How to Reset Appliance Error Codes: Step-by-Step for Every Brand

Before you call a technician, try resetting the error code. Many error codes are temporary — caused by a power surge, a door that was opened mid-cycle, or a momentary sensor glitch. A reset clears the code and lets you see if the problem is real.

Universal Power Reset (Works on Most Brands)

1. Unplug the appliance from the wall outlet
2. Wait 5 minutes (this drains the capacitors on the control board)
3. For fridges with a water line: shut off the water valve
4. Plug the appliance back in
5. Run a short test cycle
6. If the error code returns, the problem is real and needs repair

Brand-Specific Reset Procedures

Samsung

Washer/Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press and hold "Options" + "Start/Pause" for 3 seconds. The display should clear.

Refrigerator: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The fridge will run a startup cycle. Error codes should clear if the problem was temporary.

LG

Washer/Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press and hold "Cycle" + "Start/Pause" for 5 seconds. Or: press and hold "Options" for 5 seconds.

Refrigerator: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The fridge will run a startup cycle.

Whirlpool

Washer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. If the error persists, press "Cancel" twice, then "Pause/Cancel" twice. The display should clear.

Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press "Cancel" twice. The display should clear.

Refrigerator: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The fridge will run a startup cycle.

GE / Maytag

Washer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press "Cancel" twice. The display should clear.

Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press "Cancel" twice.

Refrigerator: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The fridge will run a startup cycle. For GE Smart Fridges: use the GE Appliances app to reset the control board.

Bosch / Siemens

Dishwasher: Turn off the dishwasher at the wall switch. Wait 5 minutes. Turn it back on. Press "Start/Reset" once. The display should clear.

Washer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The display should clear on startup.

Frigidaire / Amana

Washer/Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The display should clear on startup. If not, press "Cancel" twice.

Refrigerator: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. The fridge will run a startup cycle.

Speed Queen

Washer/Dryer: Unplug for 5 minutes. Plug back in. Press "Cancel" or "Power" to clear the display.

When a Reset Won't Work

If the error code persists after a power reset, one of these is happening:

• A component has failed (motor, heating element, sensor, pump)
• A sensor is giving a false reading (thermistor, pressure switch, water level sensor)
• The control board itself is faulty
• A wiring connection is loose or corroded

For step-by-step repair procedures, see our Repair Guide.