Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes (Ultimate Guide)

Stacy Randall
by Stacy Randall
Samsung washing machine error codes display before or during a cycle of laundry, and it’s enough to confuse any homeowner. The error code on your Samsung washing machine relates to a specific problem that you can identify and fix. Whether it be identifying the code or troubleshooting it, let’s take a look at what the error codes on your Samsung washing machine mean.

Don’t you hate when you throw a load of clothes into the washer and nothing happens? Even worse is when your full Samsung washing machine dies mid-cycle. Then, you’re left with a heavy bundle of sopping wet, half-clean clothes (and a machine full of water).

If your Samsung washing machine isn’t working, it conveniently displays an error code to help explain the problem. These codes can signal an array of issues, ranging from very simple to more complex. Once you identify the code, you can sometimes fix the problem yourself; other times you’ll need to call a pro.

When your Samsung washer starts to flash random numbers and letters, pay attention. Your machine is trying to tell you that something isn’t right. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to fix the problem without having to deal with a service call (and the extra fees).

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Complete List of Common Samsung Washer Error Codes and What To Do About Them

There are loads (no pun intended) of error codes when it comes to your Samsung washing machine. Typically, several different codes can signal a similar issue across various models.

For example, many codes that begin with “E” are from older Samsung models. Furthermore, other numbering systems use several different codes to describe the same issue.

This is a look at the general Samsung error codes; for your specific model’s codes, consult your user manual.

Check out this video to learn how to run a diagnostic test on your Samsung washer.

Codes: 1E, LE, LE1, 1C, LC, LC1, 1 1C, 1 LC, E7, E9, 11E – Water Level Error or Leakage

These codes signal that there’s either an issue with the water level sensor, a low water level, or a leak.

1E, 1C, E7 — Water Level Sensor

Verify that the water hose connected to the sensor is still connected. Sometimes, this hose can come loose from the drum due to vibration.

Another possibility is the water hose is clogged, so the sensor cannot measure the water level properly. Detach the hose and blow into it to check for a clog. If the hose seems fine, you might just need to replace the sensor.

LE, LE1, E9, 11E, LC, LC1, 1LC, 11C — Low Water Level or Leak (Typically LE1 or LC1 signal a leak)

If your Samsung washer displays one of these codes, search for signs of a leak. If you find a leak, fix it or call a pro to repair it. This should erase the error message.

If your water level is low, check all of your supply and drain hoses to ensure they are not crimped. Do not remove any screws that hold your drain hose in place. If the holder for the drain hose is missing, you need to call for service.

Water Level Errors- Additional Steps to Try

Try running an empty cycle with no detergent and see if any suds appear in the machine. If so, it means that too much detergent or a non-HE detergent was used in a previous cycle.

Continue to run empty cycles until the suds disappear, then see if this fixes the error code. If the code returns after all of your efforts, you need to call for service.

Codes: nF, 4C, 4E, 14C, E1, 11E – Machine Not Filling

These codes signal an issue with water not filling the machine appropriately. In the case of code 11E, there is a low water level detected.

Two potential problems can cause this issue: a faulty water inlet valve or the water tap is off. First, ensure your hot and cold water supply hoses are connected correctly and not crimped or bent. Also, ensure that both supply valves are completely open.

Additionally, verify that the drain hose is inserted correctly, no more than 6 inches into the drain pipe. Unplug the machine and remove the washer’s top cover. Use a multimeter to test the inlet valves for continuity. If you get zero continuity it means the valve is defective. If all of the above is correct, unplug the machine and flip the circuit breaker. After a minute restore power and try to run a cycle.

If the problem is not resolved, call for service.

Codes: nF1, 4C2, 4E1, 4E2, 4C2, 4Ed, CE, E8, H1, HE, HC, 14C2 – Hot or Cold Error

These codes typically don’t indicate a need for service. Instead, more than likely, your hot and cold supply hoses are connected to the wrong inlets. Check your supply hoses and make sure that red goes to red and blue goes to blue. If this doesn’t solve issue, call a repairman.

Codes: nd, 5E, SE, 5C, SC, 15C, E2 – Water Not Draining

If your Samsung washer is flashing one of these codes, it signals a drainage problem. It could be that your machine is draining incorrectly or not at all.

Check the washing machine drain hose and the filter. Make sure everything is connected properly and tightly. Also, ensure the hose is not bent or clogged.

