Samsung smart remote blinking red

When you see your Samsung smart remote blinking red, it means the battery is low, or the remote is out of range.

It could also be due to other problems, such as a blocked IR sensor or a hardware defect. No matter the cause, this is a problem you can fix on your own.

To fix the blinking red light on Samsung smart remote, press the UP button and the back button on the remote at the same time. Hold them down for at least ten seconds or until the light stops flashing. The remote will re-pair with your TV and should start working again as normal.

What Causes Samsung Smart Remote Blinking Red?

If your Samsung smart remote starts flashing red lights, this could mean a few things.

It is best to identify the source of the issue to take the appropriate actions to fix it.

The most common causes include:

1. Weak or Dead Batteries

One of the reasons why your Samsung Smart Remote is blinking red is due to weak or dead batteries.

Sometimes, if the battery’s power level is not enough, you can also run into this issue. This can happen if you accidentally push a button for too long or a child is playing with the remote.

2. Rusty Battery Contacts

Another culprit of this issue is dirty batteries and rusty contacts. If the batteries are not properly settled in the battery compartment, this issue can occur.

Rusty contacts are not as efficient in conducting electricity, which is why your remote will not work.

3. Blocked IR Sensor

Even with a full battery charge and your TV is within range, you will surely get the blinking red light error if something is blocking the signal.

It could be a piece of dirt or oil residue on the IR sensor that’s blocking the signal.

4. Hardware Damage

If none of the above is causing your Samsung smart remote to flash red light, you may have a faulty device. There could be damage to the circuitry of your remote, which could be the reason you are experiencing this issue.

How to Fix Samsung Smart Remote Blinking Red

fix Samsung smart remote blinking red

When the red light starts to blink when using your Samsung remote control, it usually indicates a communication problem between the remote and your TV.

Until you resolve the issue, the Samsung Smart TV remote not working red light blinking continues.

Solution #1: Change the Batteries on Your Remote

Check your batteries when you encounter issues connecting the remote control to your TV. A rule of thumb is to replace the batteries every two to three years.

  1. Open the battery compartment.
  2. Pull out and discard the old ones.
  3. Put the new batteries into the compartment with their polarities correctly marked.
  4. Close the battery compartment.  

Ensure the new batteries match the remote-control unit—test whether it is working properly by connecting it with another device. In most cases, this should fix the issue.

Note: When changing your remote batteries, spend a little extra or opt for rechargeable ones.

They will last much longer, and you may end up saving a lot of money in the long run. Moreover, rechargeable batteries have less impact on the environment.

Solution #2: Check for Rusty or Dirty Battery Contacts

clean samsung remote

Before you insert new batteries, properly clean the battery compartment of your remote control to keep them working.

Rusty or dirty contacts obstruct the flow of electricity, which affects the performance of your device.

  1. Remove the battery door, then take out the batteries.
  2. Spray vinegar or lemon juice on the corrosion, and spread it.
  3. Scrub the corrosion away.
  4. Wipe the rust and clean the electrical contacts.
  5. Install the new batteries. 
Note: Clean the remote-control battery compartment once every six months.

You can also use rubbing alcohol instead of vinegar or lemon juice to remove grime and dust. 

Solution #3: Check for Obstructions with the Sensors

If you still have a Samsung Smart TV remote that’s blinking red after checking the usual suspects, something may be blocking the signal.

The sensor may be covered with something, such as soundbars, books, or even dirt.

Here’s what you can do to fix the issue:

  1. Remove the items in the way of your remote and TV.
  2. Point the Samsung remote directly at the TV receiver.
  3. Ensure the remote is 1-2 feet away from the IR sensor.
  4. Clean the sensor with a soft cloth or cotton swab.
Note: Do not use spray cleaners or any liquid to remove dust or residue from the IR sensor to prevent possible damage.

Solution #4: Re-Pair the Remote to Your TV

pair remote to samsung tv

When the Samsung remote starts blinking red, the most likely culprit is pairing issues.

You need to re-pair your devices again so that they can communicate again. You will need to download the SmartThings app or the Samsung My Remote app.

  1. Turn ON the TV.
  2. Press and hold the pairing button until the signal is sent.
  3. Find the Menu on your TV’s home screen and select it.
  4. Go to Settings.
  5. Select Bluetooth > Point-and-Remote > Point-and-Remote Pairing.
Note: The pairing process varies from model to model. Follow your specific Samsung TV and remote instructions for a seamless setup.

Solution #5: Does Your Remote Have Stuck Buttons

Dirt, grime, and oxidation build up over time, causing the remote buttons to get stuck.

Quickly press and release every button to dislodge whatever is causing the buttons to stick. If this doesn’t work, take your remote apart.

  1. Open the battery chamber and take away the batteries.
  2. Unscrew the screws and disassemble the front cover to access the circuit board.
  3. Rub the contacts to remove any oxidation using a rubber eraser.
  4. Clean the rubber contacts with a cotton swab soaked with isopropyl alcohol.
  5. Assemble the remote and tighten all screws.

Test your remote control and see if this solves the problem. Continue to the next step if the issue persists.

Solution #6: Perform a Factory Reset of Your TV

reset you samsung tv

If you have tried all of the above and not one seems to work, consider performing a factory reset of your Samsung TV.

It will restore your device to its default settings, so you will need to pair your remote again.

  1. Open the Settings, and select General.
  2. Select Reset and enter your PIN (default PIN is 0000).
  3. Select Reset.
  4. To complete the process, select OK.
  5. Your Samsung TV will restart automatically.
Note: Connect your Samsung Smart TV in the SmartThings app to control it remotely.

So long as there’s an Internet connection, you can turn on the TV, adjust the volume, change the channels, and perform other functions from your phone. 

If your Samsung smart TV remote is blinking red, try re-pairing the remote with your TV. Press and hold the pairing button up until the signal is sent. Find the menu icon and select it. Then, go to Settings > Bluetooth > Point-and-Remote to initiate pairing. You will see the remote and battery icon on the screen once done.  

Read Next: How to Get Now TV on Samsung TV?

Last Thoughts

If you encounter a Samsung smart remote blinking red issue, it means your remote stops communicating with your TV.

This article can help you figure out the cause and present you with solutions you can do on your own.

If the reason your Samsung remote stops working is a hardware issue, contact Samsung Service Center for further assistance.