Samsung washing machine error codes: the complete guide
When a Samsung washer shows a code, it is telling you where the cycle got stuck. This guide explains each code in plain language: meaning, likely causes, what you can safely check, and when to call a technician.
Samsung washers use short number-and-letter codes such as 4E, 5E or UE. Older displays may show C instead of E (4C, 5C), and some models add suffixes such as dE1 or 3E2 that pinpoint the fault further.
Search for your code or pick it from the list. Remember a code points to the system that struggled, not necessarily a broken part — 5E, for example, is most often a clogged filter rather than a dead pump.
This is a first guide based on code families common to Samsung washers. Some meanings vary by model and year — send us your model to confirm.
We couldn’t find that code. Send us a photo of the display and the model on WhatsApp.
4E
Samsung washer code 4E: Water supply problem
May also appear as: 4C · 4E1 · 4E2 · 4C2
Meaning
The washer did not receive the expected amount of water within the set time, so it stopped to protect itself.
Likely causes
Tap closed or low water pressure
Clogged mesh filter at the inlet hose connection
Kinked or crushed inlet hose behind the machine
Weak or failed water inlet valve
Safe checks for users
Make sure the tap is fully open and the house has water
Unplug the washer, close the tap, then check the inlet hose for kinks
Run a short programme after reopening the tap
Related parts:Water inlet valveInlet mesh filterWater-level (pressure) sensor
When do you need a technician?
The code appears even though water pressure is good and the hose is fine
You hear a hum from the back but no water enters
The code appears mid-cycle, not only at the start
Model-specific note: On some models, sub-codes such as 4C2 indicate that incoming water is too hot or that hot/cold hoses are connected the wrong way round.
Can 4E appear because the roof tank is empty?
Yes — it is one of the most common causes. If the tank is empty or pressure drops at certain hours, the washer stops with 4E. Check a nearby tap first.
5E
Samsung washer code 5E: Drain problem
May also appear as: 5C · nd
Meaning
The washer could not drain the water within the expected time, so it cannot move on to rinse or spin.
Likely causes
Drain pump filter blocked by lint, coins or small objects
Kinked or blocked drain hose, or a blocked household drain
Failed drain pump
Drain hose installed at an unsuitable height
Safe checks for users
Unplug the washer and let the water cool before opening the lower filter cover
Place a tray and towel under the filter — residual water will come out — then clean the filter
Check the drain hose is not kinked and the drain is not backing up
Related parts:Pump filterDrain pumpDrain hose
When do you need a technician?
The filter is clean, the hose is fine, and water is still in the drum
You hear the pump but no water flows — or hear nothing at all
The code returns after every wash
Model-specific note: On some older top-load models, the code nd has a similar meaning.
Can I open the door with water inside after 5E?
Don’t force the door. Drain the water through the lower pump filter first (with a tray and towel); once the level drops, the lock usually releases within minutes.
UE
Samsung washer code UE: Unbalanced load
May also appear as: Ub · UB · dC
Meaning
The washer cannot distribute the laundry evenly, so it reduces or skips the spin to protect itself.
Likely causes
Very small load or a single heavy item such as a blanket or rug
Uneven floor or unadjusted feet
Transit bolts still fitted on a new washer
Worn shock absorbers or suspension springs
Safe checks for users
Redistribute the laundry by hand and run a spin cycle
Add a few items if the load is one heavy piece
Make sure the washer stands level and its feet are firm
Related parts:Shock absorbers & springsVibration sensorMotor
When do you need a technician?
The code appears with normal, balanced loads
You hear heavy banging or the drum moves more than usual
The washer walks across the floor during spin
Model-specific note: On some top-load models, dC may appear for an unbalanced load or when the lid is opened during spin.
Why does UE appear when washing a single blanket?
