How to Reset a Samsung TV

This article explains how to reset the picture, sound, SmartHub, and network connection settings on Samsung TVs. Also included are instructions for a total reset, how to reset via Remote Management, and how to reset non-smart Samsung TVs.

Reset Picture Settings

This option resets your color, brightness, contrast, and other picture related settings back to the factory defaults. This comes in handy if you've made manual adjustments to the picture, but don't like the result and can't get the settings back to where you started. A picture settings reset does not change any other TV settings.

To reset the picture, select Settings > the Picture Settings icon > Expert Settings > Reset Picture.

Reset Sound Settings

This option resets your sound-related settings such as Balance, Equalizer adjustments, TV installation type (wall/stand), HDMI audio format, Audio delay, and Auto Volume back to the factory defaults.

Just as with picture settings, if you've made manual adjustments to the sound settings, but don't like the result, the Reset Sound option will take you back to the TV's original sound settings. Resetting the sound settings does not change any other TV settings.

To reset the sound settings, select Settings > the Sound Settings icon > Expert Settings > Reset Sound.

Reset the Smart Hub and Samsung Account Settings

If you have a Samsung Smart TV, a Smart Hub reset returns those settings to their factory defaults and deletes all information related to your Samsung account. After a Smart Hub Reset, you will have to relink your account to any services and re-establish Smart Hub service agreements.

Although pre-loaded streaming apps are retained, any apps you've previously added to your My Apps viewing selection will have to be downloaded and installed again.

To reset the Smart Hub settings, go to Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Reset Smart Hub.

Total Reset

The most comprehensive reset option you can do is a total reset of the TV. When initiated, all picture, sound, smart hub, and other operational features, such as any broadcast channels saved, are reset to default settings.

To perform a total reset, go to Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Reset.

Reset Network Connection

If you are having network or internet connection issues there is, unfortunately, no reset option. If your network connection fails to stream video properly, and if you're connecting to your network using Wi-Fi, try a wired Ethernet connection, if possible; it's often more stable for video streaming.

If your general internet access is not working via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, or if your TV displays any network error codes (for example, error code 012 means your TV isn't connecting Netflix's servers) try the TV's network setup steps to re-establish the connection to see if that works.

If connecting to your network/internet via Ethernet: Go to Settings > Open Network Settings > Wired and wait for confirmation that the connection has been secured.

If connecting to your network/internet via Wi-Fi: Go to Settings > Open Network Settings > Wireless and follow the prompts to enter your network information (select network, enter network password or key, etc).

Reset TV via Remote Management

In addition to the options you have to reset your TV yourself, you can also have Samsung check your TV and perform all reset functions remotely. In other words, have Samsung take control of your TV.

1. Call Samsung Tech service and ask for Remote Support. Make sure you have the model, serial number, and, if possible, the TVs software version ready. The agent will also ask you additional questions on what the possible problem is.

2. Open the Support menu on your TV and select Remote Management.

3. Read the service agreements and enter your Samsung Account PIN Number. If you don't have a PIN, enter 0s.

4. Once the Samsung service agent is able to take control of your TV, they will do one or more of the following:

   • Diagnose the TV.
   • Adjust the TV's picture, sound, and/or smart hub settings.
   • Initiate a Factory Reset.
   • Install any needed software/firmware updates.
   • Provide any further guidance on whether onsite or carry-in service is required.

Reset Options for Non-Smart Samsung TVs

If you have a non-smart TV or an older pre-smart Samsung TV, you can reset the picture and sound settings through a similar onscreen menu as a Smart TV, but there's no Smart Hub or Remote Management option as the TV doesn't have internet capabilities.

If a Total Reset option is provided, the TV will roll-back the picture and sound settings, channel menu settings, clock and timer settings, and other settings the user may have changed. Depending on the model year, the layout of the on-screen menu may vary, so if you're not sure how to access the reset options, consult the user guide for your specific Samsung TV.

The Bottom Line

The reset options provided by Samsung for its TVs may be exactly what you need to get everything working again. However, before you initiate any reset yourself or take advantage of the Remote Management option, check the following:

• Make sure physical connections are correct and firmly attached.
• If you have a Samsung Smart TV, check your network/internet connection.
• Make sure you've installed the latest firmware update for your TV.
• If your TV isn't responding to your remote, replace the batteries and see if it works again with your TV.