How to troubleshoot a Samsung dryer displaying error code dF

Is your Samsung dryer displaying error code dF? Don’t worry, this is a problem that you can fix yourself without the need for a costly service call and we’re here to help you do it!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply exactly to your specific appliance model. For the most accurate guidance, it’s best to check your manufacturer’s documentation or reach out to us if you have any questions.

What the error code means

The dF error code on Samsung dryers indicates an issue with the door or latch mechanism, meaning the door is not closing properly. The error can be caused by an obstruction preventing the door from closing fully, such as lint buildup.  

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

Troubleshooting steps

Clear any obstructions

1. Fully open the door and check for any lint or obstructions that may be preventing it from closing properly.
2. Inspect the door latch, door and hinge for any damage.
3. If necessary, clean the door area with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Make sure the lint filter is inserted correctly. 
5. Close the dryer door firmly and try restarting the cycle to see if the error code reappears.

Test the door switch for continuity

1. Unplug the dryer from its power source for safety.
2. Open the dryer door fully and remove any screws holding the front panel in place using a screwdriver.
3. Carefully detach the front panel from the dryer cabinet by lifting it up and away.
4. Locate the door switch assembly or wiring harness connected to it.
5. Disconnect any wires connecting them from their terminals using pliers, making sure to note their position for reinstallation purposes later.
6. Set your multimeter to the continuity or resistance (Ω) setting. 
7. Place the multimeter’s probes on the two terminals of the door switch. With the door open, the multimeter should display a low resistance (usually close to 0 Ω), indicating continuity.
8. Close the dryer door and test the door switch again. With the door closed, the multimeter should display a higher resistance (typically infinity or “OL”), indicating no continuity.
9. If the door switch has continuity with the door open and no continuity with the door closed, the switch is functioning correctly. If the results are different, the door switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Replace the door switch

1. If the door switch tests bad or the error continues to appear, the door switch will need to be replaced. 
2. Remove any bolts securing the door switch assembly or wiring harness in place using a wrench or socket wrench.
3. Replace with a new door switch assembly or wiring harness that matches your Samsung dryer model number, ensuring that all wires are correctly reconnected to their corresponding terminals.
4. Reattach any screws or bolts removed earlier in reverse order before closing your front panel back into place.
5. Restore power and test if the error code is gone.

Read more: 9 Ways To Improve Your Dryer’s Performance  

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Samsung dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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