If you’re a Samsung dishwasher owner, you know how convenient it is to have a reliable appliance to take care of dirty dishes. However, if you’re experiencing the frustrating issue of your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, it can put a damper on your routine.
But don’t worry, there are easy ways to fix this issue without calling a professional technician. Throughout this guide, we’ll cover 10 simple solutions to help you troubleshoot and resolve the problem, so you can get back to enjoying your clean dishes without any interruptions.
So, let’s dive in and get your dishwasher back to doing what it does best – cleaning your dishes to perfection!
Why is Your Samsung Dishwasher Stopping Mid-Cycle?
Samsung dishwashers are known for their excellent performance and efficiency in cleaning dishes, but like any other appliance, they may experience some issues that can disrupt their functionality.
One such issue is the dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, which can be frustrating for the user. A mid-cycle stop in your Samsung dishwasher can be caused by several factors, which you should know before attempting to resolve the issue.
1. Defective Water Inlet Valve
The dishwasher’s water inlet valve is the component that regulates the water flow into the appliance. If the valve is defective, it can lead to an insufficient water supply, causing the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.
This can happen for several reasons, such as a faulty valve solenoid, a clogged valve filter, or a damaged valve diaphragm. A defective water inlet valve can disrupt the dishwasher’s operation, causing it to stop mid-cycle or fail to start at all.
2. Malfunctioning Drain Pump
The drain pump removes the dirty water from the dishwasher after each cycle. In the event of a malfunctioning or faulty pump, it can cause improper draining of water that leads your dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.
Many factors can contribute to this issue, including a blocked drain hose, a damaged pump impeller, or a malfunctioning pump motor.
Keep in mind that if the drain pump is not functioning correctly, water may accumulate in the dishwasher, compromising its cleaning performance and posing the danger of water damage.
3. Faulty Door Latch
The dishwasher’s door latch ensures that the door remains closed during operation to prevent water from leaking. A faulty or loose latch can cause the door to open during the cycle, disrupting the dishwasher’s operation and causing it to stop mid-cycle.
Several reasons can cause this, such as a worn-out door spring, a damaged latch mechanism, or a misaligned door strike.
4. Defective Control Board
The dishwasher’s control board is vital in regulating the appliance’s different functions, including water intake, temperature, and cycle duration. If this control board malfunctions or fails, it can interrupt the regular operation of the cycle, leading to the dishwasher stopping mid-cycle.
Additionally, when the control board is defective, it may result in error codes or other malfunctions that the dishwasher displays. This problem may arise due to a power surge, a damaged circuit board, or a faulty control module.
5. Malfunctioning Sensor or Thermostat
The heart of your dishwasher’s efficient operation lies in the sensor or thermostat, as it regulates the temperature and water level to ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean.
However, when this crucial component malfunctions or fails, it can throw a wrench into the entire process. In this case, you might notice inaccurate temperature readings or incorrect cycle operation, leading to mid-cycle stops or poor cleaning performance.
This problem occurs for various reasons – from a damaged sensor probe to a faulty thermostat or even a misaligned water level sensor.
6. Clogged or Dirty Filters
The filters in a dishwasher play a vital role in ensuring that food particles and other debris are effectively removed from the water during the cleaning cycle. If these filters become clogged or dirty, they can impede water flow, leading to lackluster cleaning results and unwanted cycle interruption.
Such clogs are commonly caused by a build-up of food debris, grease, or hard water minerals that gradually accumulate on the filters over time.
7. Improperly Loaded Dishes
The dishwasher spray arms are crucial components that distribute water evenly throughout the dishwasher to clean dishes effectively. When the dishes are loaded improperly, the spray arm may not rotate correctly, leading to poor cleaning performance.
The spray arm may become obstructed due to a clogged nozzle or debris build-up. This can prevent the spray arm from distributing water evenly, which can cause dishes to be left dirty and result in the dishwasher stopping mid-cycle.
Additionally, dishes may block the spray arm or obstruct water flow, which can also cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. This can happen if dishes are loaded too closely together or placed in a way that obstructs the spray arm’s rotation.
8. Malfunctioning Wash Motor
The wash motor is another critical component of a Samsung dishwasher that agitates the water and distributes it evenly throughout the appliance to clean dishes effectively.
In the event of a malfunctioning wash motor, your dishwasher may experience a range of performance issues that can negatively impact its cleaning abilities.
For instance, the wash motor may fail to agitate the water properly, leading to lackluster cleaning results and the interruption of a cycle. Such motor malfunctions can stem from various reasons, including a damaged pump, a broken impeller, or a faulty motor capacitor.
9. Malfunctioning Heating Element
The heating element is an integral part of any Samsung dishwasher that plays a crucial role in heating water to the appropriate temperature during a cycle. When a heating element fails, it may struggle to heat the water to the necessary temperature, leading to the dishwasher stopping mid-cycle.
Alternatively, the dishwasher may continue to operate, but the cleaning results may not be perfect. A malfunctioning heating element can also lead to longer cycle times and increased energy consumption.
