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How to Reset a Samsung Washer: Power Cycle, Wi-Fi & Model Options

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How to Reset a Samsung Washer: Power Cycle, Wi-Fi & Model Options

This guide walks you through resetting your Samsung washer, covering the basic power cycle, Wi-Fi connection reset, and model-specific reset options. You’ll learn the exact steps to clear temporary glitches, reconnect to your network, and restore factory settings when needed. Before starting, check your washer’s model number (usually on a sticker inside the door or on the back) and have your Wi-Fi password handy if you plan to reconnect.

What You’ll Need

  • Your Samsung washer’s model number (for model-specific steps)
  • Wi-Fi network name and password (if resetting Wi-Fi)
  • Access to your home’s circuit breaker or a grounded outlet (for power cycle)
  • SmartThings app installed on your phone (for Wi-Fi setup)

Step-by-Step

1. Power Cycle (Basic Reset)

  1. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet. If the plug is hard to reach, turn off the dedicated circuit breaker for the washer.
  2. Wait at least 60 seconds. This allows the internal capacitors to discharge and clears the control board’s temporary memory.
  3. Plug the washer back in (or turn the breaker back on).
  4. Open and close the door firmly to wake the control panel.
  5. Press the Power button to turn the washer on. The display should light up normally.

2. Reset Wi-Fi Connection

  1. Ensure your washer is plugged in and powered on.
  2. Press and hold the Temperature and Spin Speed buttons simultaneously for about 3 seconds. On some models, it’s the Delay End and Pre Wash buttons. Check your user manual for the exact combination.
  3. Look for a Wi-Fi icon on the display. It should blink or turn off, indicating the Wi-Fi module is resetting.
  4. Open the SmartThings app on your phone. Go to Devices, tap Add Device, and select Washer.
  5. Follow the in-app prompts to enter your Wi-Fi password and complete the connection. The washer will display a confirmation when connected.

3. Model-Specific Options

Different Samsung washer models have unique reset procedures. Here are the most common ones:

Front-Load Washers (e.g., WF45 series)

  1. Press Power to turn the washer off.
  2. Press and hold Soil Level and Options simultaneously for 5 seconds.
  3. Release the buttons when the display shows tESt or a similar code.
  4. Press Power again to exit test mode and reset the control board.

Top-Load Washers (e.g., WA50 series)

  1. Turn the washer off.
  2. Press and hold Spin Speed and Water Level together for 3 seconds.
  3. Release when the display shows tESt.
  4. Press Power to exit test mode.

Factory Reset (All Models)

  1. Unplug the washer for 10 minutes.
  2. While unplugged, press and hold the Power button for 5 seconds to drain residual power.
  3. Plug the washer back in.
  4. Within 30 seconds, press and hold Temperature and Spin Speed (or the model-specific pair) for 5 seconds.
  5. Wait for the display to flash or show 0. This indicates a full factory reset.

Common Mistakes

  • Not waiting long enough during power cycle – less than 60 seconds may not clear the memory.
  • Holding the wrong buttons – using a combination meant for a different model can trigger test modes or do nothing.
  • Skipping the Wi-Fi reset – if the washer was previously connected to a different network, you must reset the Wi-Fi module before reconnecting.
  • Interrupting the reset – pressing extra buttons or opening the door during the process can cancel it.
  • Not checking the circuit breaker – if the washer has no power, the breaker may be tripped, not the washer.

Tips

  • Write down your washer’s model number and keep it near the machine for quick reference.
  • If the Wi-Fi reset fails, move your router closer to the washer temporarily to rule out signal issues.
  • After a factory reset, you’ll need to reconfigure all settings, including language, sound, and Wi-Fi.
  • Take a photo of your current settings before resetting so you can restore them if needed.
  • Use the SmartThings app to check for firmware updates after reconnecting – updates can fix persistent bugs.

Troubleshooting

  • Washer won’t turn on after reset: Check the outlet with another device. If the outlet works, inspect the power cord for damage. If the cord is fine, the control board may be faulty – contact Samsung support.
  • Wi-Fi won’t reconnect: Restart your router, then repeat the Wi-Fi reset. Ensure your phone is on the same 2.4 GHz network (Samsung washers only support 2.4 GHz). If the washer still won’t connect, try a factory reset.
  • Display shows an error code after reset: Look up the code in your manual. Common codes like 4C (water supply) or dE (door) often require a simple fix like checking the hoses or closing the door properly.
  • Reset buttons don’t respond: Make sure the washer is in standby mode (not running a cycle). If it’s mid-cycle, cancel the cycle first.
  • Washer keeps resetting itself: This could indicate a faulty control board or a wiring issue. Unplug the washer and contact a qualified technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I reset my Samsung washer?

Only when you experience issues like unresponsive controls, Wi-Fi drops, or error codes. A power cycle once a month can help maintain performance, but it’s not necessary.

Will a reset erase my custom wash cycles?

A power cycle or Wi-Fi reset will not erase your custom cycles. Only a factory reset will restore all settings to default, including custom cycles.

Can I reset my Samsung washer without unplugging it?

Yes, you can perform a soft reset by holding the Power button for 5 seconds. However, unplugging is more effective for clearing all memory.

Why is my Samsung washer not connecting to Wi-Fi after reset?

Common causes include using a 5 GHz network, incorrect password entry, or the washer being too far from the router. Ensure you’re on 2.4 GHz and try again.

What does the ‘tESt’ mode do on my washer?

Test mode runs diagnostic checks on components like the motor, heater, and sensors. It’s useful for troubleshooting but should be exited promptly to avoid leaving the washer in a non-standard state.

Is there a way to reset the washer’s child lock?

Yes, press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds to deactivate it. If that doesn’t work, a power cycle will clear it.

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