Do you have a Samsung electric dryer that keeps shutting off? If you do, I’m sure you know how frustrating it can be, especially when you need to keep your clothes clean and fresh.
However, if your electric dryer keeps shutting off, you don’t need to panic or get a new one, as there are several ways to fix the problem.
This guide will discuss seven ways to fix a Samsung dryer that shuts off easily. Whether it’s a simple adjustment or total replacement of a faulty part, we’ll guide you through it so you can get your dryer up and running in no distant time.
Why Does Your Samsung Dryer Keep Shutting Off?
A Samsung dryer may keep shutting off for a variety of reasons. Here are some possible causes and solutions:
1. Overheating
Overheating is one of the most common reasons for a Samsung dryer to shut off unexpectedly.
Overheating in dryers are used caused by blocked vent tubes, malfunctioning thermostats, or clogged lint filters. Your dryer shuts down when it overheats, which is a precautionary measure to prevent further damage.
To prevent overheating, it’s crucial to regularly clean the lint filter and ensure that the vent tube is not blocked.
2. Faulty Thermostat
Every dryer has a thermostat responsible for regulating the temperature within the dryer. Now, if the thermostat in your dryer starts malfunctioning, it can cause your dryer to shut down unexpectedly.
A faulty thermostat will not be able to regulate temperature properly, which could lead to overheating, ultimately shutting the dryer down. To fix this problem, you may have to replace the faulty thermostat.
3. Broken Drive Belt
Another potential reason behind your Samsung dryer shutting down is a broken drive belt.
The belt turns the dryer drum, so it’s prone to break or become loose due to normal wear and tear or overloading the dryer. When this happens, the dryer will automatically shut off to save itself from further damage.
You’ll have to replace the faulty drive belt to fix this problem.
4. Defective Dryer Door Switch
A malfunctioning door switch can cause your Samsung dryer to shut off unexpectedly.
The door switch in Samsung dryers is responsible for sensing when the door is closed and enabling the dryer to run. If it starts malfunctioning, the dryer will refuse to start, or if it starts, it’ll shut off unexpectedly.
You’ll have to replace the defective door switch to fix this problem.
5. Blocked Dryer Vent
Do you know that a blocked vent can unexpectedly shut off your Samsung dryer? Well, now you do. If your dryer’s vent is blocked, it can cause the clothes dryer to overheat, triggering the safety shut-off feature. To prevent this problem, regularly clean the dryer’s vent and ensure it’s not blocked.
6. Power Issues
Your Samsung dryer can shut off unexpectedly if it’s not receiving sufficient power from the power source. This can happen due to a faulty power cord, a blown thermal fuse, or a tripped circuit breaker.
To fix this problem, check the power cord for visible damage, replace blown thermal fuses, and reset the circuit breaker.
7. Malfunctioning Control Board
The control board is the dryer’s brain, and it regulates the dryer’s functions. If the control board starts malfunctioning, it can cause the dryer to shut off unexpectedly. An electrical issue or power surge can cause this.
You may have to replace the malfunctioning control board to fix this problem.
Unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs, and if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to call a professional.
How to Fix a Samsung Dryer that Keeps Shutting Off
If your Samsung dryer keeps shutting off, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem:
1. Clean the Lint filter
A clogged lint filter can cause the dryer to overheat and shut off. The lint filter is located in the front of the dryer and should be cleaned before every use.
To clean the lint filter, remove the lint screen and use your fingers or a soft-bristled brush to remove any lint buildup. After that, rinse the filter under running water, and allow it to dry before reinstalling it into your appliance.
Cleaning the lint filter will ensure proper airflow and prevent your dryer from overheating.
2. Check the Exhaust vent.
A clogged exhaust vent can cause your Samsung dryer to shut off unexpectedly.
To check the exhaust vent for obstructions, disconnect it from the dryer and inspect it. If you find any obstructions, remove them using a brush or vacuum. It’s essential always to keep your vents clear because blocked vents pose a fire hazard.
3. Check the Power supply.
If your Samsung dryer is shutting off unexpectedly, check the power source. The dryer is not properly plugged in, and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If it has, then you can reset the breaker and try again.
If the power outlet is faulty, it’s most likely a problem with the electrical system in your home. For this fix, it’s best to call an electrician.
4. Inspect the Heating element.
Your dryer’s heating element is responsible for heating the air that dries your clothes. If the heating coil becomes damaged, it can cause your dryer to shut off.
Unplug the dryer and remove the back panel to check the heating element. Inspect the heating element for signs of damage, such as visible burns or breaks. If you find any, you’ll have to replace the heating element.
5. Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the dryer, and when the thermostat starts misbehaving, it can cause the dryer to shut off prematurely.
To be sure if the thermostat is responsible for your dryer shutting off, you’ll have to test it; to do that, you’ll need a multimeter. Use a multimeter to check for continuity; if there’s no continuity, you must replace the faulty thermostat.
It’s important to note that a faulty thermostat can also cause the dryer to overheat and pose a fire hazard, so it should be replaced as soon as possible.
6. Inspect the Moisture sensor.
The moisture sensor in dryers detects the moisture level in the clothes and shuts off the dryer when the clothes are no longer moist (i.e. when they are dry).
A faulty or dirty moisture sensor can cause your dryer to shut off unexpectedly. To fix this problem, you’ll have to clean it, and to do that; you’ll need to use a soft cloth and alcohol to scrub the sensor gently. But if it’s a faulty moisture sensor, you’ll have to replace it.
7. Check the Control board.
The control board is responsible for sending signals to the other components in the dryer. If the control board starts malfunctioning, it can cause the dryer to shut off prematurely.
To test the control board, you’ll have to use a multimeter to test for continuity. You’ll have to replace the control board if there is no continuity.
Always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs, and if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to call a professional.
By following the steps above, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix the issue of a Samsung dryer that keeps shutting off and ensure your appliance’s safe and efficient operation.
FAQs
Why does my dryer turn on and off by itself?
There could be several reasons why your dryer turns on and off by itself. Here are a few possible causes:
Overheating: Your dryer may have an overheating safety mechanism that turns off when it gets too hot to prevent it from damaging other parts of the dryer. A clogged vent, a blocked exhaust, or a malfunctioning thermostat can cause this.
Faulty Dryer Timer: The dryer timer controls the duration of the drying cycle, and it can cause the dryer to turn on and off and random intervals if it becomes faulty.
Malfunctioning Sensor: Most modern dryers come with sensors capable of detecting clothes when they are dry and automatically turning off the dryer. If the sensors in your dryer start malfunctioning, it can cause the dryer to turn on and off by itself.
Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as a loose wire or a short circuit, can cause your dryer to turn on and off randomly. This is often dangerous, so it’s important to address electrical dryer issues quickly.
If you’re uncomfortable troubleshooting these issues alone, it’s always best to call a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
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.
