Samsung washer error codes use a combination of numbers and letters to identify specific problems. Most codes can be resolved by checking water supply, clearing blockages, redistributing loads, or performing a power reset. Persistent codes may require professional service.
Samsung washing machines display error codes when the control system detects a problem that prevents normal operation. This guide covers the most common error codes across Samsung’s front-load (WF series) and top-load (WA series) washers, along with step-by-step troubleshooting instructions.
How Samsung Error Codes Work
Samsung uses an alphanumeric system where numbers and letters combine to indicate specific faults. The codes appear on the digital display and typically include:
- Numbers (1-9): Often indicate the system category (4 = water inlet, 5 = drainage)
- Letters (E, C, etc.): Usually mean “Error” or “Code”
- Letter combinations (UE, DC, etc.): Describe the fault type directly
When an error appears, the washer typically stops the current cycle and may lock the door until the issue is resolved.
Model Coverage
This guide applies to commonly reported error codes for:
- Samsung front-load washers: WF42, WF45, WF50 series and similar models manufactured between 2015-2024
- Samsung top-load washers: WA45, WA50, WA52 series and similar models manufactured between 2015-2024
Error code meanings can vary between model years and regions. Always verify the specific meaning for your model using the Samsung support website or your owner’s manual.
Error Code Reference Table
| Code | Meaning | Severity | Quick Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4E / 4C | Water supply error | Medium | Check water valves, inlet hoses, filters |
| 5E / 5C | Drainage error | Medium | Check drain hose, clean filter, clear pump |
| UE / UB | Unbalanced load | Low | Redistribute laundry, reduce load size |
| DC / DE | Door error | Low-Medium | Close door firmly, check latch |
| LE / LE1 | Water level error | Medium | Check pressure hose, sensor issue |
| OE | Overflow error | High | Check water inlet valve, call service |
| HE / HE1 | Heating error | Medium | Heating element or sensor issue |
| tE / tE1 | Temperature sensor error | Medium | Thermistor malfunction |
| 3E / 3C | Motor error | High | Motor or hall sensor problem |
| AE | Communication error | Medium | Control board issue |
| 8E | Overcurrent error | High | Motor power issue |
| 9E | Power supply error | Medium | Check electrical supply |
Common Error Codes: Detailed Troubleshooting
4E / 4C - Water Supply Error
What it means: The washer isn’t receiving enough water within the expected timeframe.
Common causes:
- Water supply valves not fully open
- Kinked or frozen inlet hoses
- Clogged inlet filter screens
- Low household water pressure
- Inlet valve malfunction
Step-by-step fix:
- Cancel the cycle and turn off the washer
- Locate the hot and cold water valves behind the washer
- Verify both valves are turned fully counterclockwise (open position)
- Check inlet hoses for kinks—straighten any bends
- Turn off water valves, then disconnect hoses from the washer
- Inspect the small mesh filter screens inside the hose connections
- Clean screens with a soft brush under running water
- Reconnect hoses, turn on water valves, and test
Tools needed: Adjustable pliers, small brush or toothbrush
Safety note: Place towels under connections when disconnecting hoses—residual water will drain out.
When to call a tech: If screens are clean, valves are open, and water pressure is normal elsewhere in your home, the inlet valve itself may have failed and requires replacement.
5E / 5C - Drainage Error
What it means: The washer cannot drain water within the expected timeframe.
Common causes:
- Clogged drain filter (most common)
- Kinked drain hose
- Drain pump blockage
- Drain hose too deep in standpipe
- Drain pump failure
Step-by-step fix:
- Cancel the cycle and unplug the washer
- Locate the drain filter access panel (usually lower front)
- Place towels and a shallow pan beneath the panel
- Open the access door and slowly turn the filter cap counterclockwise
- Allow water to drain into the pan (there may be significant water)
- Remove the filter completely and clean off debris (coins, lint, small items)
- Check inside the pump housing for obstructions
- Rinse the filter under running water
- Reinstall the filter (turn clockwise until snug, but don’t overtighten)
- Close the access panel, plug in the washer, and run a drain/spin cycle
Tools needed: Towels, shallow pan or container
Safety note: Unplug before accessing internal components. Water from the drain can be hot if the cycle was interrupted mid-wash.
Check the drain filter monthly if you wash items with lint, pet hair, or tissue in pockets. Many drainage errors can be prevented with regular filter cleaning.
When to call a tech: If the filter is clear and drain hose is unobstructed, the drain pump motor may have failed. You may hear humming (pump trying to run) or silence (pump not activating) during drain attempts.
UE / UB - Unbalanced Load
What it means: The load inside the drum is distributed unevenly, preventing safe spin operation.
