How to Reset a Samsung Dishwasher: Knowing the Different Methods

Why should you know how to reset a Samsung dishwasher? This knowledge can help you better understand your device and be prepared to deal with it when there is an issue.

You can effectively deal with possible issues or obstacles when you understand your device. What are the common causes of dishwasher issues? How do we deal with them?

What Is the Most Common Problem with Samsung Dishwashers?

Samsung dishwashers are known for their tough construction and solid quality. However, it’s quite common to have some problems. Some of the most common issues are:

how to reset a samsung dishwasher

  • The dishwasher doesn’t clean dishes. This is caused by dirty filter assembly or clogged spray arms. You have the option to have a DIY work or to hire a pro. There are many sources (such as YouTube videos) to learn about cleaning the filter or the spray arms. But you should contact a pro if you know nothing about the device.
  • Leaky dishwasher. The main culprit is highly likely the drain hose, the door seal, or the detective (water) inlet valve. These parts will become loose over time, and you may need to replace them.
  • The dishwasher doesn’t drain. The drain hose may be blocked, the flapper (of the check valve) needs replacing, or the pump is defective. It’s also possible that the filter assembly is full of food particles, leading to blockage.
  • The device won’t start. When your washer won’t start, and you start seeing Samsung dishwasher error codes, you may need to reset the device. If the device won’t start, it’s possible because of a defective control board, a faulty door latch, or a tripped circuit breaker. But if error codes start to appear on your device, then it means that you need to have it checked.

Based on my experience, resetting a Samsung dishwasher can often resolve minor issues, such as the device not starting or error codes appearing. I’ve encountered situations where a simple reset restored functionality, particularly when the control board was functioning correctly, but the dishwasher seemed unresponsive.

However, in some instances where a reset didn’t resolve the problem, further diagnosis was necessary to determine if more severe issues, like a defective pump or control board, were the cause. In such cases, repair or replacement may be unavoidable.

Your manual contains solutions to Samsung dishwasher troubleshooting. Every dishwasher comes with a user manual; reading the manual is the best way to learn about your device.

One user shared an experience where a persistent ‘LC’ error code kept appearing even after multiple resets. It turned out that a small water leak was triggering the error, which required addressing the root cause before the reset could work effectively. This highlights the importance of not just relying on a reset but also investigating potential underlying issues.

How to Reset a Samsung Dishwasher

There are two different methods to reset the dishwasher issue. The first is to cut the power, and the second is to use the reset system, a built-in method.

If you want to cut the power to the freestanding dishwashers, you need to:

  • Turn the dishwasher off
  • Unplug the cord
  • Wait for 10 minutes. Some people may leave it unplugged overnight, and that’s fine.
  • Plug the cord again. Start the device and perform a test cycle.

If you want to cut the power to the hardwired dishwashers, you need to:

  • Turn the device off
  • Go to the breaker panel
  • Turn the circuit (leading to the dishwasher) off
  • Wait for 10 minutes
  • Turn the circuit on again
  • Start the device and perform a test cycle

Read also: Dishwasher Smells Like Burning?

If you are using the built-in resetting system, you can do these:

  • Turn the dishwasher on
  • Press the Start/Reset button and hold it for 5 seconds or until you see the light on the control board is turned on.
  • Wait for around 30 minutes (60 minutes, max), so your device can complete the resetting program
  • When it turns off, you must switch it on again and perform a test cycle.
ProblemReset MethodAdditional Steps
Dishwasher not startingPress and hold the Start/Reset button for 5 secondsCheck for tripped circuit breaker or faulty door latch; ensure the door is closed tightly
Error Code “LC” appearsReset by cutting power (unplug or flip breaker)Check for water leaks; ensure the dishwasher is level and there are no blockages in the drain system
Dishwasher not drainingUnplug the dishwasher for 10 minutes, then plug back inInspect the drain hose for clogs; clean the filter assembly; ensure the pump is functioning correctly
Leaky dishwasherReset by cutting power and re-initiatingCheck and replace defective components like the door seal or inlet valve

Final Words

You don’t have to be rocket scientists to understand your Samsung dishwasher better. Once you know how to reset it, the rest is easy.

Gravatar Image
John Burns is an experienced author and expert home improvement advice. With years of practical experience in the field authored several informative articles on various aspects related to home improvement, including installation, maintenance, and repair.