How to Fix White (Bright) Spots on Samsung TV

White spots on your Samsung TV can distract you from watching your favorite shows. And sometimes it becomes pretty annoying when it appears bright white. How to Deal with it? You are not alone in facing the bright white spots on your Samsung TV; users share their grievances on Reddit, Twitter, Samsung Community, etc.

The problem is usual for LED TVs. Samsung also has these issues, but it is recoverable. However, the best solution is to use the warranty. All Samsung product comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Yes, you can replace your TV if these white spots appear within the warranty period. Samsung also offers a seamless extended warranty feature for electronic devices. Find out more details on the official website of Samsung.

In this article, we discuss the white spots issue in Samsung TV. Along with the causes and the possible fixes, you can try to fix your Samsung TV.

What are White (Brights) Spots on Samsung TV?

Samsung TV screen can have several White spots or dots, making your screen undelightful over some time. This causes users to watch shows on the big screen that are visually unpleasant. Depending on the severity, the number of white spots can vary. As you can see in the image below, the user from Reddit shares his TV image where several white spots can be seen. Now, multiple causes are there for why these dots have formed. Those are explained below! But can those white dots be treated? This article will discuss methods to eliminate distracting white marks from your TV screen.

 

What is the reason for the white spots on Samsung TV?

You must understand LED TV working principles while looking for the reason behind these white dots. Here, let us know the main process related to the problem.

According to the processed input signal, an LED backlight array emits light in an LED TV. These lights are then distributed evenly on the LCD screen, which creates the visual image on the screen. In between the LED backlights and LCD, there is an important component called a diffuser, which evenly distributes the controlled emitted lights into the LCD screen.

Note that without the Diffuser, the lights concentrate on a particular screen area. Which eventually creates bright spots. This may be the root cause of White Spots on your Samsung TV, which answers you seek. The Diffuser, over some time, may fall out or be displaced from their respective position. To confirm if the problem is related to the Diffuser, gently tilt your TV side by side (left and right). If you hear any sound like some item rolling each time you tilt, the fuser lens might be detached from its position.

However, there are some other reasons behind appearing the White dots on your TV-

• Dead or Hot Pixels can cause the screen to stick with a single color, often White.
• Issues with LED Strips can cause the backlight to create uneven illuminations.
• Software Updates can sometimes indirectly affect the TV Screen to create White spots.

Run a Picture TEST: Check how severe is the problem

Samsung TV has a picture test feature allowing you to run a self-diagnostic test on your TV. This is a simple way to confirm whether the problem is with the TV, signal strength, or anything else. Depending on the model, your setting interface may vary; since the article is not focusing on that point, we share a few useful links below. However, for your convenience, the steps are explained below.

Samsung TV (model After 2015):

Step 1:

On your remote, find and Press the Home Button. Now scroll left using the remote and select settings.

Step2:

Now navigate to Support> Device Care options

Step 3:

Now select the Self-Diagnosis Option. In the Self Diagnosis screen, you will get the option to test various components of the Samsung TV(like Picture test, audio test, HDMI Troubleshooting, etc, as shown in the image below). Navigate to the PICTURE Test and Press the Enter Button on the remote.

Step 4:

Confirm the Picture test by pressing the OK button on the TV Screen. As soon as you press the OK button, you will be shown an image of vibrant colors for five seconds. Check whether the White spots on the TV appear or any abnormality in the image is noticed.

Step 5:

If the Picture test is completed, you will be asked if the image shown looks normal. If any abnormality occurs, you select “NO”; otherwise, select “YES.” However, Samsung TV cannot fix the issue independently, so it will ask to contact Samsung support. The TV model code, software version, and serial number will pop up; note the details and contact support.

In case your TV model is not the same as the interface shared above, follow the links below-

• Samsung TV (K Series) Picture Test Tutorial
• Samsung TV (Model 2014 to 2023 ) Picture TEST Tutorial

After the Picture Test, you must decide what to do next if no abnormality is found. Either you have to take harsh steps like disassembling the TV or calling for Support to fix the issue. Since the self-diagnosis failed to interpret the error, and white spots are still visible, you have to look into the specific points explained earlier.

Troubleshooting White Spots on Samsung TVs

Now that you have understood the reason behind the White spot, it will be easier to fix that particular cause. However, note that Samsung does not recommend opening your TV in an unauthorized hand if you want to avail the warranty. For these fixes explained below, you need to open up your TV. Therefore, if you have any available warranty period, use it, or it will be assumed void.

