Samsung Washer Error Codes: Complete Guide to Every Code

Understanding Samsung Washer Error Codes

Samsung washing machines use alphanumeric error codes to communicate problems to users. While seeing an error code on your washer's display can be stressful, most of these codes point to issues you can diagnose and often fix yourself without calling a technician.

This guide covers every Samsung washer error code, what each one means, how much it typically costs to fix, and whether you should tackle it yourself or hire a pro.

Water Supply Errors

E1 / 4E / 4C — Water Supply Issue

These codes all indicate the same problem: your washer isn't getting enough water, or water isn't entering the machine at all.

Most likely causes:

• Water supply valves not fully open (check behind the washer)
• Kinked or bent inlet hoses
• Clogged inlet filter screens (small mesh screens at hose connections)
• Low household water pressure

How to fix:

• Turn both hot and cold valves fully counter-clockwise
• Straighten any kinked hoses
• Clean inlet filter screens with a toothbrush under running water
• If water pressure is low throughout your home, contact your water utility

Cost: $0 in most cases. Replacement filter: $5-10. New hose: $15-25.

E4 — Water Supply Timeout

Similar to E1 but specifically means the machine timed out waiting for enough water to fill. The causes and fixes are identical to E1/4E/4C above.

Pro tip: If you recently moved your washer, always check that the hoses aren't pinched behind the machine. This is the number one cause of E4 after a move.

Drainage Errors

5E / SE / 5C — Drainage Failure

Your washer can't drain the water from the tub. This is usually a blockage somewhere in the drain system.

Most likely causes:

• Clogged drain filter (the small panel at the bottom front of your washer)
• Blocked drain hose
• Drain pump failure
• Kinked drain hose

How to fix:

• Open the drain filter access panel and clean the filter trap — have towels ready, water will come out
• Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs
• Listen for the drain pump during a spin cycle — silence means it may have failed

Cost: $0 for filter cleaning. Drain pump replacement: $25-50 DIY, $150-250 professional.

ND / nF — No Drain

Same as 5E. Samsung uses different codes across model years for the same issue.

Balance and Load Errors

UE / UB / E4 — Unbalanced Load

The washer detected an unbalanced load during the spin cycle and stopped to prevent damage.

How to fix:

• Open the washer and redistribute clothes evenly
• Remove some items if the load is too large (fill the drum 3/4 full maximum)
• Add a few towels if washing a single heavy item like a comforter
• Check that the washer is level using a spirit level on top

Cost: $0

DC / DC1 — Door Open During Cycle

The door was opened or didn't close properly during a cycle.

Most likely causes:

• Door latch not fully engaged
• Something caught in the door seal
• Faulty door lock mechanism
• Worn door boot seal

How to fix:

• Close door firmly until you hear the lock click
• Check the rubber door boot seal for objects or damage
• Clean the door latch area

Cost: $0 for simple fixes. Door lock assembly: $20-45 DIY, $89-149 professional.

Motor and Drive Errors

3E / 3E1 / 3E2 / 3E3 / 3E4 — Motor Error

These codes indicate the motor or motor control has a problem. The number after 3E indicates the specific type of motor failure.

3E: General motor error, often a one-time glitch

3E1: Motor overloaded (too heavy a load)

3E2: Motor signal weak (wiring issue)

3E3: Motor current unstable

3E4: Motor hall sensor failure

How to fix:

• 3E: Reset the washer by unplugging for 60 seconds. If it recurs, the motor may need service.
• 3E1: Reduce load size and restart
• 3E2-3E4: These typically require professional diagnosis and repair

Cost: Power reset is free. Motor replacement: $150-300 for parts, $200-500 with labor.

Temperature Errors

HE / HE1 / HE2 — Heater Error

The water heater has malfunctioned. HE1 means the water is overheating, while HE2 means it's not heating at all.

Most likely causes:

• Faulty heating element
• Temperature sensor failure
• Control board issue
• Wiring problem

How to fix:

• Reset the washer first (unplug for 60 seconds)
• Try running a cold-only cycle to see if the washer otherwise works
• If the error persists, the heating element or thermistor likely needs replacement

Cost: Thermistor: $15-30. Heating element: $30-80 DIY, $150-250 professional.

Sensor Errors

LE / LE1 / E6 — Water Leak Detected

The washer's leak sensor has detected water where it shouldn't be — usually in the base pan underneath the drum.

Most likely causes:

• Loose hose connection
• Damaged door boot seal
• Cracked tub
• Overfilling

How to fix:

• Unplug the washer immediately
• Check under and around the washer for visible leaks
• Inspect the door boot seal for tears
• Check all hose connections are tight
• Tilt the washer to drain any water from the base pan

Cost: Door boot seal: $40-80 DIY, $150-250 professional. Hose clamp: $5-10.

Warning: Water and electricity don't mix. If you see significant water under your washer, unplug it before investigating. If water has reached any electrical components, call a professional.

Electronic and Communication Errors

AE / 13E — Communication Error

The main PCB and sub-PCB are not communicating properly. This is an electrical issue.

How to fix:

• Unplug the washer for 5 minutes and try again
• Check that no wiring harnesses have come loose (vibration can cause this)
• If persistent, the main control board may need replacement

Cost: Control board: $80-200 DIY, $200-400 professional.

When to Call a Professional

While many Samsung washer errors are easy DIY fixes, call a pro when:

• You see error codes related to the motor (3E2-3E4), heater (HE), or control board (AE)
• The same error keeps coming back after you've tried the basic fixes
• You smell burning or hear unusual grinding sounds
• There's visible water damage to electrical components
• Your washer is still under warranty (DIY repairs may void it)

Preventing Future Errors

Good maintenance habits prevent most washer errors:

• Clean the drain filter monthly
• Run a cleaning cycle (tub clean) monthly with washer cleaner or white vinegar
• Don't overload — fill to 3/4 capacity
• Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent
• Leave the door ajar after each wash to prevent mold
• Check hoses annually for wear, bulges, or cracks
• Clean the detergent dispenser monthly