Samsung washing machine won't switch modes

Sometimes, after turning on their "home assistant," housewives discover that their Samsung washing machine won't switch modes. Turning the dial doesn't work, and adjusting the program becomes impossible. This is a fairly common problem, and the causes vary. Let's figure out what to do in this situation.

Malfunctions not related to a machine breakdown

The inability to adjust the washing program isn't always due to a malfunction. Sometimes the cause is trivial and can be fixed at home. We'll explain what can cause this problem.

• Incorrect washing machine installation. It's important to position the washing machine's drain hose at the correct height and with a curved line. Otherwise, water will drain from the machine into the drain by gravity. This will cause the machine to refill, the cycle will become endless, and the control panel may become unresponsive. To resolve this, position the drain hose according to the instructions.
• The debris filter is clogged. This prevents the washing machine from draining and causes it to get stuck at one stage of the cycle, never proceeding to the next. Cleaning the filter element is the solution. After this, your "home assistant" will once again respond to user commands.
• A kinked drain hose is another reason why water drains poorly. The machine also freezes and doesn't respond to buttons or the programmer. Inspect the hose and straighten it to restore drainage.
• A clogged drain trap or riser. This can also cause the machine to freeze during operation. You can clean the components yourself or call a plumber.
• Washing machine overload. Each machine is designed to hold a certain amount of laundry per load. If the maximum load is exceeded, the washing machine won't be able to distribute the items in the drum and reach the required spin speed. This will cause the machine to freeze mid-cycle. The solution is simple: remove some of the clothes and restart the cycle.
• Imbalance. Sometimes, items in the drum become clumped together, causing the system to become unbalanced. This problem prevents the machine from continuing the cycle and causes it to freeze. You'll need to pause the program and manually redistribute the laundry.
• Random failure of the control unit. Sometimes the electronic module of the washing machine Samsung freezes, which is why various problems in the operation of the equipment are observed. This includes the inability to switch modes. A system reboot will help resolve the issue.

To reset your Samsung washing machine, unplug it for 15-20 minutes, then restart it.

If the problem is truly a one-time failure of the electronic module, the washing machine will work again after a reboot. These are typical problems and are not related to any system malfunctions. We will also describe situations in which your washing machine may require repair.

The heating element failed

A faulty heating element can cause Samsung washing machines to be unable to change programs. It might seem like there's a connection. The explanation is actually quite simple.

Hard tap water negatively impacts the heater. The heating element becomes coated with scale. The element also becomes coated with residue from poor-quality detergents, lint, threads, hair, and other debris.

The built-up deposits cause the heating element to lose power. Trying to raise the water temperature to the required temperature, the heater operates at maximum capacity and eventually burns out. A burning smell will indicate the problem. A short circuit in the system causes the machine to refuse to switch modes.

A burnt-out heating element cannot be repaired; the tubular heater will need to be replaced.

When purchasing a new heating element, be sure to select the model of your Samsung washing machine. You can replace the heating element yourself, without the need for professional help. It is located at the rear of the appliance, under the tank.

The fault is hidden in the control module

The electronic module "controls" the washing machine's operation. Often, a Samsung machine stops switching modes due to a faulty module. Typically, the semiconductor elements are damaged or the contacts are oxidized:

• in the heating circuit (from experience, the heating element relay burns out more often);
• in the motor circuit (usually the culprit is the control triac);
• in the pump circuit.

Power surges and high humidity in the washing machine's installation area can cause control board failure. It's recommended to entrust inspection and repair of the electronic module to specialists. This is complex work, and difficult to perform without experience and knowledge.

   

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