Update Software

The white spot doesn’t need to be due to any Hardware issue. It could be an issue indirectly caused by software or firmware. Software is not directly related to the physical components of the TV or could create a problem with the display. However, they can be a contributing factor as they can control the input video signals and display settings.

Moreover, Outdated software could cause glitches. Therefore, opening up your TV first, try to check whether your Samsung TV software is up to date.

Follow the steps below to update your Samsung TV:

• On your TV remote, press the Home button
• Navigate to your settings
• Go to Support
• After that, navigate to Software Update

• Next, select the Update Now option and press enter on your remote

• It might take a while to check the software update,
• If any update is available, you can download and install the updates.

Note: You can select the Auto-update option so that your TV automatically updates itself when connected to WiFi.

After the Update, reset your TV by unplugging it. Check whether the white spot issue is resolved. If not, then you can perform a factory reset.

Follow the steps to factory reset your Samsung TV:

Depending on the TV series, the Reset option may vary. Here Below few steps are shown for the K, M, N, R, and T series-

• Navigate to HOME> Settings
• Select Support and then navigate to Self-diagnosis
• Found the RESET option and press the ‘OK’ button on your remote
• Enter the four-digit TV PIN (Which is “0000”  as default settings)
• Confirm the Reset by selecting the YES option

You must open your TV for further inquiry if the issue is unresolved.

CAUTION!!! Make sure you can handle it on your own because disassembling a TV is not an easy task. The process may vary depending on the model and design, so read the manual first. However, it is better to seek help from a friend with little knowledge about disassembling a TV. Otherwise, you will have permanent damage to your TV, which may be easily recoverable by a professional.

How to attach the Diffuser back to Samsung TV:

Attaching the Diffuser could take a couple of hours. Therefore, make all the necessary preparations in advance to avoid any mistakes. Make sure you have the proper tool to disassemble your TV. Your workspace should be organized, or else it will delay the process of fixing your TV. Here are a couple of things you need to grab before trying the fixes-

• A flat Table or packaging foam comes with the TV package to support the TV
• Star/plus/Philips and Flat Screwdrivers of different sizes
• Putty Knife or flat plastic spudger to open the TV Covers
• Suction cups (optional)
• Paper Labels to mark
• Compartment tray to keep the screw so that you don’t need to look for the screw later
• Safety gloves and glasses
• Glue Gun and Super Glue

The work process will be divided into three major parts- Disassembling, Attaching the Diffuser, and reassembling.

NOTE: Here, we have taken the direct backlit (Full Array) LED TV as an example to explain the process. The process can vary depending on which backlight technology you are using. Some TVs’ LED Strip or array was mounted on the edge side, categorizing them as edge-lit LED TVs. The LED strip or array mounted on the rear of the TV is categorized as the direct backlit LED TV. For more information, you can visit this link and read this article.

Dismantling Samsung TV:

Before dismantling the Samsung TV, read the article (link shared above) to learn about the components. Also, gather all the abovementioned tools and work in an environment with sufficient lights. Don’t forget the safety protocol; wear the glasses and gloves. Now follow the steps below-

• Begin the process by disconnecting your TV from the Power source and HDMI cable Connections (if any).
• If the TV was mounted on the wall, dismantle it from the support cabinet. If it was on the top stand, remove the stand.
• After that, carefully place the TV face down, as shown in the image below, and start unscrewing from the back. Use the Tray to keep the screws, as they can easily be misplaced. Note that you need to put all the screws back where they belong, so pay attention now.

• Once done, remove the back Panel or rear cover gently. Check for any burning smells or burn spots on the main circuit board.
• Now put the rear cover without screwing it and flip the TV (Without the rear cover, don’t flip it, or it can damage the Circuit board). Meanwhile, disconnect all the wired cables.
• We need to open up now from the front; there will be two major units- The display unit and the Backlight Unit. Since we will reattach the Diffuser, all our work will be in the Backlight Unit.

