The quickest way to reset your Samsung washing machine
Most Samsung washers reset with a straightforward button combination: press and hold the Start/Pause button for three to five seconds while the machine is off. The display will flash or go blank, then show the default screen. This clears temporary errors and restarts the control board without erasing your saved cycles or settings.
If that does not work, your machine may need a power reset instead. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This forces the control board to restart completely and often fixes frozen displays or buttons that will not respond.
A third option is the drain and spin reset, used when the drum is stuck or water is trapped inside. Press Start/Pause to stop the cycle, then hold the Start/Pause button for three seconds. The machine will drain and spin out remaining water, then return to standby mode.
Key Takeaways
- Hold the Start/Pause button for three to five seconds with the machine off to reset the control board and clear error codes.
- Unplug the washer for 30 seconds and plug it back in if buttons are frozen or the display will not respond.
- Use the drain and spin reset by holding Start/Pause for three seconds if water or detergent is stuck inside the drum.
- Check your model number on the back of the machine or in your manual, because some older Samsung models use different button combinations.
- If the error code returns after a reset, the problem is likely a sensor or valve that needs professional repair.
When to use the button reset versus the power reset
The button reset (holding Start/Pause) works for most everyday problems: error codes that appear mid-cycle, the display freezing, or the machine not responding to button presses. It takes 10 seconds and does not interrupt your settings or saved cycles.
Use the power reset when the button reset fails or when the machine will not turn on at all. Unplugging for 30 seconds gives the control board time to fully discharge and restart. This is also the reset to try if you see an error code that persists after the button reset, because it clears the board's memory more completely.
The drain and spin reset is specifically for situations where water is trapped in the drum or the cycle stopped mid-wash. It empties the tub safely without running a full cycle, which saves time and water.
Finding your model number and checking your manual
Samsung washing machines vary by model year and series, and some older machines use different button combinations than newer ones. Your model number is printed on a sticker on the back of the machine, usually near the bottom. Write it down or take a photo.
Your manual will show the exact reset steps for your specific model. If you no longer have the printed manual, visit Samsung's support website, enter your model number in the search box, and read the PDF. The manual also lists what each error code means, which helps you understand whether a reset will actually fix the problem or whether you need a repair technician.
Some Samsung models from 2015 and earlier use a different sequence—for example, pressing the Temp and Spin buttons together instead of Start/Pause. Checking your manual takes two minutes and prevents you from holding the wrong button for five minutes.
What error codes mean and when a reset will not help
Samsung washers display error codes on the front panel when something goes wrong. Common codes like dE (door lock error) or UE (unbalanced load) often clear after a reset because they are temporary sensor glitches. Other codes, like OE (drain error) or IE (water inlet error), usually mean a valve or hose is actually blocked or broken, and a reset will not fix them.
If the same error code returns within a few cycles after you reset, the machine has a real hardware problem. At that point, a reset will not help, and you should contact a Samsung service technician or a local appliance repair shop. Continuing to run the machine may cause water damage or make the problem worse.
Write down the error code before you reset, so you can tell a technician exactly what happened. This saves time on the phone and helps them bring the right parts to your home.
Steps for a full power reset if buttons are completely unresponsive
If your Samsung washer will not respond to any button presses and the display is blank or frozen, a power reset is your best option. Here is the exact sequence:
- Press the power button once to turn off the machine (or wait for it to time out and turn off on its own).
- Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet. Do not use the power button—physically remove the plug from the wall.
- Wait 30 seconds. This gives the control board time to fully discharge.
- Plug the washer back into the outlet.
- Press the power button to turn the machine on. The display should light up and show the default home screen.
If the display still does not light up after this sequence, the problem is likely a blown fuse or a failed control board, and you will need a technician. Do not unplug and replug repeatedly—that will not help and may damage the outlet.
Resetting without losing your saved cycles and settings
The button reset and power reset both preserve your saved cycles, favorite settings, and any custom programs you have created. They only clear temporary errors and restart the control board's active memory.
If you want to erase everything and return the machine to factory defaults, that is a different process called a factory reset, and it requires holding multiple buttons in a specific sequence while the machine is off. Check your manual for the exact steps, because the sequence varies by model. Most people never need a factory reset unless they are troubleshooting a serious software problem or preparing the machine to sell.
A straightforward button or power reset is almost always what you want. It fixes the problem without erasing anything.
When to call a repair technician instead of resetting
Reset the machine if you see an error code, the display is frozen, or buttons are not responding. But call a technician right away if you notice water leaking from the bottom, the drum will not spin even after a reset, or the machine makes grinding or squealing noises during the cycle.
Also call a technician if the same error code returns after you reset, or if the machine will not drain water even after you use the drain and spin reset. These are signs of a broken valve, clogged hose, or failed sensor—things a reset cannot fix.
A service call usually costs between $100 and $200 for the technician to diagnose the problem, plus parts and labor if repair is needed. It is worth the cost because running a broken machine can cause water damage to your floor or walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I hold the Start/Pause button to reset?
Hold it for three to five seconds with the machine powered off. You will see the display flash or go blank, then return to the home screen. If nothing happens after five seconds, try the power reset instead—unplug for 30 seconds and plug back in.
Will resetting erase my saved cycles?
No. A button reset or power reset only clears temporary errors and restarts the control board. Your saved cycles, favorite settings, and custom programs stay in memory. A factory reset would erase them, but that is a separate process you have to intentionally start.
What if the error code comes back after I reset?
If the same code appears again within a few cycles, the machine has a hardware problem—a broken valve, clogged hose, or failed sensor. A reset will not fix it. Contact a Samsung service technician or local appliance repair shop and tell them the error code.
Can I reset my Samsung washer while it is running a cycle?
No. Stop the cycle first by pressing Start/Pause, then wait for the machine to finish draining. Once it is off, you can do a button reset or power reset. If the cycle is stuck and will not stop, unplug the machine for 30 seconds to force it to stop.
Does unplugging the washer damage it?
No. Unplugging for 30 seconds is a safe way to reset the control board and is recommended in Samsung's own troubleshooting guides. It does not harm the machine or its components.