One large item bunches up on one side of the drum. Add two or three towels, or use a bedding programme if your model has one.
dE
Samsung washer code dE: Door or door-lock problem
May also appear as: dC · DE1 · DE2 · dE1 · dE2 · dC1 · dC3
Meaning
The washer does not detect that the door is properly closed and locked, so it won’t start or stops the cycle.
Likely causes
Door not fully closed or clothes trapped in the seal
Damaged door hook or hinges
Faulty door-lock assembly
Wiring or control-board issue
Safe checks for users
Open the door, clear any trapped clothing and close it firmly until it clicks
Switch the washer off for a minute, then on again
Related parts:Door lockDoor seal (gasket)Wiring & connectorsMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
The door is properly closed and the code persists
The door never locks, or won’t unlock after the cycle
The door hook is broken or bent
Model-specific note: Suffixes such as dE1, dE2, dC1 and dC3 identify the lock fault type depending on the model; pinpointing it requires inspection.
Can I run the washer without the door lock?
No — and the lock must never be bypassed. It is a safety system that prevents opening the door while the drum spins or holds water. Fix the cause or replace the lock unit.
LE
Samsung washer code LE: Leak or abnormal water level detected
May also appear as: LC · LE1 · LC1
Meaning
The washer detected water where it shouldn’t be, or an unexpected water level during operation.
Likely causes
Leak from an internal hose or the door seal
Drain hose placed too low, siphoning water out
Excess suds from too much detergent
Cracked tub or loose connections
Safe checks for users
Inspect the floor under and around the washer
Check the drain-hose height and fixing
Use the recommended detergent dose
Related parts:Internal hosesDoor seal (gasket)Drain hoseDetergent drawer
When do you need a technician?
You find water under the washer after every wash
The leak comes from underneath, not the door
The code repeats even after adjusting the drain hose
Model-specific note: If there is water near wiring or the socket, switch off the breaker immediately and do not touch the appliance.
Is a small leak from the door dangerous?
Small door leaks are usually lint or residue on the seal, or a tear in it. Clean the seal and watch; if it continues, have the seal checked before water reaches electrical parts.
OE
Samsung washer code OE: Overfill
May also appear as: OC · OF · 0E · 0C
Meaning
The water level in the tub is higher than the allowed limit, so the washer tries to drain it.
Likely causes
Inlet valve not closing fully
Faulty water-level (pressure) sensor or a blocked sensor tube
Excess suds causing a false reading
Safe checks for users
If water keeps entering while the washer is off, close the tap and unplug it immediately
Reduce the detergent dose next wash
Related parts:Water inlet valveWater-level (pressure) sensorMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
Water enters while the washer is off
The code appears every wash
Water overflows from the detergent drawer
Model-specific note: Water entering while the machine is off usually points to the inlet valve and needs a technician.
Why does my washer fill while switched off?
The electric valve should close fully when unpowered. If water still passes, it is usually worn or blocked by scale; keep the tap closed until it is repaired.
1E
Samsung washer code 1E: Water-level sensor error
May also appear as: 1C · IE
Meaning
The control board receives an implausible reading from the water-level sensor, so it can’t tell how much water is inside.
Likely causes
Blocked or detached sensor tube
Failed pressure sensor
Wiring or connector issue
Safe checks for users
Switch off and unplug the washer for a few minutes, then restart
Consider whether the washer was recently moved or knocked
Related parts:Water-level (pressure) sensorWiring & connectorsMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
The code returns after a restart
The washer clearly fills more or less than usual
Model-specific note: Opening the top panel to reach the sensor is not recommended without experience.
Does 1E affect cleaning?
Yes — a wrong level reading can make the washer use too little or too much water, affecting washing and rinsing.
3E
Samsung washer code 3E: Motor error
May also appear as: 3C · 3E1 · 3E2 · 3E3 · 3E4
Meaning
The motor is not turning as expected, or the speed signal reaching the board is abnormal.
