Samsung dryer tE/tS errors indicate a temperature sensor (thermistor) problem. First, clean the lint filter and exhaust vent—actual overheating triggers these errors too. If vents are clear, test the thermistor with a multimeter: it should read ~10,000 ohms at 77°F. Replace if reading is over 40,000Ω or very low (shorted).
| Error Code | tE / tS |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Temperature sensor error or out-of-range reading |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Time to Fix | 30 minutes |
| Tools Needed | Screwdriver, Multimeter |
| DIY Fixable | Yes |
| Official Source | Samsung Support |
The thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor that tells the control board how hot the dryer is. When it fails or reads incorrectly, the dryer displays tE/tS errors and may stop heating or refuse to start.
Understanding Temperature Error Codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| tE | Temperature Error—general |
| tE1 | Temperature sensor 1 error |
| tE2 | Temperature sensor 2 error |
| tE3 | Temperature sensor 3 error |
| tS | Temperature Sensor error |
| t5 | Same as tS (display limitation) |
| tO or t0 | Temperature Out of range |
| tC | Temperature sensor Circuit error |
All these codes point to the same component: the thermistor.
Common Causes
- Shorted thermistor (most common)—reads very low resistance
- Open thermistor—reads infinite or very high resistance
- Actual overheating—clogged vents causing real high temperatures
- Loose wiring connection at thermistor
- Damaged wire harness between thermistor and control board
Step 1: Rule Out Airflow Issues
Before testing the thermistor, ensure the dryer isn’t actually overheating:
- Clean lint filter completely
- Disconnect and inspect exhaust vent hose
- Clean entire duct run to exterior with vent brush
- Check exterior vent hood opens freely
If vents were heavily clogged, the thermistor may be correctly detecting high temperatures. Clean vents, reset dryer, and test.
If tE appears alongside HE/HC codes, the dryer IS overheating. Focus on airflow first—the thermistor is probably working correctly and detecting the real high temperature.
Step 2: Locate the Thermistor
The thermistor location varies by model but is typically:
- On the blower housing (most common)
- Near the heating element
- In the exhaust path
To access:
- Unplug dryer
- Remove rear panel (most models) OR front panel
- Look for small sensor with two-wire connector
The thermistor is a small cylindrical or disk-shaped component with two wires.
Step 3: Test Thermistor Resistance
Thermistor Resistance Chart
| Temperature | Expected Resistance |
|---|---|
| 32°F (0°C) | ~27,000Ω |
| 50°F (10°C) | ~19,000Ω |
| 68°F (20°C) | ~12,500Ω |
| 77°F (25°C) | ~10,000Ω |
| 86°F (30°C) | ~8,000Ω |
| 104°F (40°C) | ~6,500Ω |
| 122°F (50°C) | ~4,500Ω |
| 140°F (60°C) | ~3,500Ω |
| 176°F (80°C) | ~2,000Ω |
| 212°F (100°C) | ~1,200Ω |
Key values to remember:
- Room temp (~77°F): ~10,000Ω
- If it reads 40,000Ω+: thermistor is failing (open)
- If it reads very low (100-500Ω): thermistor is shorted
Testing Procedure
- Unplug dryer completely
- Let dryer cool to room temperature
- Access thermistor and disconnect its wire connector
- Set multimeter to resistance (Ω), 20kΩ range
- Touch probes to thermistor terminals
- Read resistance and compare to chart
Interpreting Results
| Reading | Diagnosis | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ~10,000Ω at room temp | Thermistor OK | Check wiring, control board |
| 40,000Ω+ | Thermistor failing/open | Replace thermistor |
| Very low (100-500Ω) | Thermistor shorted | Replace thermistor |
| OL (infinite) | Thermistor completely open | Replace thermistor |
| Fluctuating wildly | Intermittent failure | Replace thermistor |
Shorted thermistor example: A reading of 112Ω means the dryer “thinks” it’s approximately 300°F—way too hot—so it shuts down.
Step 4: Check Wiring
If thermistor tests good, check the wiring:
- Inspect wire harness for damage, burns, or rodent chewing
- Check connector for corrosion or bent pins
- Test continuity from thermistor connector to control board connector
- Look for loose connections at both ends
A broken wire can cause intermittent tE errors even with a good thermistor.
Step 5: Replace Thermistor
If thermistor is faulty:
Part number: DC32-00007A (fits most Samsung dryers) Cost: ~$15-25
Replacement Procedure
- Unplug dryer
- Access thermistor (remove appropriate panel)
- Disconnect wire connector
- Remove mounting screw or clip
- Install new thermistor in same location
- Reconnect wire connector—ensure secure fit
- Reassemble panels
- Test with a drying cycle
When tE Persists After Replacement
If error returns with new thermistor:
- Control board issue—the board may not be reading the sensor correctly
- Wiring problem—damaged wire between sensor and board
- Wrong part—verify part number matches your model
At this point, professional diagnosis is recommended.
Model Coverage
Temperature error codes appear on all Samsung dryer types:
- Electric (DVE series): DVE45T6000, DVE50A8500, DVE45A6400
- Gas (DVG series): DVG45T6000, DVG50A8500
- Bespoke AI: DVE53BB8700, Bespoke AI Laundry Combo
- Smart Dial: All models