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Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes – Complete Worldwide List, Meaning, Causes, Troubleshooting & Solutions

Modern Samsung automatic washing machines use electronic control systems, sensors, motors, pumps, valves and communication circuits to continuously monitor t...

Bison Technical Team Enterprise IT specialists

Updated 22 Aug 2026 17 min read 0 total views

Modern Samsung automatic washing machines use electronic control systems, sensors, motors, pumps, valves and communication circuits to continuously monitor the washing process. When the control system detects an abnormal operating condition, the washer may stop or restrict operation and display an information or error code.

These codes can identify problems involving water supply, drainage, door locking, load balance, water leakage, motor operation, heating, temperature sensing, water-level sensing and electronic communication.

Samsung's terminology and exact codes can differ between product generations and markets. Older models may display codes such as 4E, 5E, dE, UE, 3E and HE, while newer models may use 4C, 5C, dC, Ub, 3C and HC for similar fault families. Therefore, the user manual for the exact model should always take priority.

Samsung's current support documentation confirms, for example, that 4C/4E indicates a water-supply problem and 5C/5E indicates a drainage problem. Samsung also documents DE/DC as a door-related condition.

This guide covers Samsung front-load washers, top-load washers and applicable washer-dryer combination machines sold across India, USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and other Asian markets.

Important Safety Precautions Before Troubleshooting

Before opening filters, hoses or accessible components:

Switch the washing machine off.
Disconnect it from the electrical outlet.
Turn off the water supply when inspecting inlet or drain connections.
Never dismantle the PCB, inverter, motor, heater or internal wiring unless you are qualified to service electrical appliances.
If the machine has recently completed a hot wash, allow the water to cool before opening the drain filter.
Never continue operating a machine showing evidence of electrical burning, smoke, severe leakage or repeated circuit-breaker tripping.

Samsung specifically warns that water remaining after a hot-water cycle may be very hot and recommends allowing it to cool before drainage troubleshooting.

Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes and Solutions

1. Error Code 4C / 4E – Water Supply or Water Inlet Problem

Meaning

The washer is not receiving the expected amount of water within the required time.

Samsung identifies 4C/4E as a water-supply problem.

Possible Causes

Water tap is closed or partially open
Low household water pressure
Inlet hose is kinked
Inlet hose is blocked
Mesh inlet filter is dirty
Water supply has been interrupted
Frozen water line in cold climates
Faulty inlet valve
Water-level sensing problem
Wiring or PCB problem

Solution

Make sure the water tap is fully open.
Confirm that water is actually available from the tap.
Inspect the inlet hose for bending or kinking.
Turn off the water supply.
Disconnect the inlet hose.
Carefully remove and clean the inlet mesh filter.
Reinstall the filter and hose.
Check the connections for leakage.
Restart the washer.

Samsung recommends checking the tap, inlet hose and inlet mesh filter when troubleshooting this code.

If 4C/4E continues despite normal water pressure and clean filters, the inlet valve, pressure sensing system, wiring or control electronics may require professional diagnosis.

2. Error Code 4C2 / 4E2 – Incorrect Hot/Cold Water Supply

Meaning

The washer has detected an abnormal water-temperature condition or incorrect hot/cold water connection.

On applicable models, Samsung documentation describes 4C2 as a condition where supplied water is too hot.

Solution

Check:

Hot and cold inlet hose connections
Water temperature
Whether hoses have been reversed
Thermistor/temperature sensor operation if the problem persists

Connect each hose according to the installation instructions for your exact model.

3. Error Code 5C / 5E – Water Drainage Problem

Meaning

The washing machine cannot drain water correctly.

Samsung identifies 5C/5E as a drainage problem.

Common Causes

Blocked drain filter
Blocked drain hose
Kinked drain hose
Incorrect drain-hose installation
Drain pump obstruction
Failed drain pump
Wiring problem

Solution

Switch off the washer.
Allow hot water to cool.
Inspect the drain hose.
Remove any bends or kinks.
Check whether the hose is blocked.
On applicable front-load machines, clean the debris/drain-pump filter.
Confirm correct drain-hose installation.
Restart the washer.

Samsung notes that incorrect drain-hose installation is a common cause of drainage issues and recommends checking both the hose and debris filter.

If the machine still cannot drain, the pump or associated electrical system may need service.

4. Error Code dC / dE / DC – Door Open or Door Problem

Meaning

The washer detects that the door or lid is not correctly closed.

Samsung confirms that DE/DC may appear when the washing-machine door is left open.

Possible Causes

Door not fully closed
Clothing trapped in door
Excessive laundry preventing closure
Damaged latch
Faulty door-lock assembly
Wiring problem

Solution

Remove trapped clothing, reduce an overloaded load and firmly close the door.

Restart the machine.

If the error immediately returns with the door correctly closed, the door-lock mechanism or associated wiring may require inspection.

5. Error Code dC1 / dE1 – Door Lock Problem

This generally indicates a more specific problem involving the door locking or sensing system on applicable models.