Likely causes
Load exceeds washer capacity
Foreign object restricting the drum
Motor speed sensor or wiring fault
Motor or inverter control-circuit fault
Safe checks for users
Reduce the load and restart
With the washer unplugged, check the drum turns freely by hand
Related parts:MotorMotor speed (Hall) sensorWiring & connectorsMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
The drum feels stiff or grinds when turned by hand
The code repeats with small loads
You smell burning
Model-specific note: If the code repeats, the motor and board need electrical measurement.
Does 3E mean the motor is dead?
Not necessarily. Many 3E cases come from overloading, a trapped object or a loose connector. Measurement shows whether the motor itself is at fault.
HE
Samsung washer code HE: Water heating error
May also appear as: HC · HE1 · HE2 · HE3
Meaning
Water does not reach the selected temperature, or gets hotter than expected.
Likely causes
Failed heating element
Temperature sensor fault
Limescale on the heater
Heating circuit issue on the board
Safe checks for users
Try a cold-water programme to confirm the rest of the washer works
Check the breaker didn’t trip during heating
Related parts:Heating elementTemperature sensor (thermistor)Main control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
Laundry comes out cold on hot programmes
The breaker trips when heating starts
The code keeps returning
Model-specific note: Testing the heater requires isolating power and measuring resistance — a technician’s job.
Can I still use the washer with HE?
Cold programmes may work temporarily, but if the breaker trips, stop using it — the heater may be leaking current.
tE
Samsung washer code tE: Temperature sensor error
May also appear as: TE · tE1 · tE2 · tE3 · TE1 · TE2
Meaning
The temperature sensor (thermistor) reading is outside the normal range, so heating can’t be controlled.
Likely causes
Failed thermistor
Loose or oxidised connector
Wiring issue
Safe checks for users
Restart the appliance after unplugging it for a few minutes
Related parts:Temperature sensor (thermistor)Wiring & connectorsMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
The code returns after a restart
It comes with heating or drying problems
Model-specific note: On washer-dryer combos, tE2 and tE3 may relate to drying-circuit sensors depending on the model.
What is the difference between tE and HE?
tE usually concerns the sensor reading itself, while HE concerns the heating result (not heating or overheating). The two are often checked together.
AE
Samsung washer code AE: Communication error between boards
May also appear as: AC · AC6
Meaning
Communication between the display board and the main or inverter board is interrupted.
Likely causes
Loose connector or damaged wire between boards
Voltage fluctuations
Fault on one of the boards
Safe checks for users
Unplug the washer for 10 minutes, then restart
Try a different socket without extension leads
Related parts:Display & button boardMain control board (PCB)Wiring & connectors
When do you need a technician?
The code returns after a restart
The display flickers or goes off
It appeared after a power cut or moisture
Model-specific note: If the code returns after a restart, the boards need electronic diagnosis.
Does AE mean the board must be replaced?
Not always — it may be a loose connector or damaged wire. Diagnosis shows whether a repair is possible before considering replacement.
Sud
Samsung washer code Sud: Excess suds detected
May also appear as: SUdS · Sd · 5ud
Meaning
Not a fault by itself: the washer detected too much foam and paused to clear it before continuing.
Likely causes
Too much detergent
Detergent not suited to automatic machines
Old detergent build-up in the drum
Safe checks for users
Let the washer finish clearing the suds
Reduce the dose and use a detergent made for automatic washers
Run an empty drum-clean cycle
Related parts:Detergent drawerPump filterWater-level (pressure) sensor
When do you need a technician?
It appears even with small detergent doses
It comes with drain problems
Model-specific note: If it appears without heavy dosing, there may be a drain or level-sensor problem.
Why does the cycle get longer with Sud?
The washer adds stages to break down and drain the foam before continuing — that’s normal. Using less detergent prevents it.
bE
Samsung washer code bE: Stuck button on the control panel
May also appear as: BE · bE1 · bE2 · bE3
Meaning
The washer detects a button held down continuously, or a power key that doesn’t return.
