The basic startup process for a Samsung dishwasher
Starting a Samsung dishwasher involves loading your dishes, adding detergent, selecting a cycle, and pressing the start button — but the exact steps depend on whether your model has a traditional control panel or a digital touch screen. Most Samsung dishwashers follow the same general sequence: load the racks, add detergent to the dispenser, close the door firmly until it latches, select your wash cycle using the buttons or display, and press Start. Some newer models require you to press Start twice or hold it for a few seconds.
The most common mistake is not closing the door all the way. If the door does not latch completely, the dishwasher will not start, and you may see an error code on the display. You should hear a click when the door is fully closed.
Key Takeaways
- Load your dishes into the racks, place detergent in the dispenser cup, and close the door until you hear it latch before attempting to start.
- Select a wash cycle using your model's control panel or touch screen, then press the Start button — some models require you to press it twice or hold it for three seconds.
- If the dishwasher does not start, check that the door is fully closed, the control lock is not on, and the unit has power.
- Samsung dishwashers with Wi-Fi can also be started remotely through the SmartThings app, though the door must still be closed and latched first.
Loading dishes and adding detergent
Before you start the cycle, load your dishes into the upper and lower racks. Place larger items like plates and pots in the lower rack and smaller items like glasses and bowls in the upper rack. Make sure nothing blocks the spray arms from rotating — the spray arms are the rotating parts inside the dishwasher that distribute water during the cycle.
Open the detergent dispenser, which is usually located on the inside of the door. Pour liquid or powder detergent into the main wash compartment (the larger section) until it reaches the fill line. If your model has a pre-wash compartment (a smaller section), you can add a small amount of detergent there as well, though this is optional. Close the dispenser door firmly until it clicks.
Selecting a wash cycle on your Samsung model
Samsung dishwashers offer several wash cycles designed for different types of loads. The Normal cycle is suitable for everyday dishes and mixed loads. The Heavy cycle is for heavily soiled pots and pans. The Delicate cycle uses lower water temperature and pressure for glassware and fine china. The Quick cycle runs for a shorter time and uses less water for lightly soiled dishes.
To select a cycle, look at your control panel. If your model has physical buttons, press the button labeled with the cycle name. If your model has a digital touch screen, tap the cycle you want. The selected cycle will light up or display on the screen. You can also adjust settings like temperature or water level before pressing Start, depending on your model's features.
Pressing the start button and what happens next
Once you have selected your cycle, press the Start button. On most Samsung models, the Start button is clearly labeled and located on the right side of the control panel. Some models require you to press it once; others require you to press it twice or hold it for three seconds. Check your model's manual if you are unsure — the manual is usually available as a PDF on Samsung's website if you search for your model number.
After you press Start, the door will lock automatically, and the cycle will begin. You will hear water filling the tub and the spray arms starting to rotate. The display will show the remaining time for the cycle. Do not open the door during the cycle, as this will interrupt the wash and may cause water to spill out.
Troubleshooting when your dishwasher will not start
If you press Start and nothing happens, first check that the door is fully closed. Open the door and push it closed again until you hear a clear click. The door latch is a safety feature — the dishwasher will not start if the door is not completely sealed.
Next, check whether the control lock is on. Some Samsung models have a lock feature that prevents accidental starts, especially useful if you have children in the home. Look for a button labeled "Control Lock" or a lock icon on the display. If it is lit up or highlighted, press and hold it for three seconds to turn it off. Then try pressing Start again.
If the dishwasher still will not start, make sure the unit has power. Check that the circuit breaker for the dishwasher has not tripped, and verify that the outlet is working by plugging in another appliance. If you see an error code on the display, write down the code and search for it in your model's manual or on Samsung's support website — error codes tell you what part of the dishwasher needs attention.
Starting your dishwasher remotely with SmartThings
If your Samsung dishwasher has Wi-Fi capability, you can start it remotely using the SmartThings app on your phone. read the SmartThings app, create an account, and add your dishwasher to the app by following the on-screen instructions. Once your dishwasher is connected, you can open the app and tap the Start button to begin a cycle from anywhere.
Keep in mind that the door must still be closed and latched before you press Start through the app — the app cannot start the dishwasher if the door is open. This feature is useful if you want to start the dishwasher while you are away from home, but you need to have loaded it and selected a cycle before you leave.
When to call a professional
If you have checked the door latch, turned off the control lock, confirmed the power is on, and the dishwasher still will not start, the issue may be with the control board, the door latch mechanism, or the start button itself. These are internal components that require professional repair. Contact a Samsung service technician or a local appliance repair company to diagnose the problem.
If the dishwasher starts but does not fill with water, does not drain, or displays an error code that you cannot find in the manual, these are also signs that professional service is needed. Attempting to repair these issues yourself can damage the dishwasher or create a safety hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Samsung dishwasher require me to press Start twice?
Some Samsung models use a two-step start process as a safety feature to prevent accidental set up. The first press confirms your cycle selection, and the second press actually begins the cycle. Check your model's manual to see if this applies to your unit.
Can I start the dishwasher if the door is not completely closed?
No. The door must be fully closed and latched for the dishwasher to start. If the door is not sealed, the control panel will not respond to the Start button. Push the door closed until you hear a click, then try again.
What does the control lock do, and how do I turn it off?
The control lock prevents the dishwasher from starting accidentally, which is useful in homes with young children. To turn it off, press and hold the Control Lock button for three seconds. The lock icon will disappear from the display, and you will be able to start the dishwasher normally.
Is it safe to open the dishwasher door during a cycle?
You can open the door to pause the cycle, but water may spill out if you open it too quickly. If you need to add a dish you forgot, open the door slowly and carefully. The cycle will resume when you close the door again.
What should I do if the dishwasher starts but does not fill with water?
Check that the water inlet valve is not clogged and that the water supply line is connected and turned on. If water is reaching the dishwasher but it is not filling the tub, the inlet valve or control board may need professional repair.