Samsung Washer 4E Error: Water Supply Fix

The 4E error code on Samsung washers is officially described as a “not filling error”—water is not entering the washer within the expected timeframe. This is one of the most common Samsung washer errors and is usually caused by issues outside the washer itself—making it one of the easiest to fix.

What the 4E Error Code Means

When your Samsung washer displays 4E (or 4C on newer models), the control board has detected that:

• Water isn’t entering the drum at all, OR
• Water is entering too slowly to fill within the programmed time limit

The washer will stop the cycle and display this error rather than attempting to operate without sufficient water.

Model Coverage

This guide applies to Samsung washers displaying the 4E or 4C error code, including:

• Front-load washers: WF42, WF45, WF50, WF56 series
• Top-load washers: WA45, WA50, WA52, WA54 series
• Models manufactured between 2015-2024

The troubleshooting steps are similar across models, though valve locations may vary slightly.

Common Causes

The 4E error typically results from:

1. Water supply valves closed or partially closed (most common)
2. Kinked inlet hoses restricting water flow
3. Clogged inlet filter screens blocking water entry
4. Using Flood Safe hoses (Samsung advises against these—they can restrict flow)
5. Low household water pressure
6. Frozen inlet hoses (in cold climates)
7. Failed water inlet valve (less common)

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Check Water Supply Valves

The most common cause of 4E is simply closed water valves.

1. Locate the hot and cold water valves behind the washer
2. Turn both valves fully counterclockwise (open position)
3. The valve handles should be parallel to the pipes when fully open
4. If valves are already open, close them completely, wait 10 seconds, then reopen

Step 2: Inspect Inlet Hoses

Kinked hoses restrict water flow significantly.

1. Pull the washer out slightly to access the back
2. Examine both inlet hoses (hot and cold) from valve to washer
3. Straighten any kinks or sharp bends
4. Ensure hoses aren’t pinched between the washer and wall
5. Check for visible cracks or damage—replace damaged hoses

Step 3: Clean Inlet Filter Screens

Small mesh screens at the hose connections catch debris and can become clogged.

1. Turn off both water supply valves
2. Place towels beneath the hose connections (water will drain)
3. Disconnect the hoses from the back of the washer
4. Look inside each hose connection—you’ll see a small mesh screen
5. Gently remove the screens with needle-nose pliers or tweezers
6. Clean screens under running water, using a soft brush to remove sediment
7. Reinstall screens (convex side facing out)
8. Reconnect hoses and hand-tighten plus 2/3 turn with pliers
9. Turn water valves back on and check for leaks

Step 4: Test Water Pressure

Low household water pressure can trigger 4E errors.

1. Disconnect the inlet hoses from the washer (valves open)
2. Hold a hose over a bucket and briefly open its valve
3. Water should flow strongly—filling roughly a gallon in 30 seconds
4. Weak flow indicates a water pressure problem
5. Check if other fixtures (sinks, showers) also have low pressure

If pressure is low throughout your home, the issue may be your main water supply or a partially closed main valve.

Step 5: Check for Frozen Hoses

In cold weather, water in hoses can freeze.

1. If the washer is in an unheated area, check hose temperature
2. Frozen hoses will feel hard and unyielding
3. Move the washer to a warmer location or apply gentle heat (NOT open flame)
4. Consider insulating hoses if freezing is recurring

Step 6: Power Reset

After completing physical checks, reset the washer:

1. Press Power to turn off the washer
2. Unplug from the electrical outlet
3. Wait 5 minutes
4. Plug back in and power on
5. Select a cycle and press Start

Tools and Parts Needed

• Adjustable pliers
• Needle-nose pliers or tweezers
• Towels
• Bucket
• Soft brush (toothbrush works well)
• Replacement inlet hoses (if damaged)
• Replacement inlet screens (if damaged or missing)

Safety Warnings

• Always turn off water supply valves before disconnecting hoses
• Have towels ready—residual water will drain from hoses
• Don’t overtighten hose connections—hand-tight plus slight turn is sufficient
• Never use open flame to thaw frozen hoses

When to Call a Tech

Contact a professional if:

• Water valves, hoses, and screens are all fine but 4E persists
• The inlet valve makes a clicking sound but no water enters
• You notice water entering very slowly despite good pressure
• The washer displays 4E intermittently without pattern

These symptoms suggest the water inlet valve solenoid has failed and needs replacement.

Important: Avoid Flood Safe Hoses

Samsung specifically advises against using Flood Safe (also called “FloodSafe” or “auto-shutoff”) water supply hoses. These hoses have built-in mechanisms that can restrict water flow or shut off unexpectedly, triggering 4E errors. Use standard braided stainless steel hoses instead.

Sources

For official Samsung support:

• Samsung Washer Info Codes
• Samsung US Support

Related Guides

• Samsung Washer Error Codes: Complete Guide
• UE Error: Unbalanced Load Solutions
• How to Reset a Samsung Washer