Samsung Dryer Won’t Turn Off Unless Door Is Open

Short answers: The dryer’s door switch is likely faulty. Replace it to fix the issue. Running the dryer with the door open is not safe or efficient.

The issue of a Samsung dryer refusing to turn off unless its door is open is a perplexing and frustrating concern that many users encounter. This peculiar malfunction not only disrupts the normal operation of the appliance but also raises questions about safety and energy efficiency. In this discussion, I will discuss the underlying causes behind this problem, examine potential troubleshooting steps, and provide guidance on how to rectify the issue effectively. Understanding and resolving this anomaly is crucial to ensuring the dryer functions correctly, providing users with both convenience and peace of mind.

Causes Of Samsung Dryer Not Turning On Unless Door Is Open

If your Samsung dryer is not turning on unless the door is open, it can be caused by several factors. Here’s a breakdown of possible causes and what you can do to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Stuck Motor Relay: The motor relay is responsible for sending power to the dryer’s motor. If it gets stuck, it can prevent the dryer from starting. You may need to replace the motor relay if it’s malfunctioning.
2. Replace the Control Board: The control board is like the brain of your dryer. If it’s faulty or damaged, it can prevent the dryer from starting. Replacing the control board might be necessary.
3. Faulty Door Switch: The door switch ensures that the dryer doesn’t operate when the door is open. If the door switch is faulty or not making proper contact, the dryer may not start unless the door is open. Inspect and replace the door switch if needed.
4. Wrinkle Prevent Is Enabled: Some Samsung dryers have a feature called “Wrinkle Prevent” that allows the dryer to tumble the clothes intermittently after the cycle has finished to prevent wrinkles. If this feature is enabled, the dryer may not start immediately when you press the start button. Make sure the cycle is not in Wrinkle Prevent mode.
5. Stuck Start Button: If the start button is physically stuck or not functioning properly, it can prevent the dryer from starting. Try to unstick the button or replace it if necessary.
6. Broken Dryer Timer: The timer on the dryer controls the duration of the cycle. If it’s broken or not functioning correctly, it can prevent the dryer from starting. Inspect and replace the timer if required.
7. Faulty Cycling Thermostat: The cycling thermostat regulates the temperature inside the dryer. If it’s faulty, it can disrupt the drying cycle and prevent the dryer from starting. Check and replace the cycling thermostat if needed.
8. Start Button Stuck: Sometimes, the start button itself can get stuck due to debris or wear and tear. Ensure the button is not physically stuck and functions correctly.
9. Motor Relay Electrical Short: If there’s an electrical short in the motor relay, it can cause issues with the dryer’s operation. Inspect the relay for any signs of damage or short circuits and replace it if necessary.

How To Fix Samsung Dryer Not Turning On Unless The Door Is Open?

Check the door switch:

Checking the door switch on your Samsung dryer is a relatively simple process. The door switch is a safety feature that ensures the dryer doesn’t run with the door open. If this switch is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from starting. Here’s how to check the door switch:

Access the Door Switch Area: Depending on your Samsung dryer model, the door switch may be located at different places. Generally, you’ll find it near the dryer door’s latch or opening. You may need to remove the dryer’s top or front panel to access it.

Visual Inspection: Look closely at the door switch. Check for any visible damage, such as a broken or cracked switch body. Sometimes, a faulty door switch can be identified just by its appearance.

Test the Switch with a Multimeter (Optional): If the door switch looks fine but you want to be sure it’s working correctly, you can use a multimeter to test it. Here’s how:

• Set your multimeter to the “Ohms” (Ω) setting.
• Disconnect the wires connected to the door switch terminals. Make sure you remember their positions for reassembly.
• Touch one multimeter probe to each of the door switch’s terminals. The multimeter should display a reading close to zero ohms (Ω) when the door is closed and an infinite reading (OL or “Open Loop”) when the door is open.
• Open and close the dryer door while observing the multimeter reading. It should change from infinite resistance (door open) to near-zero resistance (door closed).

Replacement: If the door switch is visibly damaged or fails the multimeter test, it’s likely the cause of your dryer issue. You should replace the faulty door switch with a new one.

Reassembly: Reconnect the wires to the new door switch terminals, secure it in its mounting location, and reassemble any panels or covers you removed to access the switch.

Plug in and Test: After everything is reassembled, plug or reconnect the dryer to the power source. Close the dryer door and test to see if it starts properly. If the issue persists, you may need to further diagnose other components or seek professional repair help.

Check the cool-down thermostat

Checking the cool-down thermostat in your Samsung dryer is a straightforward process. The cool-down thermostat is a safety device that helps regulate the dryer’s temperature during the cool-down cycle. If it’s malfunctioning, it can affect the dryer’s performance. Here’s how to check it:

1. Access the Thermostat: Depending on your Samsung dryer model, the cool-down thermostat may be located in different areas, often near the heating element or blower housing. You might need to remove the dryer’s top, front, or rear panel to access it.
2. Visual Inspection: Inspect the thermostat visually. Look for any signs of damage or irregularities, such as burning, discoloration, or visible wear. If you see any damage or if the thermostat looks burnt, it’s likely faulty and needs replacement.
3. Test the Thermostat with a Multimeter (Optional): To be certain about the thermostat’s functionality, you can use a multimeter to test it. Here’s how:a. Set your multimeter to the “Ohms” (Ω) setting.b. Disconnect the wires from the cool-down thermostat terminals. Remember their positions for reassembly.c. Touch one multimeter probe to each of the thermostat’s terminals. You should get a reading close to zero ohms (Ω) if the thermostat is closed (functional) and an infinite reading (OL or “Open Loop”) if it’s open (faulty).
4. d. If the thermostat fails this test by showing an infinite reading when it should be closed (during cool-down mode), it’s likely faulty and needs replacement.
5. Replacement: If the cool-down thermostat is visibly damaged or fails the multimeter test, you should replace it with a new one. Make sure to install the new thermostat in the same orientation and reconnect the wires correctly.
6. Reassembly: Reconnect the wires to the thermostat’s terminals, secure it in its mounting location, and reassemble any panels or covers you removed to access the thermostat.
7. Plug in and Test: After everything is reassembled, plug or reconnect the dryer to the power source. Run a dryer cycle and check if the cool-down phase works as expected. If the issue persists, you may need to further diagnose other components or seek professional repair assistance.

