Where is the heating element located in a Samsung washing machine?

If you suspect damage to your washing machine's heating element, it needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible. To do this, you need to gain access to the heating element. Which side of the machine should you approach to find the part? Let's find out where the heating element is located in the machine, how to inspect it, test it, and, if necessary, replace it.

We are looking for a heating element

To remove the heating element from a Samsung, it is not enough to simply remove the back panel, as is done, for example, in Indesit or LG machines. Most Samsung models have a heating element located at the front, making the removal process somewhat more complicated. The front panel of the machine contains the control panel, dispenser, and access door. All components will need to be removed, which will take more time than unscrewing a few bolts from the rear panel.

However, this arrangement has its advantages. During work, you won't have to move the machine away from the wall or disconnect the machine from the water supply or sewer.

So, having figured out the location of the heating element in a Samsung washing machine, it's important to understand how to remove it. The procedure is as follows:

• de-energize the equipment;
• Unscrew the debris filter to collect any water remaining in the system;
• remove the powder receptacle (the part can be easily removed by pressing the button located inside the tray);
• unscrew the screws that were located under the dispenser;
• Unscrew the bolt located on the control panel;
• Place the panel, without removing it from the body, on top of the machine;

The control panel must be moved very carefully so as not to damage the wiring.

• unscrew 3 more bolts located under the removed panel;
• open the hatch door;
• Use a slotted screwdriver to hook the clamp that secures the cuff,
• tuck the outer edge of the sealing rubber into the drum;
• remove the lower "false" panel by loosening the fasteners.

After these steps, the front panel of the washing machine will be held in place by only a pair of hooks. To remove the front panel, grasp its bottom and pull the panel upward. Be careful not to over-tighten it; remove the panel carefully to avoid disconnecting the locking device wiring. You only need to slightly push the front panel back to access the heating element.

Afterwards, you can move the control panel downwards to prevent it from falling off the top cover during further manipulation. This completes the preparation for diagnosing the heating element.

The heating element is located in the washing machine directly under the drum. Don't rush into replacing the part; check the heating element first. Only after confirming that it's faulty should you install a new element.

Testing the part

As mentioned earlier, the first step is to diagnose the heating element. It's possible that the heating element is working properly, but the water isn't reaching the desired temperature due to a faulty control module. To check the heater you will need a special device – a multimeter, or in other words, a tester.

The diagnostic algorithm will be as follows:

• set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode;
• Disconnect the wires from the heating element and thermostat contacts (the thermistor is located directly on the heater). It's important to remove the wiring carefully to avoid disturbing the wiring diagram. Before disconnecting the wires, it's recommended to photograph their position to avoid mistakes during reassembly.
• Apply the tester probes to both contact terminals of the heater;
• Assess the component's functionality. If the device screen displays a value between 25-30 ohms, the component being tested is in good working order.

When the multimeter display shows "0" or "1," the heating element has burned out and can no longer function. In this case, the element must be replaced.

We buy and exchange

The washing machine's heating element cannot be repaired, so if it breaks, the only solution is to install a new one. It's important to purchase a replacement part carefully. It's important to buy the correct heating element for your specific Samsung washing machine model.

If you have any doubts when choosing a heating element yourself, it is better to remove the part and take it to the store to select a similar one.

If you know exactly which part you need, you can search for it online. Prices are often significantly lower online. However, avoid buying very low-priced parts, as they may be defective. On average, a Samsung heating element costs around $8–$15.

Heating element power is of great importance. Depending on the Samsung appliance model, heating elements typically have a power rating of 1850 or 1900 watts.

Once you've selected the replacement part and removed the front panel of the machine, you can begin replacing the element. Let's look at how to do it:

• Loosen the nut securing the heater. A socket wrench will help. The mount is located in the middle of the shank;
• take hold of the part to be removed and loosen it;
• Use a wrench to tap the stud (the rod onto which the nut was screwed). The stud should go inside;
• Use a slotted screwdriver to pry up the heating element, trying to move it from its mounting location;
• Pull the contacts to remove the heater from the slot. It's important to remove the part carefully; breaking the contacts will significantly complicate the removal process.

After removing the heating element, inspect its condition. Most often, its surface is coated with scale, and if there's a short circuit, dark spots will be visible on the element.

Subsequent installation of the component will not take much time, it is necessary:

• Use a multimeter to check the new heating element and ensure the contact resistance is within specifications. This will help rule out a manufacturing defect.
• treat the heater with a special lubricant or WD-40 aerosol product;
• place the part into the groove;
• secure with the central nut;
• put the thermostat back in;
• connect the power supply wiring.

In fact, you can fix a Samsung washing machine malfunction caused by a faulty heating element yourself, without the need for a professional. The repair doesn't require any specific skills, and the tools needed for the job are readily available in every home. Simply read the instructions carefully and follow them precisely.

   

1 reader comment

1. November 21, 2023 at 10:15 AM

   Paradise:

   Even though the heating element is difficult to remove, it's impossible to pry it out with a screwdriver; it's located deep inside. The water protection is located along with the plastic drum cover, making the heating element inaccessible.

   Answer