Quick answer
First check power and the socket, then that the door is fully closed, Child Lock is off, the water tank is empty and seated (on condenser and heat-pump dryers), and Delay End isn’t set. A code such as dE, 9E or AE points the way.
Overview
Before starting a cycle the board checks several conditions: power at a suitable voltage, door closed, water tank ready, and no tripped thermal protection. Any missing condition blocks the start.
So we split this into two cases: a completely dark display (power or board), and a working display where the programme won’t start (door, lock, tank, delay or protection).
Likely causes
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1
Power or socket
A dead socket, tripped breaker or weak extension lead. With voltage fluctuations 9E may appear.
Related parts: Wiring & connectors
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2
Door not closed or faulty switch
Trapped clothes or an unseated filter stop the door closing; a faulty switch shows dE.
Related parts: Door switch
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3
Child Lock or Delay End
Child Lock blocks the buttons, and Delay End makes the dryer wait before starting.
Related parts: Display & button board
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4
Water tank full or not fitted
On condenser and heat-pump dryers, an “Empty water” reminder or unseated tank stops operation.
Related parts: Water tank & condensate pump
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5
Tripped thermal protection
After overheating, thermal protection can cut out so the dryer won’t run or heat until inspected.
Related parts: Thermostats & thermal fuse
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6
Display or main board
A stuck button (bE), board communication fault (AE) or power-supply circuit failure.
Related parts: Display & button boardControl board
Safe checks before calling a technician
Unplug the dryer and let it cool before any check. Don’t run it if you notice a burning smell or smoke, and don’t open the back or side panels — they hide heating elements and high-voltage wiring.
- Confirm the socket works with another appliance and the breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Plug the dryer directly into an earthed wall socket — no extension lead.
- Open the door, clear any clothing caught at the frame, make sure the lint filter is seated, and close it firmly.
- If a lock icon shows, cancel Child Lock by holding its button (see your model’s manual).
- Make sure Delay End isn’t set.
- On condenser and heat-pump dryers, empty the water tank and push it back until it clicks.
- Unplug for 10 minutes, then restart.
Parts involved
Door switch
Confirms the door is closed; without it the dryer won’t start.
Water tank & condensate pump
Collects condensed water via a small pump; a full tank stops the dryer.
Thermostats & thermal fuse
Safety devices that cut heating when temperature rises too high; the thermal fuse can blow after an airflow blockage.
Display & button board
The interface where you choose programmes and see time and error codes.
Control board
Runs programmes, reads temperature and moisture sensors, and drives the motor and heating.
Wiring & connectors
Link components to the board; moisture or rubbing can cause breaks or shorts.
When should you call a technician?
- The display stays dark although the socket works.
- dE shows with the door properly closed.
- AE or 9E keeps appearing.
- You hear a click or hum on Start but the drum doesn’t move.
- The dryer stopped after a burning smell.
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.
Related error codes
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dryer light up but not start?
Usually the door isn’t fully closed, Child Lock is on, the water tank is full or Delay End is set. Check them in that order.
Can the lint filter stop the dryer starting?
On some models, yes — an unseated filter can stop the door closing, so the dryer won’t start.
Does an extension lead affect the dryer?
Yes — dryers draw high current and extensions can cause voltage drop and hot plugs. A direct earthed wall socket is best.