Common causes:
- Single heavy item (like a blanket or towel)
- Mix of very heavy and very light items
- Items tangled together
- Washing too few items
- Load shifted during wash cycle
Step-by-step fix:
- Wait for the door lock to release (may take a minute)
- Open the door and observe load distribution
- Untangle any wrapped or balled-up items
- Spread heavy items evenly around the drum
- Add similar items if load is too small (e.g., add towels to a single blanket)
- Close the door firmly and restart the spin cycle
No tools needed
When to call a tech: If UE errors occur with normal, well-distributed loads, the suspension system, shock absorbers, or drum bearings may be worn. Listen for unusual banging or grinding during spin. Also check that the washer is level—all four feet should contact the floor firmly.
DC / DE - Door Error
What it means: The control board detects that the door is not properly closed or latched.
Common causes:
- Door not fully closed
- Debris in door seal preventing closure
- Door latch mechanism worn or broken
- Door strike misaligned
- Door lock solenoid failure
Step-by-step fix:
- Open the door completely
- Inspect the door gasket (rubber seal) for debris, items, or buildup
- Clean the gasket with a damp cloth
- Check that nothing is caught between the door and the frame
- Close the door firmly—you should hear a click
- If the door won’t latch, inspect the plastic latch hook for cracks
- Check that the door strike plate on the frame is properly aligned
- Restart the cycle
Tools needed: Damp cloth for cleaning
Safety note: Never attempt to force the door open when locked. Wait for the washer to unlock naturally or perform a power reset.
When to call a tech: If the latch appears broken or the door lock mechanism doesn’t engage (no clicking sound), these parts typically require replacement.
LE / LE1 - Water Level Error
What it means: The pressure sensor that measures water level is detecting abnormal readings.
Common causes:
- Kinked or disconnected pressure hose
- Faulty pressure sensor (water level sensor)
- Control board malfunction
- Drainage issue causing high water reading
Step-by-step fix:
- Unplug the washer and pull it away from the wall
- Locate the pressure hose—a thin tube running from the tub to the control area
- Check for kinks, cracks, or disconnection
- If accessible, gently blow through the hose to check for blockages
- Reconnect any loose connections
- Push the washer back, plug in, and test
Tools needed: Possibly a flashlight
Safety note: This diagnosis may require removing panels. If you’re not comfortable, call a technician.
When to call a tech: Pressure sensor replacement is moderately difficult and the part can be expensive. Professional diagnosis is recommended if the hose checks out fine.
3E / 3C - Motor Error
What it means: The motor isn’t operating correctly, or the hall sensor (which monitors motor position) is sending abnormal signals.
Common causes:
- Overloaded washer
- Jammed drum
- Motor wiring issue
- Hall sensor failure
- Motor failure
Step-by-step fix:
- Unplug the washer for 5 minutes
- Check if the drum turns freely by hand—it should rotate with some resistance but not be locked
- If the drum won’t turn, an item may be jammed between the drum and tub
- Reduce load size if overloaded (more than 3/4 full)
- Plug back in and attempt a cycle
Safety note: Unplug before manually rotating the drum.
When to call a tech: Motor and hall sensor issues require professional diagnosis and repair. If the drum is jammed and you can’t identify the cause, or if the motor makes grinding/burning sounds, call for service.
How to Reset Your Samsung Washer
A power reset clears temporary electronic glitches and is worth trying for any error code before extensive troubleshooting:
- Press Power to turn off the washer
- Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet
- Wait 5 minutes (this allows capacitors to fully discharge)
- Plug the washer back in
- Press Power to turn on
- Select a cycle and press Start
If the same code reappears immediately or during the cycle, the underlying issue needs to be addressed.
Factory Reset (Calibration Mode)
Some Samsung washers have a calibration mode that can reset certain settings:
- Empty the drum completely
- Turn on the washer
- Press and hold Temp + Delay End (or the buttons specified in your manual) for 3 seconds
- The display will show “Cb” or similar
- Press Start to begin calibration
- Wait for the process to complete (the drum will spin briefly)
Consult your owner’s manual for the exact button combination for your model.
When to Call a Professional
Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance repair technician if:
- Error codes persist after troubleshooting steps
- You see error codes in the 3E, 8E, or AE series (motor/electrical issues)
- There’s a burning smell or visible sparking
- The washer leaks water during operation
- You hear grinding metal sounds during spin
- The drum doesn’t turn freely by hand
- Your washer is under warranty (DIY repairs may void coverage)
What to Tell the Technician
When calling for service, have ready:
- Model number (inside the door frame)
- Serial number
- Exact error code displayed
- When the error first appeared
- What troubleshooting you’ve already tried
Sources
For official Samsung support and error code verification:
- Samsung Washer Info Codes
- Samsung US Support
- Your washer’s owner’s manual (usually available as PDF on Samsung’s website)
Related Guides
- 4E Error: Water Supply Fix
- UE Error: Unbalanced Load Solutions
- DC Error: Door Won’t Lock
- How to Reset a Samsung Washer
- Appliance Error Codes: Universal Guide