Samsung TV Horizontal Lines on Screen? Know How to Fix

If you are a Samsung TV owner, you might have experienced the issue of horizontal lines on your TV screen.

Although Samsung TVs are known for their high-quality displays, horizontal lines can appear as green or black lines on the screen, which do not match the other pixels on the LED TV screen.

In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of this issue and provide some solutions to fix it.

We will cover the different types of horizontal lines that can occur on Samsung smart TVs, the possible causes of this issue, and advanced troubleshooting steps for expert users.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of this issue and how to fix it.

Key Takeaways

The possible causes of this issue include input cable connection issues, outdated firmware versions, and panel issues.
Solutions to fix this issue include performing a power cycle, updating the firmware, and factory resetting the TV.

Causes For Horizontal Lines on Samsung TV Screen

Input Cable Connection Issue

One of the most common reasons for horizontal lines on a Samsung Smart TV is a loose or damaged HDMI cable. Checking the input HDMI cable connection is the first step in resolving this issue.

To check the input cable connection, ensure that the input cable is connected to the correct input port. If the issue persists, try reconnecting the input cable to the correct input HDMI port or another input port.

Outdated Samsung TV Firmware Version

Another possible cause of horizontal lines on a Samsung Smart TV is an outdated firmware version. Updating your TV’s firmware version can help resolve this issue.

Software updates can include several fixes and improvements that can improve your TV’s performance. If you’re experiencing horizontal lines or other image problems, a software update may help you solve the problem.

Samsung TV Panel Issue

A panel issue is another common cause of horizontal lines on a Samsung Smart TV. If there is a problem with the hardware, it can also cause horizontal lines to appear on the screen.

If your Samsung TV screen has suffered physical damage, you should take it to a technician for repair.

If you have a new TV, the screen may just be dirty or dusty, and you can clean the Samsung TV Screen yourself. However, it is not recommended to peek into the panel yourself as it may cause further damage.

How to Fix Samsung TV Horizontal Lines on Screen?

Perform Power Cycle On Samsung TV

Performing a power cycle is an effective way to solve common TV problems. It is also a basic step to troubleshoot while you are trying to fix the horizontal lines, either black or colored lines, on Samsung TV’s display.

To perform the power cycle, unplug the power cord from the power source and keep it disconnected for 15 minutes, then restart it again.

Verify the Lines are Permanent or Moving on Samsung TV

The first step is to determine whether the lines are permanent or moving. If the lines are permanent, then it is a hardware problem, and you will need to contact Samsung or take your TV to a repair center. However, if the lines are moving, then it is a software problem, and you can use the following steps to fix the lines.

Perform Picture Test Switching Input Source

Before you start fixing the horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen, you should run a picture test. Your input source to your TV might be having issues, so you can switch your input source to another.

You can connect your laptop by connecting the HDMI cable to it for a while and check the picture quality and whether it is showing the same horizontal lines on your Samsung Smart TV screen.

Check the HDMI Cable and Reseat It

Loose HDMI cables are a frequent culprit behind the appearance of lines on your Smart TV, and fortunately, they are also one of the easiest issues to resolve.

Check the HDMI cable and reseat it. Also, check for any damage to the cable and replace it if necessary.

Update Samsung TV Firmware

If you are facing the issue of horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen and you want to fix this issue, then you need to update the firmware via OTA updates to the latest version. This is a good solution for the issue, and it will work most of the time in these issues.

To check if your Samsung TV has the latest software updates, go to the Home screen and then to the Settings menu screen using your remote control.

You will find the option to check for updates in the Support area. If there are updates available, download them. After updates are installed properly, check whether it is showing updated to the latest version. Now, it is recommended to perform a restart of your Samsung LCD TV or LED TV.

Factory Reset your Samsung Smart TV

This step will erase any updated settings on your Samsung TV, so it should be performed before any changes are made.

By following a few simple steps, you can factory reset your Samsung Smart TV, which includes pressing the Home button on your Samsung remote, going to Settings > General, selecting Reset, and entering the PIN you selected for the TV. Once reset, turn on your TV to see if your issues have been resolved.

Contact Samsung Customer Support

Note: Whenever this issue occurs, I have found it due to the hardware problem. So, if the above troubleshooting has not worked for you, it means it has a high chance of being a hardware issue. In this case, reaching out to Samsung Customer Support is recommended!

Here are two ways to get in touch with them:

Visit Samsung’s Official Support Site: You can visit Samsung’s official support site here. Here, you can find resources like manuals, drivers, firmware, and software updates for your TV. You can also request repair service or schedule a service visit at home. Additionally, you can connect with Samsung’s customer support team via phone, chat, email, and more.
Contact Samsung on Twitter: You can also reach out to Samsung’s customer support team on Twitter by tweeting to them at @SamsungSupport.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps(By Expert Only)

Remember, these advanced troubleshooting steps should only be performed by a certified technician. If you are not experienced in TV repair, it is best to contact a professional to avoid further damage to your Samsung TV.

