Samsung Smart Appliance Not Connecting or Operating

Common Causes

If your Samsung smart appliance (range, washer, dishwasher, dryer, or refrigerator) is not connecting to the SmartThings app or is experiencing operational issues related to its smart features, the problem usually stems from one of these causes:

• WiFi network incompatibility — the appliance requires a 2.4 GHz network but is being connected to a 5 GHz network
• WiFi password or network name changed — the appliance lost its saved connection settings
• Router too far away — appliances with metal enclosures have weaker WiFi reception
• SmartThings app not linked — the appliance was never added to the SmartThings app or was removed
• Firmware issue — outdated firmware may cause connectivity or smart feature problems
• Smart Control not enabled — some features require Smart Control or Remote Start to be activated on the appliance's control panel
• SmartThings cloud outage — a temporary server-side issue

Fixing WiFi Connection Issues

Step 1: Verify Your WiFi Network

1. Most Samsung smart appliances only support 2.4 GHz WiFi. If your router broadcasts a combined 2.4/5 GHz network, the appliance may struggle to connect.
2. Log into your router's admin panel and check if the 2.4 GHz band is enabled and broadcasting. If possible, create a separate SSID for the 2.4 GHz band.
3. Verify your WiFi password has not changed since the appliance was last connected.
4. Test WiFi signal strength at the appliance's location by checking speed on your phone while standing next to it.

Step 2: Reset the WiFi Connection on the Appliance

1. On the appliance's control panel, locate the Smart Control or WiFi button.
2. Press and hold it for three to five seconds until the WiFi indicator begins blinking. This puts the appliance into WiFi setup mode.
3. On some Samsung models, you may need to hold a specific combination of buttons. Refer to your appliance's user manual for the exact procedure.

Step 3: Reconnect Through the SmartThings App

1. Open the SmartThings app and tap the + icon, then Add Device.
2. Select Samsung and choose the appropriate appliance type.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to temporarily connect your phone to the appliance's own WiFi hotspot (usually named something like "Samsung_[Appliance Type]").
4. Select your home 2.4 GHz WiFi network and enter the password.
5. Wait for the connection to complete. The WiFi indicator on the appliance should turn solid.

Step 4: Improve WiFi Signal

If the appliance connects but frequently drops off:

• Move your router closer to the appliance, or add a WiFi extender or mesh node near the kitchen or laundry room.
• Metal appliance enclosures significantly reduce WiFi signal strength. A router in a different room may not provide adequate signal.
• Reduce WiFi congestion by disconnecting unused devices from your network.
• Check for wireless interference from microwaves, baby monitors, or cordless phones operating near the appliance.

Fixing Smart Feature and Operating Issues

Step 5: Enable Smart Control or Remote Start

1. Many Samsung appliance features require Smart Control or Remote Start to be enabled on the physical control panel before the SmartThings app can send commands.
2. For ranges: Enable Remote Start on the control panel before trying to preheat or control the oven remotely.
3. For washers and dishwashers: Load the appliance, add detergent, and press the Remote Start button before starting a cycle from the app.
4. Smart Control typically needs to be re-enabled each time for safety reasons.

Step 6: Update Firmware

1. In the SmartThings app, select your appliance and look for a firmware update option in the settings.
2. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it. The appliance must remain powered on and connected to WiFi during the update.
3. Firmware updates can fix connectivity bugs, add new features, and improve reliability.

Step 7: Power Cycle the Appliance

1. Unplug the appliance from its power outlet or turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Wait two to three minutes.
3. Restore power and wait for the appliance to fully restart.
4. Check the SmartThings app to see if the appliance reconnects.

When to Contact Samsung Support

• If the appliance's WiFi indicator never stops blinking and will not connect despite correct network settings, the WiFi module may be defective.
• If the appliance displays error codes on its control panel, note the codes and contact Samsung Support for diagnosis.
• Contact Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864 or through the SmartThings app for warranty and repair assistance.