Dissemble the Display and Backlight Unit:

• Now, with the help of a Putty knife or plastic spudger (you can also use an ATM Card) to pull apart or pry the side frame or Bezel of the TV, start from the corner. Do not apply extra force while dismantling the frame. Check for the locks and pry gently to open the locks first.
• Once the frame was removed, mark them by labeling each side,
• In some LED TV models, you might have a protective bezel separately surrounding the Display unit. Remove the bezel first.
• Next, you need to locate and disconnect the ribbon cable of the LCD Unit from the driver board. Make sure to label it! Lift the LCD unit with the help of a Suction Cup and place it somewhere carefully for later use. Note that the display unit is a fragile component.
• Now that you have removed the display unit, it’s time to remove the rest of the frame and reach the Backlight Unit. There is another frame holding the backlight unit together. Based on the model, they are secure with screws, locking mechanisms, or Clips. Try to find out which one you have and carefully remove the frame. Note that this frame is very thin and could break if unpacked without caution.
• As soon as the frame is removed, you will have the Light diffusing panel, which can be easily removed. Again, don’t forget to label it for later reference.

Reattaching the Diffuser Lenses:

• The detached Diffuser lens makes rattling sounds once the Light Diffusing panel is removed.
• Collect the Lenses and check the rest by pulling gently. Loosely attached lenses will fall apart. You do not want to dissemble your TV again, so check the remaining lenses carefully. Clean the lenses before reattaching them.

NOTE: While inspecting the diffuser lens, check for any burning evidence. If such a burned LED is found, you must remove the reflector sheet for further inspection of the LED Strips, which is explained below.

• With the help of the Super Glue (it should be transparent) and toothpick, glue the diffuser lens back with the LEDs. You might have the previous gluing spots glued only in that part. Avoid gluing on the area of the LED lights. Apply a minimal amount to ensure it is attached to the LED Strip.

Note: Diffuser lenses play an important role in screening images, therefore their position matters. A slight displacement can scatter light in other directions. Eventually can create an unpleasant screen.

• Once all the diffuser lenses are attached, use the glue gun to glue them side by side (apply a small amount).

Reassembling Samsung TV:

Now, it’s time to reverse the process! All the Screws on the Tray and label will help you to put back all the components. Follow the steps below-

• First of all, put back the white light diffusing Panel. Ensure that the Panel is put together in a level position and the correct order as labeled. Put the frame back and secure the clips or screw or lock.
• Get the Crystal display and put it back in its position carefully. If needed, apply a little pressure with a damp cloth or towel to fit in the position. And place back the frame to hold all units together.
• Reconnect the ribbon cable to the respective circuit from where it was disconnected.
• Now, carefully put back the Mainframe to hold all the units together and tie the respective screw in the correct position.
• Once you reinstalled everything together, it’s time to test if the White spot is gone.
• Supply the power source to the TV and Connect the HDMI cable.
• Examine if the white spot has gone. In most cases, the problem should be eliminated by now.

NOTE: We have explained the steps, but some points might be left behind. Depending on the model, the LED TV locking mechanism may vary. Therefore, the best practice is to dissemble TV with professional hands.

Useful Link: Watch the YouTube video Fixing the Diffuser on Samsung TV

Replacing the LED Strip

The problem might be with the LED backlight array if you find no loose diffuser lens. LED TV backlight LED array can be burned sometimes due to overvoltages or current. Usually, a burning spot on the reflector sheet is noticed or on the edge of the sheet. Check out the image below-

In such a case, there is only one option left, which is to replace the whole LED backlight Array. Follow these steps to replace the LED Strip-

STEP 1: Preparation

From the above Fix, you have learned the importance of advance preparation. It can minimize the hard work and also save time. Below is the list of Tools and preparations you need to make before replacing the LED strip-

• LED Strip as per your LED TV model number.
• Philips/Flat Screw Driver
• Nose pliers
• Safety Glass and GLoves
• Flat surfaced table with a towel
• Putty Knife
• Suction cup
• Tray or Tin container

STEP 2: Dismantling Samsung TV (Direct Backlit)

The process is similar to the diffuser lens fixes. However, your TV needs to open up further to reach the LED Strip in the Direct Backlit Model. Note that the process for the Edge Lit LED TV is almost similar, except their LED Strip or Array was mounted on the EDGE. Here are the steps-

• Dismantle your TV after unplugging it from the Power outlet and other connections.
• Place the TV face on the Flat surface of the table
• Using the appropriate screwdriver, unscrew from the back,
• Flip the TV, mind the main circuit unit. Use two packing boxes for Support without hampering the Circuit boards.
• Without any delay, remove the front frame using the putty knife. Don’t apply extra force; pry gently.
• Next, remove the ribbon cable connection from the display unit. Using a suction cup, pull apart the display unit, simultaneously prying the display unit with the help of a Putty knife or ATM Cards. Keep it in a safe place as it is fragile components. Meanwhile, label the unit positions for later reference.
• Now remove the supportive frame and keep it aside
• Remove the white Diffuser panel and reach the Backlight Unit.