Check

Door closes mechanically
Nothing is trapped around the gasket
Latch is not damaged
Lock assembly is securely positioned

If the washer cannot electronically confirm that the door is locked, professional servicing may be required.

6. Error Code dC3 – Add Door Problem

Applicable primarily to certain Samsung models equipped with an Add Door/AddWash door.

Possible Causes

Add Door not completely closed
Debris around latch
Latch malfunction
Add Door sensor problem

Solution

Stop the cycle safely, check the Add Door, remove any obstruction and close it firmly.

If dC3 repeatedly appears despite correct closure, the latch or sensing mechanism may require service.

7. Error Code UE / Ub – Unbalanced Laundry Load

Meaning

The washer cannot distribute the laundry evenly enough to perform the spin cycle safely.

Typical Causes

One heavy item
Towels or sheets concentrated on one side
Very small load
Excessively large load
Machine not level
Weak suspension components

Solution

Pause the machine and redistribute the clothes evenly.

For a single heavy item, add compatible items where appropriate to improve load balance.

Also verify that:

Washer stands on a solid floor
All feet touch the floor
Machine is correctly levelled

Persistent Ub/UE errors with normal loads may indicate suspension or sensing problems.

Samsung's support library provides dedicated troubleshooting for UE/UB errors on its washing machines.

8. Error Code OC / OE – Water Overflow

Meaning

The machine detects more water than expected.

Samsung's washer-dryer troubleshooting documentation identifies OC as water overflow.

Possible Causes

Water inlet valve stuck open
Pressure hose problem
Water-level sensor malfunction
Excessive foaming
Control-board problem

Solution

Turn the washer off and close the water tap if filling continues.

Restart only after confirming that uncontrolled filling has stopped.

Repeated overflow errors should be professionally diagnosed because uncontrolled water filling can cause flooding.

9. Error Code LC / LE – Water Leakage / Drain System Problem

Meaning

Depending on the model, the machine has detected leakage or an abnormal condition involving the drain system.

Check

Drain hose
Inlet hose connections
Door gasket
Detergent drawer
Drain-pump filter cap
Water underneath the machine
Excessive detergent/foam

Do not continue repeatedly running the washer when actual water leakage is present.

10. Error Code LC1 – Drain Hose / Leakage Detection

Samsung documentation for applicable washer-dryer models instructs users receiving LC or LC1 to check the drain hose, ensure its end is correctly positioned and verify that it is not clogged.

Correct the drain-hose installation and inspect for leakage.

If LC1 remains, arrange professional service.

11. Error Code 3C / 3E – Motor Operation Error

Meaning

The controller has detected abnormal drum-motor operation.

Samsung documentation identifies 3C/3E family codes as motor errors.

Possible Causes

Drum overloaded
Drum mechanically obstructed
Motor problem
Hall/tacho sensor problem
Wiring fault
Inverter/control-board fault

Solution

Switch the machine off.

Remove some laundry if overloaded and check that the drum is not physically obstructed.

Restart the washer.

Samsung's diagnostics documentation also shows that motor/spin diagnostic failures can generate 3C-family codes.

Persistent 3C/3E faults normally require technical diagnosis.

12. Error Codes 3C1 / 3C2 / 3C3 / 3C4 – Motor-Related Faults

These codes represent more specific motor-operation conditions on applicable models.

Samsung diagnostic documentation shows, for example, that particular agitation and high-speed spin test failures can produce 3C1 or 3C4.

Possible areas include:

Motor
Motor position sensing
Hall sensor
Wiring harness
Inverter/PBA
Mechanical drum resistance

Restart once after checking for overloading. Repeated codes should be diagnosed by a technician.

13. Error Code HC / HE – Heating Problem

Meaning

The machine detects abnormal water-heating operation or temperature.

Samsung lists HC/HE-family codes as heater errors on applicable models.

Possible Causes

Heater element failure
Temperature sensor problem
Heater relay problem
Wiring fault
Control-board issue

Because the heater operates on mains electricity, internal testing should be performed by a qualified technician.

14. Error Code HC1 / HE1 – Heater Fault

This code generally relates to abnormal heater operation on applicable Samsung models.

Possible components requiring inspection include:

Heating element
Thermistor
Heater wiring
Relay
Main control PCB/PBA

Disconnect the washer and arrange service if the error repeatedly returns.

15. Error Code HC2 / HE2 – Dryer Heater Problem

Applicable primarily to certain washer-dryer models.

The code may indicate an abnormal condition in the drying heater system.

Possible components include:

Dryer heating element
Temperature sensor
Thermal protection
Airflow system
Wiring
Control electronics

Professional diagnosis is recommended.

16. Error Code tC / tE – Temperature Sensor Error

Samsung identifies tC/tE-family codes as temperature sensor errors.

Possible Causes

Faulty thermistor
Loose sensor connector
Broken wiring
PCB/PBA problem

Solution

Turn the washer off, disconnect power briefly and restart.