Several factors can cause a heating element to malfunction, including a damaged thermostat, a broken heating coil, or a faulty electronic control board.
Given the importance of the heating element in ensuring that your dishwasher performs at its best, it’s crucial to address any problems with it as soon as possible. In doing so, you can help ensure that your dishwasher can heat water to the necessary temperature, resulting in cleaner dishes and a more efficient cleaning cycle.
10. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse
If your Samsung dishwasher suddenly stops mid-cycle, it could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. These safety features are designed to protect the electrical circuit from damage caused by overloading or short circuits.
When the circuit breaker or fuse is triggered, it interrupts the power supply to the dishwasher, causing it to stop.
There are several possible reasons why the circuit breaker or fuse may have tripped or blown, such as a faulty electrical connection, a damaged power cord, or a malfunctioning control board. In this case, it may be necessary to contact a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
11. Faulty or Worn-Out Door Seal
The Samsung dishwasher’s door seal plays a crucial role in preventing water from leaking out of the appliance while it’s in operation. The seal ensures water remains inside the dishwasher by forming a watertight barrier between the tub and the door.
This safety feature is intended to safeguard the kitchen from water damage and shield the dishwasher from further harm. However, if the door seal is damaged or worn out, water can escape during the cycle, causing the appliance’s safety mechanism to halt mid-cycle.
Prolonged use, physical damage, or exposure to hard water minerals can all cause the door seal to wear out.
How to Fix a Samsung Dishwasher Stopping Mid-Cycle
With the knowledge of why your Samsung Dishwasher is stopping mid-cycle, fixing the issue has become a breeze! Simply follow any one of these 10 solutions.
1. Defective Water Inlet Valve Fix
If you’re experiencing issues with your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle or failing to start at all, the culprit may be a defective water inlet valve. The water inlet valve must be replaced to fix this issue.
This relatively simple process involves turning off the water supply to the dishwasher and disconnecting the valve from the appliance.
The new valve can then be installed in its place, and the water supply can be turned back on. Before purchasing, it is essential to ensure that the new valve is compatible with the dishwasher’s make and model.
If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional technician to do it for you. They will have the necessary tools and experience to complete the job quickly and efficiently.
2. Malfunctioning Drain Pump Fix
The first step to resolving a malfunctioning drain pump is to diagnose the specific problem. First, you must ensure the drain hose is not blocked or kinked, preventing water from draining correctly.
If necessary, remove any blockages or straighten out the hose. Next, inspect the pump impeller, responsible for pushing water through the drain hose.
If it is damaged or broken, it may be unable to effectively remove the water; if you find any damage, you may need to replace the impeller. The next step is to test the pump motor for continuity using a multimeter; if the motor is not working, it may need to be replaced.
Cleaning the dishwasher is also crucial, as accumulated water or debris from a malfunctioning pump can be problematic. To properly clean the dishwasher, run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner after removing any debris or standing water.
Remember that a malfunctioning drain pump can cause severe damage to your dishwasher and home if left untreated, so it is best to seek professional assistance if none of these solutions resolve the issue.
3. Faulty Door Latch Fix
To fix a faulty door latch, check the door strike to ensure it is properly aligned with the latch mechanism. If it is misaligned, adjust it to the correct position. If the door strike is in the right position, you may need to replace the door spring or latch mechanism.
Consult the dishwasher’s manual or a professional technician for guidance on how to do this. With a properly functioning door latch, you can ensure that your dishwasher runs smoothly and without interruption.
4. Defective Control Board Fix
If you suspect that the control board of your dishwasher is defective, start by checking for power surges, as electrical surges can damage the control board, so it’s crucial to ensure that your dishwasher is protected from such events.
Consider installing a surge protector to protect the appliance from power spikes. You also want to inspect the circuit board because a damaged circuit board can cause malfunctions in the control board.
Check for any visible signs of damage, such as burn marks, cracks, or loose connections. You may need to replace the circuit board if you notice any damage.
It is now time to test the control module; if it’s faulty, it may need to be replaced.
However, before replacing it, you can test it with a multimeter to determine if it’s functioning correctly. If none of the above fixes work, you may need to replace the entire control board.
This can be a complex task, and it’s recommended that you seek the help of a qualified technician to avoid causing further damage to your dishwasher.
5. Malfunctioning Sensor or Thermostat Fix
The solution for a malfunctioning sensor or thermostat in your dishwasher would be to replace the faulty component. First, you need to identify whether it’s the sensor or the thermostat that’s malfunctioning.
You can do this by testing the component with a multimeter or consulting the manufacturer’s instructions for your dishwasher model. Once you have identified the malfunctioning component, you must replace it with a new one.
You can order a replacement sensor or thermostat from the manufacturer or a reliable appliance parts supplier.
Next, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new sensor or thermostat in your dishwasher. Make sure to turn off the power supply to your dishwasher before attempting any repairs.
After installing the new component, test your dishwasher to ensure it is functioning properly. Run a cycle and check that the temperature readings and water levels are correct.
