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Any other lights are blinking
Blinking lights do not always mean an error code. On some models, the current status of the cycle will blink. Before assuming that blinking lights mean an issue with the dryer, check to see if the dryer is experiencing any other problems or symptoms of any kind.
If the dryer is experiencing any other issue, search our support content for an article that addresses the dryer’s problem to troubleshoot it directly. Otherwise, if your dryer is working, no action is needed.
Samsung dryer Thermal fuse burnt out
A thermal fuse is a built-in safety component of any electrical gadget. The purpose of the thermal fuse is to prevent fires. Dryers have an upper limit temperature cutoff designed to prevent the dryer from causing a fire accident.
This upper limit temperature is usually slightly lower than the thermal fuse’s burnout temperature. On top of the three thermostats installed in the dryer, the thermal fuse acts as the final defense line when overheating occurs.
In most cases, dryer overheating is usually a result of a blocked air vent. This means all hot air remains trapped in the dryer, causing it to overheat rapidly, especially if it is operating at maximum heat.
Should the thermostats fail to regulate the temperature, the excess heat will ultimately cause the thermal fuse to blow. Check the blower wheel to ensure it is not broken or clogged. Then remove ling build-up in the drum’s rears and the dryer vent. Then replace the broken fuse and the dryer thermostats.
How do I run a diagnostic on my Samsung dryer?
The Vent Blockage automatically detects and reports any blockages or problems affecting the dryer’s exhaust ducts. You should run this test when the dryer is installed and ensure your dryer vents and ducts are lint-free every once in a while.
However, not all Samsung dryer models have this feature. You can confirm whether your dryer has this feature by looking at the user manual.
How to run a Vent Blockage Test
- Let your dryer cool down fast if you have just used It before running the test.
- For your first vent test immediately after installation, run the AIR FLUFF cycle first for a few minutes to reduce internal temperature.
- Ensure the dryer drum is empty as the test will not give accurate results if it has laundry. Then close the dryer door.
- Press the power button, then press and hold the Adjust Time Up + Dry Level until InS or In appears on display.
- In some dryers, you may have to press Cycle 1 + Wrinkle Prevent or Air Fluff + Wrinkle Prevent button combinations until InS or In appears on display.
- Then press the START/PAUSE button to start the vent blockage test. It typically takes 2 minutes.
- Do not open the dryer door while performing the test. If the door is open, “dc” will appear on display.
- The results will be displayed once the test is done.
- “0” or “End” means the dust system is normal, and you should hear a completion chime if the ductwork is okay. You should still clean your exhaust vent at least once or twice a year.
- If the duct system cannot exhaust properly, you will see “CLg” or “Cg” on display and hear an alarm chime. This means you need to clean your dryer’s exhaust vent.
- If “C1” or “CL1” appears, check for laundry inside the drum. Remove the laundry and then rerun the test.
- The results will remain on display for about 5 minutes. You can press the POWER button to turn off the dryer and remove the vent test code. Or wait for the dryer to turn off automatically after the 5 minutes have passed.
Running a vent Blockage test manually.
Older Samsung dryer models do not adjust the heat when the vent is clogged. If your dryer gets extremely hot after a long cycle time, chances are its vent is clogged. Lint build-up is a fire hazard which is why you should clean your dryer vent once or twice per year.
Clean vents will also make your dryer work better, leading to energy savings and shorter drying time. Newer Samsung dryers reduce heat when there is a blockage. If your dryer does not have the in-built blockage test, check your vents for blockage if the dryer appears to be emitting lower heat than set.
For the manual vent test, disconnect the exhaust vent from the dryer and run a Time Dry cycle for at least 30 seconds. (Ensure the Eco Dry setting is turned off if your dryer has this feature.) then feel the hot air inside the drum.
If the dryer is hotter with the vent off, then the exhaust vent is clogged and needs to be cleaned, or it is the wrong vent for your dryer. If your dryer is still emitting low heat after this or not emitting hot air, then there could be another issue.
Why will my Samsung dryer not turn on?
This could be a result of a tripped breaker or a loose power cord. In layman’s terms, the electric current signal has been interrupted somewhere. Open the dryer door to see if the drum light will turn on.
If the drum light doesn’t come on when you open the door, check the outlet (this applies to gas dryers only). Plugin another electronic device to see if the outlet is working. If the outlet is not working, hire a licensed electrician to fix it.
- Electric current troubleshooting
Always turn off the dryer’s circuit breaker before you start troubleshooting.
- Turn off the breaker and unplug the dryer.
Inspect the plug, cord, and outlet for burn marks and damage. If you see any burn marks or damage, hire a licensed electrician to repair the damage.
- Check if the circuit is tripped.