Codes: OE, 0E, OF, OC, 0C, 1OC, 10C, E3 – Overflow Error

These codes mean your washing machine has too much water in it. To fix the problem, try restarting your washer.

Codes: 9C1, 9C2, PF, 3E*, 2E, 9E1, 9E2, UC, 19C1, 19C2 – Voltage Error

If you see one of these codes, there’s something up with the electrical current going to the washing machine. Ensure your washer is plugged directly into an outlet and on its own circuit. Do not use an extension cord.

A PF code represents “Power Failure.” It can also occur if there was a power outage, the machine became unplugged, or you tripped a circuit breaker. You might also see this code if your washer model doesn’t originate from the country that it is in. This is because power grids vary from country to country.

If the code persists after checking the power source and restarting the machine, call for service.

*Note: 3E can signal a motor error in some models; consult your user’s manual if you see this code.

Codes: dS, d5, FL, LO, L0, dE, dE1, dE2, dC*, dC3, dC1, dL, 1dC, 1dC4, 1dC1, Ed – Door Error

Any of these codes can represent a problem with the main door of your washer, except dC3. dC3 represents an issue with the add-door. This is the small, extra door located in the washer’s main door. In some cases, dC can also signal an issue with the add-door.

Usually, these door codes mean the door is not closed and locked. Ensure that there is nothing caught in the door, and the latch is secured correctly. The same goes for the add-door. Sometimes, these codes can appear even when you aren’t washing anything. This is usually because the Child Lock feature is enabled and there is water in the tub.

If you have a FlexWash machine, the 1dC4 code signals that the rubber button by the latch is missing. In this scenario, you simply need to replace the button.

Otherwise, if the door or latch is damaged, or the code continues, request service.

*Note: On some models, dC represents an Unbalanced Load Error. Consult the manual for your machine to determine what this code means for your specific model.

Codes: SUd, 5UD, Sd, 5d, SUdS, 5Ud5 – Excessive Suds Error

You likely don’t need service if you see this code. Your machine is simply waiting for excess suds to dissipate and then it will continue with the cycle. If you see this code, it likely means you used too much detergent or the wrong detergent.

Codes: dc*, Ub, U6, Ur, UE, 1 Ub, 1U6, E4 – Unbalanced Load Error

If the items in your machine become off-balance, you might see one of these codes. Your machine can be unbalanced due to being over or under-filled, or when you are washing very bulky items. The UR code means that your machine will attempt to add water to balance the load and try again. The other codes mean the machine will quit mid-cycle.

If you see one of these codes, pause the cycle and check your washer drum. Redistribute the items around the tub to balance the weight and remove bulky items if necessary. If your machine is too empty, you might need to add some items. Finally, verify that the current cycle selection matches what you are trying to wash, and continue or restart the cycle.

*Note: On some models, dc represents a door error; consult your manual to determine the correct definition for your model.

Code: FE – Fan Error

The fan is not operating normally. You need to call a service center for this issue.

Codes: Cb, C6 – Calibration Mode

These codes simply signal that the washer is in calibration mode. This means that it is recalibrating the washer’s weight detection ability. Your washer detects the weight of items in the drum to determine how much water to use.

Calibration mode usually lasts about one to three minutes and stops by itself. However, it only works correctly if your washer is empty. If the code lingers, ensure your machine is empty, remove any items, and restart calibration mode.

Code: CL – Child Lock

Newer Samsung washer models show this code when the Child Lock feature has drained the water from the tub. This happens when the water level is unsafe and the door is open.

If you see this code, turn the washer off then back on, or you can turn off the child lock feature.

Codes: Hr, 1HC, HE1, HE2, HE3 – Water Heater, Steam Function

If you see HE1 or HE2, this signals an issue with the water heater or heating elements in your washer. Likewise, Hr and 1HC represent a heater issue. You need to contact a service center.

HE3 represents an issue with the steam function not operating normally. You need to call a technician for this issue.

Code: HOT – Machine Is Too Hot

This code simply lets you know your appliance is too hot and needs to cool down. It isn’t an issue or a problem.

Samsung Washer: Other Error Codes

There are a vast number of errors that relate to sensors and other electronic components of the Samsung washing machine.

If any of the following errors occur, restart the cycle. Turn off your washer for about three minutes. Then, turn it back on, and restart the cycle. You can also attempt this if you see an unfamiliar error code. If any of the following error codes persist after restarting, call for service.

