Quick answer
Most common causes: a plate or tray stopping the lid opening, damp clumped detergent sticking to the dispenser, or the lid not closed properly. If it stays shut with nothing in the way, the opening mechanism or its switch needs checking.
Overview
The dishwasher opens the dispenser lid automatically at a set point in the programme, then the spray carries detergent into the tub. If the lid doesn’t open, or water doesn’t reach it, the detergent stays put.
Check this whenever cleaning results suddenly drop.
Likely causes
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1
Something blocking the lid
A tray, chopping board or pan handle in the lower rack in front of the dispenser stops it opening.
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2
Damp, clumped detergent
Storing detergent near the sink or somewhere damp makes it clump and stick.
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3
Wet dispenser when filled
Putting a tablet in a wet dispenser makes it stick.
Related parts: Detergent & rinse-aid dispenser
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4
Spray not reaching the dispenser
A clogged or stuck arm doesn’t spray that area, so detergent doesn’t dissolve.
Related parts: Spray arms
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5
Failed opening mechanism
The lid catch or the electrical actuator can fail, or not receive the command from the board.
Related parts: Detergent & rinse-aid dispenserMain control board
Safe checks before calling a technician
Unplug the dishwasher before any check, and close its tap if there is a leak. Wear gloves when checking the sump in case of broken glass, and don’t open the side or bottom panels.
- Make sure nothing in the lower rack stands in front of the dispenser.
- Dry the dispenser before filling, and store detergent somewhere dry and sealed.
- Close the lid until it clicks.
- Spin the lower arm by hand and clean its nozzles.
- Put the tablet in the dispenser — not the basket or tub floor — unless your manual says otherwise.
Parts involved
Detergent & rinse-aid dispenser
Holds detergent and releases it at the right time, and doses rinse aid in the final rinse.
Spray arms
Rotating arms with small nozzles that spray the dishes; blocked nozzles or collisions weaken cleaning.
Main control board
Runs the programmes and drives pumps, valve and heater based on sensor readings.
When should you call a technician?
- The lid never opens with nothing in the way.
- The lid catch or hinge is broken.
- The lid won’t close or latch.
Need a Samsung repair technician?
Send us the model, the error code and a description of the fault — or book a technician visit in Amman, Zarqa, Salt, Madaba or Sahab.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I put the dishwasher tablet?
In the detergent dispenser, unless your manual says otherwise for a specific programme.
Why does the tablet only partly dissolve?
The programme may be too short or cold, or the spray isn’t reaching the dispenser. Try a longer programme or fast-dissolving detergent.
Can I put detergent straight into the tub?
Generally not recommended — most of it drains away in the first stage before the main wash.