Wait 30 seconds, plug the dryer back in, and switch the breaker to On. Then use a multimeter to see if the current is being transmitted. Gas dryers need 15 amps, while electric dryers need 30 amps. If the circuit is tripped, consult an electrician.
Why is my Samsung dryer not drying my clothes?
Clothes not dry at the end of the sensor dry cycle
This means the dry level is too low. Adjust the dry level to a higher setting, especially when drying heavier garments like jeans or suede coats. Also, avoid mixed loads with fabrics of varying densities. Dry jeans and lighter items such as t-shirts separately.
This is because they have different drying times. The sensor will sense the t-shirts are dry and end the cycle before the jeans are dry. Also, spin your clothes to remove excess water before drying them. You should also select a longer drying time for heavier items such as a comforter to avoid damp spots.
Drying too few clothes at a time will also not get detected by the sensor. Add a minimum weight as directed in the user manual for effective drying. Lastly, check to see if the vent is clogged as the excess heat may trigger the sensor before the clothes are dry.
The dryer is not heating enough or at all.
This means that the vent is clogged, and the dryer automatically reduces the heat level, causing your clothes not to dry properly. Clean the vent and restart the drying cycle. Alternatively, your moisture sensor may be dirty, thus the lack of heat emission. Clean them to see if the issue will get fixed.
Here are other reasons your dryer is not producing enough heat;
- You have selected a cycle that is designed to run without heat, such as Eco Dry.
- Your dryer may have tripped its circuit. In this case, hire a licensed electrician to fix it.
If your dryer has just been installed and is not producing heat, there may be an installation issue. Review the installation and ensure everything was connected according to dryer requirements. Have a professional review the installation if you cannot figure out what’s the issue.
The dryer takes too long to dry or is not hot enough
Start by cleaning the lint filter as excess lint may be causing the dryer to retain water that is misguiding the moisture sensor. The Sensor Dry cycle is designed to run until the clothes are dry, however long that takes. If it’s taking a long time for them to dry, the most common reason is that moisture isn’t able to leave the dryer.
If this does not help, inspect your vent. A clogged vent also prevents steam from escaping from the dryer, which in turn causes the sensor to keep the dryer running. It also causes heat to get trapped, which may cause the dryer thermostats to reduce drying temperature.
Also, ensure your vent is not folded or performing poorly. To do this, you can run a vent blockage test. And clean or replace the vent if it is made from the wrong material.
Another option is to turn off the Eco Dry setting as it reduces heat output to save energy. The beginning of the cycle doesn’t use any hot air at all. This results in longer cycles, but it reduces energy consumption.
Lastly, heavier loads such as comforters will have longer dryer time, and rightly so. Bear this in mind when selecting the drying time for heavier loads. Also, avoid overloading the dryer when drying heavier fabrics and garments.
Note: If you run a vent blockage test and you get a Normal result, but the dryer is still malfunctioning, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Samsung dryer turns on or is humming but doesn’t spin
This is indicative of an underlying issue, and chances are, dryer maintenance will be required. First things first, check to see if the child lock is preventing the dryer from spinning. The Child Lock feature stops the Start button from working, so if you’re trying to start a cycle and the drum won’t spin, it could be Child Lock.
You can check by looking to see if the icon is lit. The Child Lock icon looks different in different dryer models. It may look like a baby or a lock with a smiley face. Follow manual instructions and turn off the child lock. If the child lock feature does not turn off, unplug the dryer, wait for 60-seconds and turn it back on.
Then check to see if it has an error code and refer to your user manual to see what the error code means. If this does not work, do a cycle check by performing the Time Dry test. Select Time Dry, and then touch and hold Start. If the timer counts down even though the drum isn’t spinning, it is time to get your dryer serviced.
Samsung dryer thermal fuse replacement guide
Once you realize your thermal fuse is broken. You are going to have to replace it before using the dryer again. The thermal fuse is essential as it protects your dryer from a potential fire hazard. Make sure you purchase the recommended thermal fuse for your dryer model. Only buy replacement parts from the manufacturer or genuine dryer parts sellers.
Here are the steps for replacing a thermal fuse;
Unplug the dryer or flip the circuit breaker
Always unplug your dryer before you start working on it. This will protect you from being shocked.
Disassemble the dryer
Then push the dryer away from the wall so you can access the back. Loosen the two screws at the back of the top panel’s edge and remove the top panel. Remove the control panel by carefully separating the top of the panel from the tabs along the control panel’s back.
Tilt the panel forward and remove it. Carefully set it on top of the machine and not tug the wire harness on the right side. Then remove the front panel and make sure you store the screws safely to avoid losing them.
