How to Reset a Samsung Dishwasher – Quick Troubleshooting Guide
Samsung dishwasher not working? Follow this step-by-step reset checklist to fix error codes, stuck cycles, and control panel issues.
DIY
2/2/20262 min read
Start Here: Quick Diagnosis
Reset your Samsung dishwasher if you notice:
Dishwasher won’t start
Cycle stuck or frozen
Error code on the display
Buttons not responding
Dishwasher stopped mid-cycle
Power outage or voltage fluctuation
If any of these apply, follow the checklist below in order.
Step-by-Step Reset Checklist
✅ Step 1: Power Reset (Works on All Models)
This is the most reliable reset method for Samsung dishwashers.
What to do:
Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker
Leave power off for 5–10 minutes
Turn the breaker back on
Open and close the door
Start a new wash cycle
Most temporary glitches clear at this stage.
✅ Step 2: Cancel and Drain Reset
Use this if the dishwasher is stuck mid-cycle or holding water.
What to do:
Press Cancel or Start/Cancel
Close the door fully
Wait 1–2 minutes while the dishwasher drains
Once draining stops, the unit is reset.
✅ Step 3: Control Panel Reset (Select Models)
Some Samsung dishwashers allow a soft reset.
What to do:
Turn the dishwasher on
Press and hold the Start button for 3–5 seconds
Release and wait for the display to clear
Select a fresh cycle
If the display resets, the process worked.
How Long a Samsung Dishwasher Reset Takes
Power reset: 5–10 minutes
Cancel and drain: 2 minutes
Control panel reset: Under 1 minute
Do not interrupt the dishwasher while it is draining or restarting.
Reset vs Error Codes (Important)
Samsung dishwashers will not clear error codes unless the underlying issue is fixed.
Common examples:
5C / SC – Drain problem
4C – Water supply issue
LC / LE – Leak detected
Resetting alone will not solve these until the root cause is addressed.
When Resetting Will NOT Help
Do not reset the dishwasher if:
Water is leaking onto the floor
A burning smell is present
The breaker keeps tripping
Loud grinding or motor noises occur
Turn off power and seek professional service.
Final Verdict
For a Samsung dishwasher, a power reset fixes most issues caused by control board glitches. If the same problem keeps returning, the dishwasher likely has a mechanical or sensor-related fault.
Maintenance Tip:
Sudden power cuts are a common cause of Samsung dishwasher errors. A surge protector can help prevent repeat issues.
Read More:
Why is my dishwasher not draining?
How to reset dishwasher after power outage
How to clean dishwasher filter
Dishwasher not drying? Easy fixes