Note: For Edge Lit LED TV, refer to these steps. However, for direct backlit LED TV, proceed with the steps below.

• You must first remove the White Protective Cap to remove the Reflector sheet. Use a nose plier to pull the cap gently, or you can pinch it behind the Bottom chassis.
• Now, gently peel off the reflector sheet and apply pressure with the putty knife or plastic spudger.

  

STEP 3: Replacing the LED Array or Strip

• Examine the full LED array mounted on the Bottom Aluminum Chassis. Check which LED Strip requires replacement.
• Make sure you are using the correct model LED Strip. You can compare both strips to see whether they matched before replacing them.
• In addition, take a picture of the LED Strip connection to the common cable for later reference while reassembling them.
• Disconnect the damaged LED Strip from the central cable.
• Now carefully peel off the LED Strip which has been found faulty.
• You can use a Flat Screwdriver.
• If it is not peeling off easily, apply Hot Air using a hair dryer. CAUTION!! Don’t overheat, as it can damage the Unit.
• Once the damaged LED Strip is removed, paste the new LED strip carefully to align it perfectly with the previous one. If there is no adhesive behind the LED Strip, you can use a thin double-side tap to fix on the edge or to the chassis.
• After that, Connect the LED strip with the central cable. Most importantly, check the connected wired positive and negative terminals. Moreover, you can take reference from the picture taken earlier.
• If your LED Strip does not come with the diffuser lens, attach the Diffuser Lens using the proper adhesive.
• Now, it is time to reassemble them all, reversing the process

STEP 4: Reassemble and turn on the TV

• Firstly, fix the reflector sheet in its place with the Protective Cap.
• Next, reassemble the white diffuser panel and fix it with the frame
• Ensure all the sides are evenly balanced and perfectly placed in their position.
• Carefully place the Display unit of the TV
• Fix the outer frame and screw from the back
• After reassembling the TV, plug it into the power supply and connect the HDMI cable.
• Turn on your TV and check whether the White Spot is eliminated.

Useful Links:

• Watch the YouTube video changing the LED strip of a curved screen Samsung TV.
• Another Video of Changing the LED Strip of a Flat Screen Samsung TV.

Fix the White spot due to Dead or Hot Pixels on Samsung TV:

Your TV can also have a bright white spot due to dead or hot pixels. There is a little difference, though, between the two causes.

In an LED TV, the screen is designed with a small unit named “pixel.” Each pixel can produce a specific color to display images. A dead pixel on a screen simply denotes the defective pixel, which is permanently turned off. These dead pixels create black or white spots on your TV. The ” dead ” pixel can be manufacturing defects or any physical damage to the screen.

Whereas a hot pixel is opposite to a dead pixel. It continuously sticks to a specific color that did not turn off when it should be. Mostly, this issue can occur due to sensor defects, signal interference, overreactive subpixels, due to stress for an extended period on that particular pixel, etc.

The solution to Dead and Hot Pixel:

However, when it comes to the solution there are a few possible fixes. To remove the White spot due to dead pixels the only solution is to change the LCD Screen. But seek help from a professional or call for customer care support.

Whereas. in case of hot pixels spots, you can try the steps below to fix it-

• If the TV is on Warranty, use it to exchange with a new one.
• If the hot pixel is created due to a signal issue, wait for a while; it automatically goes off,
• Restart your TV by unplugging it. After a time, plug it again.
• Another solution is to rub the Pixel area with a damp cloth gently. Suppose it is possible to use a pointed soft object like rubber. Remember not to apply much force while rubbing. It can damage the pixel.

If the issue remains as it is, call customer care support to resolve it or completely change the LCD Screen.

Conclusion:

Overall, we can conclude that the white spot problem is common for a TV. With your Samsung TV, you can have a similar issue. But it is a recoverable issue. However, the fixes must be handled with a skilled hand. Therefore, it is better to call Samsung Customer Care support or deal with the problem by getting help from a professional hand. We hope this article helps you remove the White Spots on your Samsung TV. Taking safety precautions as early as possible after purchasing a Samsung TV is always better. Also, you can extend the TV warranty period if the warranty period is over!

Also Read:

• How to Fix Black Screen Issue on Samsung TV
• How to Fix Channels Not Showing Up on Samsung TV