Remove the heater element assembly
Disconnect the moisture sensor in the bottom right corner and part the wires so you can see the heater element assembly and lower bracket behind it. Then remove the lower bracket by unscrewing it. Remove the lower bracket and disconnect the heater element from the rear duct and remove the heater assembly.
Uninstall the thermal fuse
Place the thermal fuse on the dryer. Remember, it is still connected to the dryer, so do not tug on it too hard. Unscrew the wire connections and take pictures so you can reconnect them with ease once you are done.
Then unscrew the thermal fuse bracket and remove the thermal fuse. The fuse will be riveted into the small bracket so prepare to drill out the rivets. Then pull the old fuse out of the bracket.
Replace the thermal fuse
Install the fuse into the bracket while it is still clamped. Then rivet the new fuse using a pop gun. Then reassemble the heater assembly and reconnect the wires.
Reassemble the dryer’s internal and external parts.
Then reassemble the other parts of the dryer, working backward from the last piece you took out up to the first one. Ensure you have installed everything correctly and close the dryer up as it was before you begin the fuse replacement process. Then plug it in and turn it on to see if it is working.
If this process is too tedious for your liking, hire a certified professional to replace the thermal fuse.
Note: A broken thermal fuse is a warning that there is another issue. So make sure you troubleshoot and fix the other problem. Or your new thermal fuse will also break once you start using the dryer again.
The dryer won’t turn off.
It is usual for your dryer’s drum light to stay on even after you turn off the dryer. Especially in newer models, and it will automatically turn off by itself after a few minutes. However, if the drum won’t stop spinning or the panel won’t turn off when you press Power, something is off.
Start by checking to see if Wrinkle Prevent is enabled. If the feature is enabled, the dryer will keep spinning without heat and stop once you open the door.
You should see the END displayed once the cycle ends until the door is opened. The dryer will also play a sound indicating that the cycle is done. If the message does not go away or the dryer won’t turn off or stop spinning, try pressing Power.
If this does not work, unplug the dryer or turn it off at the outlet and then plug it back on or turn it on, respectively. If the dryer keeps spinning or does not turn off, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Control board motor relay stuck in on position.
When the relay is stuck in the “ON” position, it ignores the control board’s signal. As such, when you shut the dryer door, power still flows to the motor through the door switch. To determine if the motor relay is stuck, you need to unplug the dryer and inspect the relay switch manually.
Pull the dryer from the wall as you will need to access the rear. Then unscrew the control panel and inspect the control board to see if the relay has melted. If you see burn marks on the metal panel, then the relay switch is burnt, and it needs to be replaced.
Your two options would be to replace the switch, which requires a bit of soldering. Or you can replace the entire control board, which can be relatively expensive, complex, and time-consuming. If you are not able to handle these tasks, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Samsung dryer keeps running even after the clothes are dry
If your dryer keeps running after your clothes are dry, chances are the moisture sensor is not working correctly. Check to see if the moisture sensor is dirty or obstructed. At times smaller pieces of clothing such as socks may prevent the sensor from working correctly.
Also, check to see if they are covered in lint and clean the sensor bar using a Q-tip or cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Also, check if you set a more extended drying period than was necessary. A Manual Dry cycle will keep running even after the clothes are dry.
Lastly, check to see if Wrinkle Prevent or Wrinkle Release is enabled as this feature keeps turning the drum with no heat to prevent clothes from getting wrinkled. If your dryer is on Wrinkle Prevent mode, a scrolling rectangle will be displayed on the panel.
Check this too: Whirlpool Dryer Troubleshooting & How to Guide
If the dryer keeps running even when you remove the clothes or disable the wrinkle prevent feature, then hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.
Samsung dryer not working: Filter check
It is essential to remove ling build-up from your filter for your dryer to operate optimally. If your filter light is blinking when you turn it on, you should clean your dryer before using it. Ideally, you should remove lint from the lint screen before drying a new load of laundry.
Here are the necessary steps perform a filter check if the filter light is not blinking, but the dryer is still acting up;
Electric Top-Load Dryer Filter Check
- Open the dryer door to locate the lint filter.
- Then grab the Lint Filter Handle and pull the lint filter out of the dryer.
- Open the lint filter cover and discard the lint. Then replace the lint filter.
- Ensure you insert it in the correct direction when replacing it.
- Close the dryer door to proceed.
- Press the Start/Pause button to restart the dryer. The Filter Check display will automatically turn off.
Samsung dryer Wrinkle Prevent is not working.
Check to see if the Wrinkle Prevent or Wrinkle Release is disabled and enable it following the instructions in your dryer’s user manual. If the function does not work even when enabled, hire a certified professional to fix the dryer or contact Samsung Support Center.