A dishwasher can be a great convenience in the kitchen, but it can be frustrating when it refuses to turn off. If you have a Samsung dishwasher and are having trouble with it not shutting off, you can try a few things before calling in a professional. In this article, we will take a look at some of the common causes of a Samsung dishwasher not turning off and how to fix them.
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Common Causes
A Samsung dishwasher that won’t turn off can be frustrating and could indicate a problem with the unit. The most common reason a Samsung dishwasher won’t turn off is that the leak sensor has detected moisture, and the dishwasher is perpetually trying to drain itself to correct the issue.
In rare cases, a faulty control board, timer motor, heating rod, or turbidity sensor could also cause this problem.
How to Fix Samsung Dishwasher Not Shutting Off
Fortunately, we have some solutions that you can try to fix this issue. Make sure to try each solution one by one until you find the one that works for you.
Fix 1: Check for Leakage Issues
One of the most common causes of a Samsung dishwasher not turning off is due to a leak. If the dishwasher sensor detects moisture, it will try to drain itself continuously, preventing it from turning off. This moisture can be caused by a leak, improper installation, leftover moisture from the installation, or all of the above.
To fix this issue, the first thing you should do is do an inspection and see if you can find any actual leaks, as those would be the most important to fix. If you find any, follow the dishwasher leaks guide to fix the issue.
If you can’t find enough moisture to identify the source of a leak, then look for the leakage error in the error code or blinking lights guides (or whichever error your dishwasher is currently displaying).
They will guide you through the next steps to clear the error. If this has been happening since installation, check back with the installer.
If you continue to struggle with trying to clear the error, and the dishwasher has been doing this since it was installed, this indicates that there is something wrong with the dishwasher’s installation.
Fix 2: Check for Error Code
One of the things to do when troubleshooting a dishwasher is to check for error codes. Look for leakage error codes or blinking lights on your dishwasher. You can check the dishwasher manual for instructions on how to proceed to resolve the issue.
Fix 3: Sanitize Cycle Issues
If you have selected the Sanitize cycle, the dishwasher may not turn off automatically at the end of the cycle. The display will stay on indefinitely until the door is opened to alert you of the potential release of steam and heat when you open the door.
If you are using a sanitizing cycle, open the door, and the cycle will end. Once the door is opened, the display will stay on for another 10 minutes before finally turning off. You can also turn the display off at any time by pressing the Power button.
Fix 4: Hard Reset your Dishwasher
Additionally, you can also try a hard reset by pressing and holding the power button for 10-15 seconds while the dishwasher is unplugged. This can help to clear any residual power in the system and reset the control board.
If the issue persists even after a reset, it may indicate a faulty control board. In this case, you may need to replace the control board. You can contact the manufacturer or a professional appliance repair service for assistance. Remember to always unplug your dishwasher before attempting any repairs or inspections to avoid electric shock.
Fix 5: Faulty Timer Motor
The timer motor is responsible for advancing the dishwasher through each cycle. If it is faulty, the dishwasher may not turn off automatically. You can test your timer motor using an ohmmeter. If the reading is beyond the appropriate level, it’s damaged and needs to be replaced.
If you’re confident enough, you can replace it yourself or call a technician for help. Here’s how to check for a faulty timer motor:
- Identify the location of the timer motor in your Samsung dishwasher by consulting the manual.
- Unscrew and remove the outer control panel.
- Open the dishwasher door and take off the panel.
- Locate the timer motor and remove the two wires connected to the terminals. Make sure you remember their position to reinstall them later.
- Set your multitester to X1000 and touch one probe to the terminal.
- Check the reading on the tester. It should be between 2,000 to 3,000 ohms. If the reading falls outside this range, you will need to replace the timer motor.
You can purchase a new timer motor that matches your Samsung dishwasher model. Disconnect the old timer motor from the plug and install the new one. Connect the wires correctly and reattach the panels by screwing them into place. Once you have replaced the timer motor, check if your dishwasher now operates as expected.
Fix 6: Check for Damages on the Heating Component
The heating component, also known as the metal rod, is responsible for heating the water in the dishwasher. If it is damaged, the dishwasher may not turn off automatically. Check the metal rod for continuity using a multitester. If the heating element is damaged, remove it and replace the metal rod with a new one.
Fix 7: Check the Turbidity Sensor
The turbidity sensor is responsible for detecting the level of soil in the water. If it is damaged, the dishwasher may not turn off automatically. Locate the turbidity sensor and inspect it for damage. Replace the sensor if necessary.
To test the heating element for continuity:
- Begin by removing the lower rack to access the metal rod located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
- After removing the heating element, set it aside and rotate the dial to the lowest setting for ohms of resistance if you are using an analog tester.
- Touch both probes and turn the needle to zero.
- Next, touch both terminals of the heating element using the probes, and if the reading is between 0 – 50 ohms, then the rod has continuity. However, if the needle does not move significantly or at all, then the heating element is damaged and needs replacement.
If the metal rod is not the issue, it could be a damaged thermistor causing the problem. To replace the thermistor:
- Start by unplugging your dishwasher and turning off the water supply valve.
- Next, unscrew the lower access panel and disconnect the water supply line from the inlet valve.
- Remove the cover from the junction box and disconnect the wires, then unstrain and remove the strain relief nut from the box.
- Detach the drain hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain.
- Now, let the hose through the cabinet hole and unscrew the dishwasher from the cabinet.
- Slowly pull out the dishwasher.
- Once it’s out, unscrew the right side access panel, then unscrew the thermistor and pull it out from the housing unit.
- Finally, remove the damaged thermistor by disconnecting the wires, and install the new one.
If you are unsure about what you are doing, it’s best to seek help from a professional.
Final Words
In conclusion, a Samsung dishwasher that won’t turn off can be caused by a range of issues, including a leak, a faulty control board, a faulty timer motor, a faulty heating rod, or a faulty turbidity sensor. To fix the problem, start by checking for leaks and error codes. If the issue persists, try resetting the dishwasher or testing the components using the appropriate tools. If you continue to struggle, contact a professional installer or Samsung support for further assistance.