Check for Panel Issue

If you have tried all the basic troubleshooting steps and the horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen persist, it might be a panel issue.

This issue can be caused by a faulty display panel, which is a hardware problem. If you suspect that this is the issue, it is best to contact a certified technician to repair or replace the panel.

Check COF Driver

Another possible cause of horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen is a faulty COF (Chip-On-Flex) driver.

This component is responsible for transmitting signals to the display panel. If the COF driver is damaged or malfunctioning, it can cause horizontal lines on the screen.

To check this, you will need to remove the back cover of your TV and inspect the COF driver. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Check T-Con

The T-Con (Timing Control) board is responsible for controlling the timing of the signals that are sent to the display panel.

A faulty T-Con board can cause horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen. To check this, you will need to remove the back cover of your Samsung TV and inspect the T-Con board. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Reconnect the Ribbon Cables

Sometimes, the ribbon cables that connect the different components of your Samsung TV can become loose or disconnected.

This can cause horizontal lines on the screen. To check this, you will need to remove the back cover of your Samsung TV and inspect the ribbon cables.

If any of them are loose or disconnected, reconnect them and check if the horizontal lines have disappeared.

Check for Other Internal Component Issues

If none of the above steps have resolved the issue, there may be a problem with another internal component of your Samsung TV.

This could include the mainboard, power supply board, or other components. It is best to contact a certified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Types of Horizontal Lines that can occur on Samsung Smart TV

1. Horizontal green lines on Samsung TV screen

Horizontal green lines are a common issue on Samsung Smart TVs. These lines usually appear on the top and bottom of the display and are caused by a faulty or damaged panel of your screen. The green lines can be a single line or a block of lines.

If you are experiencing green lines on your Samsung TV, the first step is to troubleshoot the issue. Check the input cable connection and ensure that it is connected to the correct input port. If the issue persists, it is likely a panel issue.

To fix the problem, you will need to replace the panel of your Samsung LED TV. Unfortunately, there is no other solution for this issue.

2. Horizontal black lines on Samsung TV screen

Horizontal black lines are another common issue on Samsung Smart TVs. These lines occur in thin strips mostly on the bottom or top of the screen of LED TVs. It can be in the form of a block of lines or a single line.

When a horizontal line appears on the screen of your Samsung TV, it can be either a problem with your TV, or it can be a problem with your cable or satellite box. If the horizontal lines are not caused by the cable or satellite box, then the problem is with your Samsung TV.

A black horizontal line is not always a panel issue. Typically, this can be caused by a bad pixel or a bad connection on the screen.

Check the input cable connection and ensure that it is connected to the correct input port. If the issue persists, contact Samsung support for assistance.

FAQs on Horizontal Lines on Screen of Samsung TV

What Causes Horizontal Lines on a Samsung TV Screen?

Horizontal lines on a Samsung TV screen can be caused by a variety of factors. Loose connections between the TV and external devices, such as cable boxes or gaming consoles, can cause horizontal lines to appear. Additionally, software glitches or hardware issues can also be the culprit. Poor power quality and bad connections can also lead to horizontal lines on your TV screen.

How Do You Troubleshoot Horizontal Lines on Your Samsung TV Screen?

There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen. First, check for loose connections between the TV and external devices. Adjusting picture settings and testing different inputs and channels can also help resolve the issue. Updating firmware and software, and performing a factory reset can also help troubleshoot horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen.

Why Are There Thin Black Horizontal Lines on My Samsung TV Screen?

Thin black horizontal lines on a Samsung TV screen can be caused by a faulty display panel. It is recommended to contact a professional for repair or replacement of the display panel.

Can Horizontal Lines on a Samsung TV Screen Be Fixed?

Yes, horizontal lines on a Samsung TV screen can be fixed. The solution depends on the cause of the issue. Troubleshooting steps such as checking for loose connections, adjusting picture settings, and updating firmware and software can help resolve the issue. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the display panel.

What Is the Difference Between Horizontal Lines and Vertical Lines on a Samsung TV Screen?

Horizontal lines on a Samsung TV screen appear horizontally across the screen, while vertical lines appear vertically. The causes and solutions for horizontal and vertical lines can differ, so it is important to identify which type of line is appearing on your TV screen.

How Do You Prevent Horizontal Lines from Appearing on Your Samsung TV Screen in the Future?

To prevent horizontal lines from appearing on your Samsung TV screen in the future, ensure that all connections between the TV and external devices are secure. Avoid power surges or power shortages by using a surge protector. Keep your TV away from sources of electromagnetic interference, such as speakers or other electronic devices. Regularly updating firmware and software can also help prevent issues with horizontal lines on your Samsung TV screen.

Jefferson McCall

Jefferson McCall is the tech-savvy co-founder of TechBullish, brings his passion for electronics to life through hands-on expertise. He has a deep understanding of embedded systems and consumer electronics from his decade of industry experience repairing and troubleshooting them. He spends time learning new and evolving technologies. Check Jefferson’s Crunchbase Profile here.