Likely causes
Button stuck by dirt or detergent residue
Moisture inside the button panel
Faulty display/button board
Safe checks for users
Press each button gently and make sure it springs back
Wipe around the buttons with a dry cloth
Unplug for a few minutes, then restart
Related parts:Display & button boardWiring & connectors
When do you need a technician?
The code returns after cleaning and restarting
Buttons don’t respond, or act on their own
Model-specific note: The suffix (bE1/bE2/bE3) may identify the button or switch type depending on the model.
Can bathroom humidity cause bE?
High humidity or condensation can contribute to button faults. Ventilating the room and keeping water off the panel helps.
CE
Samsung washer code CE: Water too hot at drain time
Meaning
On some models, CE indicates the water is too hot when it is time to drain, so the washer adds cold water to cool it first.
Likely causes
High-temperature programme with hot incoming water
Temperature sensor fault
Drain problem delaying hot water from leaving
Safe checks for users
Let the washer cool and finish the cycle
Make sure the inlet hose is connected to cold water
Related parts:Temperature sensor (thermistor)Drain pump
When do you need a technician?
It repeats with normal programmes
It comes with drain or heating problems
Model-specific note: The meaning of CE varies between models — check your manual or send us the model.
Is CE dangerous?
It is usually protection for drains and hoses against very hot water. If it repeats on normal programmes, have the sensor and drain checked.
8E
Samsung washer code 8E: Vibration sensor error
May also appear as: 8C · 8E1 · 8C1
Meaning
On some models, indicates a fault in the vibration sensor that monitors drum movement during spin.
Likely causes
Loose sensor connector
Failed sensor
Heavy shocks during transport
Safe checks for users
Unplug for a few minutes, then restart
Make sure the washer is level
Related parts:Vibration sensorWiring & connectorsMain control board (PCB)
When do you need a technician?
The code returns after a restart
The washer won’t spin, or always spins slowly
Model-specific note: This code doesn’t exist on every Samsung model; it is mainly linked to models fitted with a vibration sensor.
Can 8E appear after moving the washer?
Yes — knocks in transport can loosen the sensor connector. That’s why transit bolts should be refitted when moving a washer any distance.
9E
Samsung washer code 9E: Abnormal supply voltage
May also appear as: 9C · Uc · 9C1 · 9C2 · 9E1 · 9E2
Meaning
The washer detects supply voltage above or below normal and stops to protect its boards.
Likely causes
Fluctuating or low household supply
Unsuitable extension lead or socket
Fault in the board’s voltage-sensing circuit
Safe checks for users
Plug the washer directly into a wall socket, without extensions
Notice whether lights dim when other appliances start
Wait for the supply to stabilise, then restart
Related parts:Mains noise (EMI) filterMain control board (PCB)Wiring & connectors
When do you need a technician?
The code appears although the supply is stable
Other appliances on the same circuit work normally
Model-specific note: Sub-codes (9C1, 9C2, Uc) vary by model and indicate high or low voltage.
Do I need a voltage stabiliser for my washer?
If your supply fluctuates often, a stabiliser rated for the washer’s power may help. Ask a technician to choose the right type and rating.
Frequently asked questions
Samsung error code FAQ
How do I clear an error code on a Samsung washer?
Usually switching off and unplugging for a few minutes after fixing the cause is enough. If the code returns, the cause is still there.
What is the difference between 5E and 5C?
Essentially the same meaning (a drain problem); the difference is how display generations show it.
Does a code mean my washer needs a new part?
Not necessarily. Many codes come from blockages, settings or external conditions like water pressure or power. Diagnosis decides.
My code isn’t on the list — what should I do?
Photograph the display and model label and send them on WhatsApp to 0782540147; we’ll help interpret it.
Do washer-dryers use the same codes?
Many are shared, but washer-dryers have extra codes for the drying circuit. Send us your model to confirm.
Need a Samsung repair technician?
Send us the model, the error code and a description of the fault — or book a technician visit in Amman, Zarqa, Salt, Madaba or Sahab.