Samsung Washing Machine: not starting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Samsung washing machine not starting? This issue may manifest as the machine powering on without initiating a wash cycle. You'll notice no drum movement or activity when the start button is pressed. Common causes include power supply issues, a faulty door lock, or even a blown thermal fuse. Understanding these problems can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Samsung Models

  • Samsung official support emphasizes verifying power issues as basic troubleshooting for washer not turning on, including checking outlet and breaker. (Appliance Parts Pros

Possible Causes

Power supply issues (outlet, cord, breaker)

How to Identify: No lights or response, breaker tripped, other appliances on same outlet not powering

Part: Power cord/household circuit

Door/lid not properly closed or door lock mechanism fault

How to Identify: Door appears closed but machine shows no start or door lock indicator error; pressing start does nothing. (Manuall

Part: Door lock switch or latch

Thermal fuse blown

How to Identify: No start at all and power light off despite power present; component tested as open circuit. (Appliance Parts Pros

Part: Thermal fuse

Control board or console failure

How to Identify: No response from control panel buttons or erratic behavior, power present. (Appliance Parts Pros(iFixit

Part: Main control board

Motor or drive system fault

How to Identify: Humming sounds or smells but no start/drum movement. (Appliance Parts Pros

Part: Motor, motor control board

DIY Solutions

Check and ensure power supply

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Ensure unit is plugged directly into wall outlet (no extension).
  2. Check household breaker/fuse and reset if tripped.
  3. Try another appliance in same outlet to confirm power.
  4. Inspect power cord for visible damage.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on internal parts with power connected.

Verify and reseat door/lid closure

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Open and firmly close door or lid ensuring it latches.
  2. Ensure no laundry is caught in door gasket preventing closure.
  3. Attempt restarting after closure.
  4. If equipped, observe door lock indicator for errors.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force door closed with excessive force.

Inspect and replace thermal fuse

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Disconnect power before work.
  2. Locate thermal fuse.
  3. Test continuity with multimeter; replace if open.
  4. Reassemble and test start.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off; incorrect part can cause hazards.

Professional Repairs

Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $100–$250

Door lock assembly repair/replacement

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

When to Call a Professional

No power and DIY checks failed
Burnt smell or visible damage inside
Control panel unresponsive despite proper power and door lock

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check cord and outlet contacts: Power supply start issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Clean door gasket and ensure door closes fully: Door‑sensing start block
    Frequency: weekly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Washing Machine not starting?
Common reasons include power supply issues, door lock faults, or a blown thermal fuse.
How do I fix Samsung Washing Machine not starting myself?
Check the power supply, ensure the door is closed properly, or inspect the thermal fuse.
How much does it cost to fix not starting?
Professional repairs can range from $50 for door lock replacement to $250 for control board issues.
When should I call a technician for not starting?
If basic troubleshooting fails or if the issue seems complex, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Blockage in fill sensor tube (1 mentions)
  • Child lock activated (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the fill sensor tube for blockages and ensure child lock is not activated.

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Samsung Washing Machine Won't Start But Has Power
  2. Help! Samsung washing machine not starting

Community Discussions

Washing machine won't start but has power

Check the fill sensor tube for blockages and ensure child lock is not activated.

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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