How-To Guides
10 Common Samsung Dryer Issues and How to Troubleshoot Them
AAZparts Team
Updated on July 11, 2025
6 min read
Samsung dryers are trusted for their performance and innovation, but like all appliances, they can develop issues over time. From not heating to stopping mid-cycle or making unusual noises, identifying these common Samsung dryer problems early can save time and money. In this guide, AZParts breaks down the most common Samsung dryer issues and provides step-by-step solutions along with expert repair tips.
1. Dryer is not running
When your Samsung dryer refuses to start, it’s typically due to a few common causes:
Common Causes:
- Power supply issues or a loose plug
- A tripped circuit breaker
- Faulty internal components like the door switch, start switch, or control board
One part that’s often overlooked is the door switch — a small component that ensures the dryer only runs when the door is fully closed. If it's broken or worn out, the dryer won't start even when everything else seems fine.
Solutions:
- Confirm the dryer is plugged in properly
- Check and reset the circuit breaker
- Inspect the control panel and start switch
- Examine the door switch for damage or failure
2. Dryer not heating
Should your Samsung dryer run without generating heat, it may point to problems ranging from electrical supply to internal malfunctions
Common Causes:
- Incomplete power supply (only one breaker is active)
- Burnt-out heating element
- Blocked exhaust vent or clogged lint filter
- Failed thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat
Solutions:
- Check both circuit breakers to ensure full 240V supply
- Clean the lint filter and inspect the vent for airflow blockage
- Test the heating element, thermal fuse, and thermostat with a multimeter
- Replace any faulty components
Repairing heating element connections in an appliance (Source: AZParts)
3. Dryer Overheating
An overheating Samsung dryer can damage clothes, reduce efficiency, and pose safety hazards. While this issue is often caused by airflow restrictions, internal component failures can also be to blame.
Common Causes:
- Blocked or crushed vent hose restricting airflow
- Clogged lint filter or dryer vent
- Faulty thermostat or thermistor failing to regulate temperature
- Buildup of lint inside the machine or exhaust path
Solutions
- Remove and thoroughly clean the lint filter
- Disconnect the vent hose and clear debris using a vacuum
- Inspect the thermostat and heating element if cleaning doesn’t help
- Ensure the dryer is placed in a well-ventilated area
Proper ventilation is critical for safe dryer operation. If airflow issues persist, replace worn or damaged parts with a high-quality AZParts vent hose or AZParts thermostat or dryer hermistor to restore safe and effective drying performance.
4. Samsung Dryer Isn’t Drying
If your clothes remain damp after a full cycle, your dryer may be running but not effectively drying.
Common Causes:
- Blocked exhaust or lint buildup
- Overloading the dryer drum
- Weak or inconsistent heat
Solutions:
- Avoid overloading and allow air to circulate freely
- Clean the lint filter and check the vent
- Examine the heating system for issues
Reminder: Regular maintenance can help avoid poor performance and prolong the lifespan of your Samsung dryer.
Dryer running but not effectively drying clothes (Source: AZParts)
5. Samsung Dryer Dries Unevenly
When some clothes are dry while others stay wet, your dryer likely has uneven heat distribution or airflow problems.
Common Causes:
- Uneven load size or heavy items
- Worn drum seals causing air leaks
- Sensor malfunctions
Solutions:
- Dry similar fabric types together
- Check drum seals and moisture sensors for wear
- Level the dryer properly to ensure balanced operation
Reminder: Inconsistent drying may also be a sign of internal wear. Inspect and maintain your dryer regularly for optimal results.
6. Samsung Dryer Making Noises
Unusual sounds like squeaking, thumping, humming, or squealing coming from your Samsung dryer are strong indicators that certain mechanical components may be worn out or misaligned.
Common Causes:
- Worn-out drum rollers causing the drum to wobble or drag
- Loose or stretched drive belt making a slapping or squealing sound
- Faulty idler pulley producing high-pitched squeaks as it loses tension
- Damaged drum glides or misaligned blower wheel
Solutions:
- Start by inspecting and replacing the drum glides if they appear worn
- If the noise continues, check the drive belt for cracks or looseness
- Examine the idler pulley and blower wheel for excessive wear or misalignment
- Lubricate moving parts where appropriate and replace any worn components
Noisy Samsung dryer causing frustration.( Source: AZParts)
7. Samsung Dryer Not Rotating
If your dryer runs but the drum doesn't spin, mechanical failure is likely to blame.
Common Causes:
- Broken or loose drive belt
- Failed motor or motor switch
- Worn drum support components
Solutions:
- Unplug the unit and remove the panel to inspect the belt
- Test the motor and replace if necessary
- Examine support rollers or glides for wear
Reminder: Address rotation issues promptly to prevent further internal damage.
8. Samsung Dryer Has Odors
A musty or burning smell coming from your Samsung dryer is not only unpleasant — it can signal hidden issues that need immediate attention. Odors may stem from environmental factors or internal components wearing out.
Common Causes:
- Lint buildup inside the lint filter or exhaust vent
- Mold or mildew forming in the drum due to trapped moisture
- A malfunctioning heating element emitting a burnt smell during use
- Dryer pulling in odors from nearby cleaning products or chemicals
Solutions:
- Clean the lint filter after every load and check for lint trapped in the exhaust hose
- Wipe down the drum with a mild vinegar solution and ensure it dries completely
- If the smell resembles something burning, inspect the heating element
- Ventilate the laundry area to avoid environmental odors being pulled into the machine
Persistent burning smells often point to a damaged or overheating component. For long-term odor prevention and safe operation, consider replacing the faulty part with a Samsung-compatible heating element from AZParts, designed for performance and reliability.
Samsung Dryer Lint Filter Clogged with Dust and Debris (Source: AZParts)
9. Samsung Dryer Leaving Lint on Clothes
Noticing lint stuck to your clothes after drying? This is a common issue, but it’s often a sign that your dryer isn’t filtering or venting properly — and that some parts may need attention or replacement.
Common Causes:
- Clogged lint filter: A dirty or damaged lint filter can’t trap particles effectively, leading to lint recirculating inside the drum.
- Blocked exhaust vent: Poor airflow from a clogged vent can cause lint buildup, which gets pushed back onto your laundry.
- Worn drum felt seal: When the drum seal deteriorates, lint escapes the drying chamber and settles on clothing.
Solutions:
- Clean the lint filter before every load, and replace it if it’s torn or brittle.
- Clear lint from the entire exhaust system to restore proper airflow.
- Inspect the drum felt seal and replace it if it’s loose, frayed, or missing.
10. Samsung Dryer Showing an Error Code
Many Samsung dryers include built-in diagnostics that display error codes when a problem occurs. These codes help identify issues like sensor failures, power supply problems, or heating malfunctions.
Common Error Codes:
- HE / tE – Heating element or temperature sensor error
- dE – Door not closing properly
- FE – Power or fuse issue
- bE – Button stuck
Solutions:
- Unplug the dryer for 1–2 minutes to reset it
- Check the user manual for code definitions
The dryer displays error code “dE”, indicating a door problem.(Source: AZParts)
Whatever problems your Samsung dryer has, AZParts offers a wide selection of Samsung dryer parts—from heating elements to lint filters and drive belts. Find the perfect replacement at AZParts Samsung dryer parts to keep your appliance running smoothly.
Contact Information:
8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
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