Is your Samsung washer blinking not starting even though you have pressed the power button and selected a cycle? This common issue can range from a simple setting error to a mechanical failure, leaving your laundry wet and your patience tested. In this guide, we will explore the technical reasons behind this malfunction and provide professional steps to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Why Is My Samsung Washer Blinking Not Starting?
When you encounter a Samsung washer blinking not starting, the machine is often trying to communicate a specific error state that prevents the wash cycle from engaging safely. Unlike a complete power failure, a blinking light or display indicates that the Control board has power but has detected a fault in one of the peripheral components.
The blinking pattern or code typically points to safety mechanisms like the Door latch assembly or operational sensors like the Water level sensor. By understanding the sequence of these lights—or reading the digital error code—you can isolate the failing component without immediately calling for professional repair.
1. The Child Lock Feature
Before disassembling any part of the machine, check the display for the Child Lock indicator. This is one of the most frequent reasons a user finds their Samsung washer blinking not starting.
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When Child Lock is active, the control panel ignores all input to prevent accidental operation by children. You might see a padlock icon or a baby face symbol on the display, and the lights may flash if you attempt to press buttons.
- Solution: To deactivate it, look for the button combination marked with a lock icon (often “Temp” and “Rinse” or “Spin” and “Soil Level”) and hold them simultaneously for 3 to 5 seconds until the light turns off.
2. Performing a Hard Reset
Modern appliances are controlled by complex electronics that can sometimes experience software glitches. A Hard reset is the quickest way to clear transient errors from the Control board.
- Step 1: Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
- Step 2: Press and hold the power button for roughly 30 seconds while the machine is unplugged. This discharges any residual electricity in the capacitors.
- Step 3: Plug the washer back in and attempt to start a cycle.
3. Door Latch Assembly and Lid Switch Issues
For the machine to start filling with water or spinning, the central processor must receive a “closed” signal from the door.
- Front Load Washer: These units rely on a Door latch assembly that physically locks the door. If the latch is broken, jammed, or electrically faulty, the “Door Lock” light may blink, or you may see a “dE” or “dS” error code. If the latch clicks repeatedly but the cycle does not start, the assembly likely needs replacement.
- Top Load Washer: These utilize a Lid switch. If the plastic striker on the lid is broken or the magnetic sensor is misaligned, the washer will not detect that the lid is safe to lock.
Testing: You can test these switches for continuity using a multimeter. If there is no continuity when the latch is manually engaged, the part is defective.
4. Water Level Sensor and Pressure Switch
The Water level sensor, also known as the Pressure switch, tells the Control board how much water is in the drum. If this sensor fails, the washer may think the tub is already full (causing it to drain immediately) or empty (preventing it from starting the agitation phase).
If your washer blinks an “IE” or “1E” code, it indicates a pressure sensor communication error.
- Inspection: Check the small air tube connecting the drum to the Pressure switch. If this tube is clogged with sediment or has a hole, the sensor cannot read the air pressure correctly.
- Fix: Clear the tube of debris. If the tube is clear and the error persists, the switch itself likely requires replacement.
5. Drain Pump Blockages
A Samsung washer blinking not starting can also be caused by a refusal to drain previous water. If the Control board detects water in the drum at the start of a cycle (when it expects an empty tub), it may halt operation.
- Diagnosis: Open the small debris filter door at the bottom front of your Front load washer.
- Action: Unscrew the filter and check for coins, lint, or small socks that may be jamming the Drain pump impeller. If the impeller cannot spin, the washer will not start a new cycle for safety reasons.
6. Drive Motor and Motor Sensor
While less common for a “blinking not starting” scenario than door issues, the Drive motor can cause specific errors like “3E”. This usually points to a Hall sensor fault or a connection issue between the motor and the main board.
- Symptoms: You might hear the relays click and the pump run, but the drum refuses to turn, followed by blinking lights.
- Resolution: Check the wiring harness connecting to the motor. Loose connections due to vibration are a common culprit.
7. Using the Smart Care App
If your machine has a digital display, it likely supports the Smart Care app. This diagnostic tool allows you to use your smartphone camera to scan the error code sequence on the washer’s LED display.
- How it works: The washer displays a pattern of rotating segments. The app interprets this visual code and provides a specific diagnosis (e.g., “Door is open,” “Drain filter clogged”). This is significantly more accurate than guessing based on blinking lights alone.
When to Suspect the Control Board
If you have verified the Child Lock is off, performed a Hard reset, and tested the peripheral components (door latch, drain pump, inlet valves) without success, the issue may lie with the Control board itself.
The main PCB (Printed Circuit Board) acts as the brain of the washer. Signs of a failed board include:
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- Visible burn marks on the circuit board.
- The washer blinking erratically without a specific pattern.
- The display turning on but becoming unresponsive to any button presses.
Replacing a control board is a more advanced repair and ensures that the specific part number matches your washer’s model exactly.
Conclusion
Resolving a Samsung washer blinking not starting requires a systematic approach. Start with the simplest user errors like Child Lock and proceed to hardware checks involving the Door latch assembly, Lid switch, and Water level sensor. By utilizing tools like the Smart Care app and understanding the function of the Control board, you can often save the cost of a service call and get your laundry routine back on track.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I turn off the Child Lock if my Samsung washer is blinking?
To deactivate the Child Lock, look for a padlock icon or a baby face symbol on your display panel. You must press and hold the two buttons associated with this feature—typically “Temp” and “Rinse” or “Spin” and “Soil Level”—simultaneously for 3 to 5 seconds. The light should turn off, and the control panel will become responsive again.
How do I perform a hard reset on my Samsung washer?
If your washer is experiencing a software glitch, unplug it from the wall outlet. While the machine is unplugged, press and hold the Power button for approximately 30 seconds to drain any remaining electricity from the capacitors. Plug the washer back in and attempt to select a new cycle.
What do the error codes “dE,” “dS,” or “1E” mean?
“dE” or “dS” codes usually indicate a Door Error, meaning the machine does not detect that the door or lid is securely closed. This is often caused by a faulty door latch assembly or lid switch. An “IE” or “1E” code indicates a water level sensor (pressure switch) error, which happens when the machine cannot accurately determine how much water is in the drum.
Can a clogged drain filter prevent my washer from starting?
Yes. If the control board detects that water from a previous cycle has not drained properly, it may prevent a new cycle from starting as a safety precaution. On front-load models, check the small debris filter door at the bottom front of the unit. Clean out any lint, coins, or debris that might be jamming the drain pump impeller.
How can I use my phone to diagnose why my washer is blinking?
If your washer is compatible, you can use the Samsung Smart Care app. When the washer displays a specific blinking pattern or a series of rotating segments, open the app and use your smartphone camera to scan the display. The app will interpret the visual code and provide a specific diagnosis and recommended solution.
