What a reset does and when you need one

A reset clears your Samsung dishwasher's memory and returns it to factory settings. This stops error codes, fixes cycles that won't start, clears stuck buttons, and resolves display problems. A reset does not drain the water inside or repair broken parts—it only restarts the control board.

Reset your dishwasher when you see an error code that won't go away, when a cycle starts but won't run, when buttons don't respond, or when the display freezes. If water is leaking, the door won't latch, or the spray arms don't spin, a reset will not fix those problems and you should contact a repair technician instead.

Key Takeaways

  • The most common reset is holding the Start button for three to five seconds until the display goes blank, then waiting 30 seconds before using the dishwasher again.
  • If the Start button reset does not work, turn off power at the breaker for five minutes, then turn it back on.
  • Some Samsung models have a dedicated Reset button on the control panel—check your manual or the inside of the door edge for its location.
  • After any reset, run a short cycle with no dishes to confirm the dishwasher is working before washing your dishes.
  • If an error code returns after a reset, the dishwasher likely has a sensor or mechanical problem that requires professional repair.

Reset using the Start button

This is the fastest method and works on most Samsung models. Open the dishwasher door and locate the Start button on the control panel—it is usually on the right side of the buttons. Press and hold the Start button for three to five seconds without releasing. The display will go blank or show a brief message.

Release the button and close the door. Wait 30 seconds without opening it or pressing anything. The dishwasher has now reset to factory settings. Open the door again and check that the display is clear and no error codes are showing. You can now run a cycle normally.

Reset by turning off the power

If the Start button reset does not work, or if your dishwasher is unresponsive, cut power to the unit at the circuit breaker. Locate your home's electrical panel and find the breaker labeled for the dishwasher—it is usually a 15 or 20 amp breaker. Switch it to the OFF position.

Wait five minutes. This gives the control board time to fully discharge. Switch the breaker back to ON. The dishwasher will restart and reset its memory. Wait another 30 seconds before opening the door or pressing any buttons. Check the display to confirm no error codes are showing.

If you cannot locate the breaker or are unsure which one controls the dishwasher, unplug it from the outlet under the sink instead—though this is less common on built-in models. Wait five minutes, then plug it back in.

Finding and using a dedicated Reset button

Some Samsung dishwasher models have a separate Reset button rather than using the Start button. This button is usually located on the control panel itself, or sometimes on the inside edge of the door frame. Check your user manual for the exact location on your model.

If you have a Reset button, press it once and hold for three seconds. The display will respond—either going blank, showing a message, or the lights will flash. Release the button and wait 30 seconds. The reset is complete.

If you do not have your manual, you can find it online by searching "Samsung [your model number] manual." The model number is on a sticker inside the door frame or on the side wall of the tub.

What to do if the error code returns

If the same error code appears again after a reset, the dishwasher has detected a real problem with a sensor, valve, or motor—not just a software glitch. Common error codes include IE (water inlet issue), OE (drain problem), and UE (unbalanced load). A second reset will not fix these.

Write down the error code and search for it in your manual or on Samsung's support website to understand what part may be failing. At this point, contact a repair technician or Samsung customer service. Attempting to run the dishwasher repeatedly with an error code can cause water damage or worsen the problem.

Testing the dishwasher after a reset

After resetting, run a short cycle with the dishwasher empty before washing dishes. This confirms the reset worked and that no error codes return during operation. Select a quick wash or rinse cycle—usually 20 to 30 minutes—and let it run to completion.

Listen for normal sounds: water filling, the spray arms rotating, and water draining. If the cycle completes without error codes and the display is clear, the reset was successful. You can now load dishes and run normal cycles.

If an error code appears during this test cycle, note it and do not run the dishwasher again until you have contacted a repair technician. Running it repeatedly may cause water to leak or damage internal parts.

Avoiding the need for a reset

Most resets are caused by power surges, interrupted cycles, or water supply problems. Protect your dishwasher by using a surge protector on the outlet if it is plugged in, and by not opening the door during a cycle unless absolutely necessary. If your water pressure is very low or very high, this can trigger error codes—check with a plumber if you suspect this.

Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub monthly and rinse the spray arms to prevent clogs that can interrupt cycles. If you lose power during a cycle, wait for power to return and then reset the dishwasher before running it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a reset erase my saved cycles or settings?

Yes. A reset returns the dishwasher to factory defaults, so any custom cycles or delayed start times you programmed will be erased. Your saved preferences for water temperature or soil level will also reset to the standard settings.

How long does a reset take?

The reset itself takes three to five seconds if you use the Start button method, or five minutes if you use the breaker. After resetting, wait 30 seconds before using the dishwasher. The entire process takes less than 10 minutes.

Can I reset the dishwasher while it is running a cycle?

Yes, you can stop a cycle and reset at any time. Open the door to stop the cycle, then perform the reset using the Start button or breaker method. The dishwasher will drain any water inside when you open the door, so this is safe to do.

What if the display is completely black and won't turn on?

Turn off the breaker for five minutes, then turn it back on. If the display still does not light up, the control board or power supply may be damaged. Contact a repair technician—this is not a software issue a reset can fix.

Do I need to reset after a power outage?

Not always. If the dishwasher was in the middle of a cycle when power went out, reset it before running it again to clear any incomplete cycle data. If it was off when the power went out, you do not need to reset.