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ErrBase

How to Reset a Samsung Dishwasher

Quick Answer

Before resetting, note what error code (if any) is showing on the display.

To reset a Samsung dishwasher: hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds for a soft reset that cancels the current cycle. For a full reset, hold the Power button for 5 seconds to shut down, then power back on. For a control board reset, turn off the circuit breaker for 30 seconds. The LC error code also requires draining the base pan by tilting the unit - a power reset alone will not clear LC if water is still in the pan.

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How to Reset Your Samsung Dishwasher

Samsung dishwashers have three reset levels. The soft reset (Start/Cancel, 3 seconds) clears active errors and cancels a cycle. The full power reset (Power button, 5 seconds) is needed when the machine is frozen or unresponsive. The breaker reset (30 seconds off) clears stored fault history and is required when the control board is stuck.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Error code appeared and needs to be cleared after repair40%
Machine is frozen or unresponsive to button presses24%
Cycle did not complete and machine is stuck mid-program14%
Power surge or brief power outage disrupted cycle12%
Control lock (CL) activated and machine appears dead10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Display frozen on an error code
  • Machine does not respond to any button presses
  • Display shows CL (child lock) and machine will not start
  • Cycle indicator lights stuck and machine will not advance
  • Machine stopped mid-cycle and will not resume

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Try a soft reset first

Try a soft reset first: hold the Start/Cancel button for 3 seconds. The machine should beep, drain any remaining water, and return to standby.

2

Hold the Power button for 5 seconds until the display goes dark

3

Locate the dishwasher circuit breaker in your home electrical panel

4

If display shows CL (child lock active)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset a Samsung dishwasher that is not responding?
Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds first. If there is no response, hold Power for 5 seconds to force shutdown, then restart. If still unresponsive, flip the circuit breaker off for 30 seconds.
Will resetting the Samsung dishwasher clear error codes?
Yes, most error codes clear after a reset. The exception is LC, which requires the base pan to be physically drained by tilting the unit before the sensor will reset.
How do I cancel a cycle on a Samsung dishwasher?
Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds. The machine will run a short drain cycle to remove water from the tub, then return to standby mode.
Does a Samsung dishwasher reset erase all settings?
No. A soft or hard power reset does not change programmed settings or preferences. A factory reset (if available on your model) would restore defaults, but the standard reset procedures described here do not affect saved settings.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: LCSamsung Dishwasher LC Error Code: Leak Sensor TriggeredCode: UNLOCKHow to Unlock a Samsung DishwasherCode: WONT-TURN-ONSamsung Dishwasher Won't Turn On

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor StallSamsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water SupplySamsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience RESET Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DW80R9950US, DW80R2031US, DW80T5040US, DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026