18:8J – Model Option Error

This code appears with the FlexWash washer. It usually represents a communication issue between the two control boards behind the front panel. Your best option is to contact a technician for assistance.

3E*, 3C, 3E1, 3E2, 3E3, 3E4, bE, 6E, E3, 13C – Motor Error

*Consult your user manual for the specific 3E code meaning. The bE and 6E codes represent a motor speed sensor error. These codes can signal an overworked or faulty motor, tachometer issue, or controller error. Request service to diagnose the problem.

AE, AE6, AEb, AC6, ACb, AC, AC4, AC3, AC5, AE8, AEB, AE4, AE3, AE5, 1AC6, 1 AC, AC7, 13E, AE3 – Communication Error

The control module is having trouble communicating with the information display board. The circuit could be open. You can check it with a multimeter.

It could be a wiring issue, or you might just need to tighten the connections and contacts. Conversely, the control board or information display board could be faulty or malfunctioning.

Either way, you need to contact a service center. The AE3 Code can signal a DR Ready Modem error.

8E, 8E1, 8E2, BE, BE1, BE2, 8C, BC, 8C1, 8C2, BC1, BC2, 1 8C, 1 BC, 18C1, 1BC1, 18C2, 1BC2 – Mems Sensor Error

Mems is short for Micro Electro Mechanical Systems. You can try restarting your machine but might need to call a technician.

Note: In some models the 8E and BE code can represent a vibration sensor error. In other models, BE2 or 8E2 represents a jammed button error. Consult the user manual for the correct error code definition.

E2, bE2, 6E2, BE2*, 8E2*, 12E, 14E, 18E – Jammed Button Error

These codes mean a button on the panel is stuck. Turn off the machine, but before restarting, work each button back and forth until all buttons release. If any buttons are damaged or the code persists request service.

tE, tE1, tE2, tE3, tC, EC – Temperature Sensor Error

These codes signal that the controller isn’t getting a signal from the temperature sensor. Check all contacts and connections.

The temperature sensor could be faulty, or you might need a new controller or heating element relay. It’s best to call a tech to diagnose the issue.

HC, HE, HE1, Hr, 1 HC – Heater Error

The water in the tub is heating too much, too slowly, or not at all. The voltage could be too low, in which case you need to call an electrician. Or it could be a faulty heating relay, temperature sensor, or controller.

It can also signal a burnt-out heating element.

PC, PE / PC1, PE1 – Clutch Position Error / Clutch Hall Signal Error

The clutch controls the spinning of the tub and the agitator. In some cases, the clutch can be out of position or have a signal issue.

When this happens, the clutch can’t work properly. For example, it doesn’t release the brake to let the washer spin. You can try restarting the machine. Power off the machine, and check the sensor and wires before restarting. If the code persists, you need to call a tech.

7E – SilverCare Error

Samsung’s SilverCare technology helps remove bacteria and mold from inside the washer. This code signals an issue with this system. Check all the connections to the PCB (main control board), then restart the machine.

You might need to replace the SilverCare kit; alternatively, call for service.

IE, SF, 5F, SF1, SF2, SF3, 5F1, 5F2, 5F3, 1SF, Sr, 5r – System Error

The Sr and 5r codes specifically signal a system relay error. Try restarting your machine to see if it resets and erases the code. If not, call a technician.

Do You Need Appliance Installation or Replacement?

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Related Questions

How much does it cost to repair a washing machine?

The cost of repair depends highly on the issue. A simple fix may only cost you about $100, where more complex or major problems can cost over $400. It’s essential to get a few quotes for any large repair. Before paying for service make sure your machine isn’t still under warranty. Or, if you are knowledgeable and handy, you might be able to simply purchase parts and do the repair yourself. However, keep in mind that this could potentially void any warranty on your washing machine.Next, consider the age of your current machine. If your machine is older and the repair costly, you might want to consider purchasing a new washer instead.


Where can I find a list of Samsung washing machines involved in a recall?

In 2016, about 2.8 million Samsung washing machines were recalled due to a safety issue. You can find more information about this and other recalls by visiting the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

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Stacy Randall
Stacy Randall

Stacy Randall is a wife, mother, and freelance writer from NOLA that has always had a love for DIY projects, home organization, and making spaces beautiful. Together with her husband, she has been spending the last several years lovingly renovating her grandparent's former home, making it their own and learning a lot about life along the way.

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