Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking: Troubleshooting

The heavy light blinking on your Samsung dishwasher typically indicates an issue with the heating element or thermistor. It could mean the part is failing or has failed.

The blinking is the dishwasher’s way of signaling there’s a problem that needs your attention before it leads to further issues.

Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking: Troubleshooting

Understanding the Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking Issue

When you notice the heavy light blinking on your Samsung dishwasher, it’s alerting you to a problem with either the heating element or thermistor. The heating element heats the water in the dishwasher so it can properly wash and sanitize dishes. The thermistor monitors the temperature of the water.

If either part malfunctions, the dishwasher may not heat the water to the proper temperature for cleaning. The heavy blinking light is the dishwasher’s way of notifying you something is wrong with the heating system.

Causes of the Heavy Blinking Light Issue

There are a few potential causes of the Samsung dishwasher heavy blinking light issue:

• Faulty heating element – This part can fail over time after prolonged use. If the heating element malfunctions, it won’t be able to properly heat the water.
• Faulty thermistor – The thermistor monitors water temperature. If it fails, the dishwasher doesn’t know if the water has reached the optimum temperature for cleaning.
• Bad control board – The control board controls all electrical components. If it’s faulty, it can cause issues with the heating element and thermistor.
• Power surge – If your dishwasher experienced a power surge, it could have damaged the control board or other internal parts that regulate the heating element.

The heavy blinking light indicates the dishwasher recognizes one (or more) of these parts is not working correctly to heat the water.

Difference Between Heavy and Normal Blinking Lights

The normal blinking or flashing lights on the control panel correspond to different cycles on your Samsung dishwasher. Typically, a light might flash during the wash cycle while the dishwasher is actively cleaning.

However, the heavy light blinking is not a normal cycle indicator light. When the indicator labeled “Heavy” blinks, it exclusively signifies an issue with the heating system – either the heating element or thermistor.

The heavy light flashes because the dishwasher cannot reach the required internal temperature to properly sanitize dishes and finish a cycle. So while normal blinking lights are status indicators, the heavy light blinking is an error alert.

Impact of the Issue on Dishwasher’s Functionality

When your Samsung dishwasher’s heavy light is blinking, the functionality is impaired:

• Dishes may not get fully sanitized and come out still dirty or with residue. The dishwasher needs very hot water (around 150F or higher) to sanitize dishes and kill bacteria. If it cannot properly heat the water due to problems with the heating element or thermistor, high heat sanitizing cannot happen.
• Longer cycle times. It may take longer for cycles to complete since the dishwasher struggles to reach the appropriate water temperature.
• Risk of leakage. You may notice water pooling in the bottom of your dishwasher. Prolonged exposure to excessive heat and humidity can degrade seals and cause leaks.

The heavy blinking light indicates your Samsung dishwasher requires service. If left unchecked, the issue can lead to bigger problems over time. The functionality progressively diminishes the longer you use an appliance with a faulty heating system.

Troubleshooting Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking: Expert Tips

Before calling for professional service, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take when dealing with the heavy light issue:

Confirm it’s actually the “Heavy” light blinking

• Samsung dishwashers have multiple lights on the control display. Make sure the light labeled explicitly as “Heavy” is what’s blinking. If it’s another indicator light, reference your user manual to interpret that specific light.

Check error codes

• In addition to blinking lights, Samsung dishwashers may display error codes on the control panel. Check if your machine shows a numerical code and look it up in your owner’s manual. The code may indicate exactly which part needs replacement – the heating element or the thermistor.

Inspect the heating element

• To inspect the heating element, remove the dishwasher’s filter system. Check if the heating element wires are properly connected or if it looks damaged.

Test the thermistor

• You’ll need a multimeter to test the thermistor. Touch the multimeter to the thermistor terminals and see if it provides the correct electrical resistance reading (usually around 5 kΩ). If not, it needs replacing.

Reset dishwasher’s control board

• Over time, static electrical build-ups might “confuse” the control board. Resetting clears the memory, which may stop the heavy light from blinking. Refer to instructions in the owner’s manual on how to properly reset the control panel.

If none of those troubleshooting tips stop the heavy blinking light, replacement parts are likely needed – specifically the heating element, thermistor, or control board.

Fixing the Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking Issue

If you are faced with the annoying issue of the Samsung dishwasher heavy light blinking, follow these steps to fix it:

1. Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

Shut off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Turn off the water supply line connected to the dishwasher inlet valve.

2. Remove the Lower Dish Rack

Pull out the lower dish rack so you have access to the bottom of the dishwasher tub.

3. Remove Filter System

Twist filter counter-clockwise to unlock it then lift it out. Rinse filters under the tap to remove debris.

