Is your Samsung rotary dishwasher flashing the ‘Auto’ and ‘Heavy’ cycle lights and disrupting your dishwashing routine? This frustrating issue can stem from various factors, preventing your dishwasher from completing its wash cycle effectively. Understanding the potential causes and knowing how to troubleshoot them can save you time and the cost of a service call. Let’s explore common reasons behind this error and guide you through repair steps.
Often, an interrupted wash cycle, especially during intensive programs like ‘Auto’ or ‘Heavy’, can be linked to imbalances or blockages within your dishwasher system. Just as a washing machine might struggle with high-speed spins when off-balance, a dishwasher can encounter issues during demanding cycles if something is amiss.
One of the first things to check is the dishwasher’s leveling. Ensure your dishwasher sits evenly on the floor. An unlevel machine can cause vibrations and operational errors, potentially triggering flashing lights and cycle interruptions, particularly during longer or more intense cycles like ‘Auto’ and ‘Heavy’.
Next, examine the filters. A clogged filter is a common culprit in dishwasher malfunctions. Food debris and buildup can restrict water flow, leading to inefficient cleaning and potentially causing error signals like the ‘Auto’ and ‘Heavy’ lights flashing. Regularly cleaning the filters at the bottom of your dishwasher is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
Another area to investigate is the drainage system. Similar to how a washing machine relies on proper drainage for its spin cycle, a dishwasher needs to drain efficiently to complete its wash programs. Check for any kinks or obstructions in the drain hose. Ensure the hose is properly connected and clear of any blockages that might be hindering water drainage.
If these basic checks don’t resolve the flashing ‘Auto’ and ‘Heavy’ lights, the problem might be related to the dishwasher’s internal components, possibly including the Printed Circuit Board (PCB). While PCBs don’t have moving parts, they are the brains of your dishwasher, controlling all its functions.
PCBs can sometimes become problematic due to several factors:
- Moisture Exposure: Water leaks or excessive humidity can damage the PCB, leading to short circuits or malfunctions. Ensure there are no water leaks around your dishwasher.
- Solder Joint Issues: Over time, especially in appliances subjected to temperature changes and vibrations, solder joints on the PCB can develop cracks. This can disrupt the electrical connections and cause operational errors.
- Capacitor Problems: Capacitors are electronic components that store energy and are vital for PCB function. Cheap or aging capacitors can fail, bulge, or leak, leading to PCB malfunction.
While PCB issues might sound complex, some basic troubleshooting can be done. Visually inspect the PCB (if accessible and you are comfortable doing so after disconnecting power). Look for signs of water damage, cracked solder joints, or bulging capacitors. However, PCB repair is generally best left to qualified technicians due to the delicate nature of electronics.
In conclusion, if your Samsung rotary dishwasher is flashing the ‘Auto’ and ‘Heavy’ lights and interrupting cycles, start with simple checks: ensure the dishwasher is level, clean the filters, and inspect the drain hose. If the problem persists, it could indicate a more complex issue, potentially involving the PCB. For advanced troubleshooting or PCB repairs, it’s advisable to consult a qualified appliance repair technician to diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.