6. Clogged or Dirty Filters Fix
Fixing the clogged or dirty filter is usually not a complicated process, but before you start working on the filters, turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power source.
The filters are usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher. There are traditionally two filters – a coarse filter and a fine filter.
Once you locate the filters, remove the coarse filter by lifting it and pulling it out. Next, remove the fine filter by turning it counterclockwise and lifting it out.
Rinse the filters under running water to remove any food particles or debris. If the filters are very dirty, you can soak them in warm soapy water for a few minutes before rinsing.
Reinstalling the filters is the final step; to do so, simply place the clean coarse filter in its position and press it down until it clicks into place. Then, insert the fine filter by turning it clockwise.
To avoid such issues, it’s recommended that the dishwasher’s filters be regularly cleaned to prevent any unwanted accumulation. Neglecting to clean the filters can make them excessively clogged, which can cause the dishwasher to unexpectedly stop mid-cycle.
Additionally, a damaged or malfunctioning filter can restrict water flow and cause the same unwanted interruption to the cleaning process. Therefore, keeping these filters in good working order is essential by regularly cleaning them and ensuring that any damage is promptly addressed.
Doing so will not only help to ensure the best cleaning performance from your dishwasher but also help to extend its overall lifespan.
7. Improperly Loaded Dishes Fix
If your Samsung dishwasher stops mid-cycle and you suspect improperly loaded dishes may be the cause, you should immediately pause the cycle.
If your dishwasher has a pause or stop button, press it to halt the cycle. This will allow you to rearrange any dishes that may be blocking the spray arms or impeding the movement of the dishwasher racks.
Also, ensure that the spray arms can move freely and that no obstructions block the holes where water sprays out. You may need to remove the spray arms and clean them if there is a build-up of food particles or debris.
Also, make sure that large items, such as baking sheets or cutting boards, are not blocking the path of the spray arms. Other things you can do include rearranging the dishes; make sure that dishes are not overlapping or touching each other, as this can prevent water from reaching all surfaces.
If you consistently have issues with improperly loaded dishes causing your dishwasher to stop mid-cycle, reviewing the manufacturer’s instructions for loading the dishwasher correctly may be helpful. This can help you avoid similar issues in the future.
8. Malfunctioning Wash Motor Fix
If your Samsung dishwasher is stopping mid-cycle and the wash motor is malfunctioning, it is important to first check for any obstructions.
Ensure that there are no obstructions in the dishwasher that may prevent the wash motor from functioning properly. This could include items like dishes or utensils that are blocking the spray arms.
You also want to clean the spray arms as they may become clogged with debris over time, which can affect the performance of the wash motor.
Remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush and warm soapy water. If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to check the wash motor itself.
Start by disconnecting the power to the dishwasher and removing the lower access panel. Look for any signs of damage or wear on the wash motor, and make sure the wiring connections are secure.
If the motor is damaged or not functioning, it may need to be replaced. You can purchase a replacement wash motor from a Samsung authorized dealer or repair service.
9. Malfunctioning Heating Element Fix
The solution to a malfunctioning heating element in a Samsung dishwasher involves several steps. The first one is checking for visible damage.
Inspect the heating element for any signs of damage, such as cracks, breaks, or burn marks. You may need to replace the heating element if you notice any damage.
Another thing you can do is test the thermostat, which is the component that controls the temperature of the water during the dishwasher cycle.
If the thermostat is faulty, the heating element may not heat the water to the correct temperature. Test the thermostat with a multimeter to ensure that it’s functioning correctly. If it’s not, you may need to replace it.
Test the heating coil: A broken coil can prevent the heating element from heating the water. Test the heating coil with a multimeter to determine if it’s working properly. If it’s not, you may need to replace it.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the replacement is installed correctly.
After replacing the faulty part, test the dishwasher to ensure that it’s functioning correctly. Run a cycle and check whether the water is heating properly and the dishes are clean.
10. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse Fix
To troubleshoot this issue, you should first check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if any fuses have blown or the circuit breaker has tripped. If so, you must reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.
However, if the problem persists after resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the fuse, you may need to investigate further.
There are several possible reasons why the circuit breaker or fuse may have tripped or blown, such as a faulty electrical connection, a damaged power cord, or a malfunctioning control board.
You may need to contact a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue. In any case, ensuring that your Samsung dishwasher is properly grounded and the electrical connections are secure is crucial.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your dishwasher can also help to prevent electrical issues and prolong the lifespan of your appliance.
11. Faulty or Worn-Out Door Seal Fix
To solve the problem of a faulty or worn-out door seal in a Samsung dishwasher, you can try to check the door seal for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. If you find any damage, replace the seal, which can be found at appliance repair shops or online.
If it’s not damaged, cleaning the door seal may fix the issue. Over time, hard water minerals, food particles, and other debris can accumulate on the door seal, making it less effective. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the seal and remove any build-up.
Another solution you can try is to adjust the door. If the door is misaligned, it can put extra pressure on the seal, causing it to wear out faster. Check the door alignment and adjust it as necessary.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