Check The Timer

Checking the timer in your Samsung dryer involves testing its functionality to see if it’s accurately controlling the duration of drying cycles. Here’s how to check the timer:

Access the Timer: Depending on your Samsung dryer model, the timer is usually located on the control panel. You may need to remove the dryer’s top or front panel to access it. Consult your dryer’s manual for specific instructions on how to access the timer.

Visual Inspection: Inspect the timer visually. Look for any visible damage, loose wires, or burnt connections. If you see any signs of damage, it’s a good indicator that the timer may be faulty and needs replacement.

Manual Timer Test: If there are no visible issues with the timer, you can perform a manual test to check its functionality. Follow these steps:

• Plug in or reconnect the dryer to the power source, ensuring it’s in a safe location and there are no exposed wires.Set the dryer to a timed drying cycle (e.g., 30 minutes).
• Start the dryer and monitor the timer as it counts down. It should advance steadily and stop the dryer when the set time elapses. If the timer doesn’t advance or stops prematurely, it may be faulty.

Replacement: If the timer fails the manual test by not advancing or stopping prematurely, it’s likely that the timer is faulty and needs replacement. Disconnect the dryer from the power source before replacing the timer.

Timer Replacement Steps: Replacing the timer involves removing the old timer and installing a new one. The specific steps for replacement can vary depending on your dryer model, so consult your dryer’s manual for detailed instructions on how to replace the timer. Typically, it involves disconnecting wires, removing mounting screws, and carefully swapping out the old timer for a new one.

Reassembly: After replacing the timer, reassemble any panels or covers you removed to access the timer.

Plug in and Test: Plug in or reconnect the dryer to the power source, then run a dryer cycle to ensure that the new timer functions correctly and accurately controls the drying time.

Replace The Main Control Board

Replacing the main control board in your Samsung dryer is a more advanced repair task that should be done carefully. The main control board is responsible for controlling various functions of the dryer, and if it’s faulty, it can lead to operational issues. Here’s a general guide on how to replace the main control board:

1. Access the Control Board: Depending on your Samsung dryer model, the control board is typically located behind the control panel. You may need to remove the dryer’s top, front, or rear panel to access it. Consult your dryer’s manual for specific instructions on accessing the control board.
2. Disconnect Wires: Take a picture or make a diagram of the wire connections to the control board. This will help you reconnect them correctly later. Carefully disconnect all wires from the control board, including any connectors and harnesses.
3. Remove the Control Board: The control board is usually held in place by mounting screws or clips. Remove these screws or unclip the board from its mounting location. Be gentle to avoid damaging the board or other components.
4. Install the New Control Board: Position the new control board in place, aligning it with the mounting holes or clips. Secure it using the mounting screws or clips.
5. Reconnect Wires: Carefully reconnect all the wires to the new control board, following the diagram or picture you made earlier to ensure correct connections.
6. Reassembly: Reassemble any panels or covers you removed to access the control board. Make sure everything is securely in place.
7. Plug in and Test: Plug in or reconnect the dryer to the power source. Turn on the dryer and test its functions to ensure that the new control board is working correctly. Check various dryer settings and cycles to verify that they operate as intended.
8. Programming (if needed): In some cases, the new control board may need to be programmed or set up according to your dryer’s specific model. Refer to the dryer’s manual for instructions on programming, if required.
9. Final Check: Double-check all connections and ensure that the dryer is functioning properly. Look for any error codes or unusual behavior that might indicate a problem with the control board or connections.

FAQs

Why does my dryer run all day?

If your dryer runs continuously, it may be due to a faulty thermostat or sensor, clogged venting, or a malfunctioning control board. You should have it inspected and repaired to prevent energy wastage and potential damage.

Can a dryer dry with the door open?

No, a dryer typically cannot dry effectively with the door open. Closing the door is essential to maintain the proper temperature and airflow needed for efficient drying. Leaving the door open may also pose safety risks.

What does SE mean when the dryer stops working?

SE” on a Samsung dryer often indicates a problem with the dryer’s airflow, specifically a venting issue. It can mean the dryer is not getting proper ventilation. Check and clean the dryer’s lint filter, and venting system, and ensure there are no obstructions.

What does a dryer door switch do?

A dryer door switch is a safety feature that prevents the dryer from operating when the door is open. It cuts power to the dryer’s heating elements and motor to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents when accessing the drum during a cycle.

Conclusion

When a Samsung dryer refuses to turn off unless the door is open, it is indicative of a malfunction with the dryer’s door switch or related components. This issue compromises the dryer’s safety and energy efficiency, as well as the overall user experience. Addressing the problem promptly by inspecting and potentially replacing the faulty components is essential to ensure the dryer functions as intended, promoting safety and optimal performance.