4. Check Heating Element

Inspect the heating element at the bottom of the tub and verify wires are plugged in properly. If damaged replace the heating element.

5. Test Thermistor

Use a multimeter to check thermistor resistance. If not around 5 kΩ, replace the thermistor.

6. Reinstall Components

Reinstall the filter system, and dish rack and reconnect power/water.

7. Reset Control Board

With the dishwasher powered off, press and hold the heated dry button then power the dishwasher on to reset the control board.

The heavy light should stop blinking once you’ve checked the heating element, and thermistor and reset the board. If heavy light still blinks the control board likely needs replacing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Trying to fix the Samsung dishwasher heavy light issue without fully disconnecting the power. Failing to thoroughly clean the dishwasher filter system. Not having the right electrical testing tools. Using harsh chemicals or cleaners that could further damage internal components. Attempting control board resets while dishwasher is still on.

Tips to Prevent Issue Reoccurring

• Clean filter/inspect heating element monthly
• Use dishwasher cleaner monthly
• Hand wash items, not dishwasher safe
• Ensure proper dishwasher detergent
• Don’t over/underload the dishwasher

Maintaining and Preventing the Samsung Dishwasher Heavy Light Blinking Issue

Proper maintenance and operation of your Samsung dishwasher can help avoid issues with the heavy blinking light associated with heating problems down the road.

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Performance

• Clean filter monthly
• Use the correct amount of rinse aid
• Fill the rinse aid reservoir when low
• Only use recommended dishwasher detergents
• Ensure proper water pressure in the dishwasher
• Do not overload the dishwasher
• Make sure dishes are loaded correctly

Common Causes and Prevention of Heavy Light Blinking

Water flow issues:

• Check for kinks in the water supply line
• Clean water inlet valve filters
• Confirm adequate water pressure

Drainage issues:

• Clean or replace the drain pump filter
• Check for clogs or kinks in the drain hose

Heating system issues:

• Inspect heating element
• Test thermistor
• Replace the control board if faulty

Expert Advice on Prolonging Dishwasher Lifespan

“Preventative maintenance is crucial for your dishwasher to last over 10 years. Beyond cleaning the filters, inspect door seals and mounting brackets yearly. Catching small leaks early prevents major damage. Use a water leak sensor as an extra precaution.”

“Avoid cramming dishwasher to max capacity. Overloading strains the motor and heating systems. Only wash dishwasher-safe items to prevent clogged drains too.”

“Invest in a water softener if you have hard water, and use a monthly dishwasher cleaner to prevent scale build-up and keep wash arms debris-free.”

FAQs

• Why is my Samsung dishwasher heavy light blinking?

The heavy light blinking on a Samsung dishwasher typically indicates an issue with the heating element or thermistor that regulates internal wash and rinse water temperatures.

• What causes the heavy light to blink?

A faulty heating element, damaged thermistor, bad control board, or power surge can cause blinking of the heavy light due to failure to properly heat water during the cycle.

• How can I fix my Samsung dishwasher heavy light issue?

Fixing this issue involves inspecting the heating element wires, testing thermistor resistance values, and resetting the control board. If that doesn’t work, part replacement of the heating element, thermistor, or control board is likely needed.

• What happens if I keep using my dishwasher with this heavy light blinking?

Continuing to use the dishwasher with heavy light blinking can result in incomplete cleaning and sanitization of dishes. Also, risk of water leakage or more damage to the dishwasher over time.

• Does the heavy light blinking cause a leak?

Not directly. However, prolonged exposure to excess moisture and humidity due to heating issues can degrade door seals and cause water leaks.

• How much does it cost to repair the heavy light issue?

Repair costs vary depending on the specific faulty part and technician fees to test parts and make replacements. Anywhere from $150-$350 is typical.

• How can I prevent the heavy blinking light problem?

Regularly clean the dishwasher filter, use recommended detergents per manual instructions, do not overload the dishwasher, and inspect the heating element and thermistor yearly. Also, use a dishwasher cleaner monthly.

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Conclusion

If you notice your Samsung dishwasher is displaying a blinking heavy light, it likely indicates a problem with the heating system that requires attention. Failing to properly heat water during wash cycles impacts cleaning performance.

Following troubleshooting steps to inspect the heating element, test the thermistor, and reset the control board may resolve the problem. But replacement of damaged parts is frequently needed in cases of heavy light blinking.

With the proper maintenance tips provided, you can prevent premature failure of heating components. Schedule service promptly when the heavy indicator light blinks so your Samsung dishwasher can continue washing dishes to its fullest potential.