If the error returns, sensor resistance, wiring and the control board should be professionally tested.

17. Error Code 1C / 1E – Water-Level Sensor Problem

Meaning

The machine cannot correctly determine the water level.

Samsung identifies 1C as a water-level sensor malfunction on applicable machines.

Possible Causes

Pressure sensor problem
Blocked pressure hose
Loose connector
Damaged wiring
Main PCB/PBA fault

Solution

Switch the washer off and restart the cycle.

If 1C/1E returns, servicing is recommended.

Do not continue operating a washer that is visibly overfilling.

18. Error Code 8C / 8E – MEMS / Vibration Sensor Problem

Meaning

The machine has detected a problem involving its MEMS or vibration sensing system.

Samsung lists 8C/8E and related codes as MEMS sensor errors on applicable models. Samsung's washer-dryer guidance similarly identifies 8C as a MEMS sensor problem.

Possible Causes

Sensor failure
Sensor wiring problem
Connector issue
PCB communication problem

Restart the washer once. Persistent errors generally require service.

19. Error Code AC / AE – Communication / Electronic Control Error

Meaning

Electronic modules inside the washer are not communicating correctly.

Samsung lists AC/AE-family codes as communication errors.

Possible Causes

Temporary electronic fault
Loose connector
Damaged communication wiring
Main PCB/PBA problem
Sub-PBA problem
Power-supply instability

Solution

Switch off and unplug the machine for several minutes.

Reconnect power and restart.

If the code returns, professional electronic diagnosis is recommended.

20. Error Code AC6 / AE6 – Communication Fault

This is another communication-related error on applicable Samsung models.

Samsung includes AC6 and AE6 among communication error codes.

Repeated AC6 errors can involve:

Main control PBA
Inverter or secondary PBA
Wiring harness
Connectors
Internal communication circuit

Service is normally required if a power reset does not clear the error.

21. Error Code PC / PE – Clutch Position Error

Primarily applicable to certain top-load designs.

Samsung identifies PC/PE as clutch position errors.

Possible Causes

Clutch mechanism problem
Position sensor problem
Motor/clutch obstruction
Wiring
PCB/PBA

Restart the machine once. If PC/PE returns, arrange service.

22. Error Code PC1 / PE1 – Clutch Hall Signal Error

Samsung lists PC1/PE1 as a clutch Hall signal error on applicable models.

This usually requires diagnosis of the clutch sensor, wiring, connector and related control circuitry.

23. Error Code Sud / SUdS / 5d – Excessive Suds

Meaning

The washer detects excessive detergent foam.

This is often caused by detergent use rather than a failed component.

Common Causes

Too much detergent
Non-HE detergent used in a machine requiring HE detergent
Incorrect detergent dosage
Very soft water combined with excessive detergent
Detergent residue buildup

Solution

Allow the machine time to reduce the foam.

For future washes:

Reduce detergent quantity
Use the detergent type recommended by the manufacturer
Follow detergent dosage instructions
Periodically run the recommended drum-cleaning cycle

Do not add additional detergent when a Sud/SUdS condition is displayed.

24. Hot Message – Drum or Machine Too Hot

Hot may be an operating information message rather than a hardware failure on applicable models.

It can appear when the drum, internal components or laundry remain too hot for safe operation or door opening.

Solution

Wait for the washer to cool.

Do not force the door open.

If Hot remains for an abnormally long period after cooling, consult the model-specific manual or Samsung support.

Quick Samsung Error Code Reference

Error Code	General Meaning	First Action
4C / 4E	Water supply problem	Check tap, inlet hose and mesh filter
4C2 / 4E2	Water temperature/connection problem	Check hot/cold supply
5C / 5E	Drainage problem	Check drain hose and filter
dC / dE	Door open/problem	Close door correctly
dC1 / dE1	Door-lock problem	Inspect door and latch
dC3	Add Door problem	Close/check Add Door
UE / Ub	Unbalanced load	Redistribute laundry
OC / OE	Overflow	Stop washer and check water filling
LC / LE	Leakage/drain issue	Inspect hoses and leakage
LC1	Drain hose/leak condition	Check drain-hose installation
3C / 3E	Motor error	Reduce load and restart
3C1–3C4	Motor-related fault	Restart; service if repeated
HC / HE	Heating error	Restart; service if repeated
HC1 / HE1	Heater fault	Professional inspection
HC2 / HE2	Dryer heater fault	Professional inspection
tC / tE	Temperature sensor	Restart; sensor inspection
1C / 1E	Water-level sensor	Restart; check professionally
8C / 8E	MEMS/vibration sensor	Restart; service if repeated
AC / AE	Communication error	Power reset
AC6 / AE6	Electronic communication	Power reset/service
PC / PE	Clutch position	Restart/service
PC1 / PE1	Clutch Hall signal	Service
Sud / SUdS / 5d	Excessive detergent foam	Reduce detergent
Hot	Temperature too high	Allow machine to cool

How to Reset a Samsung Washing Machine After an Error

A power reset can clear a temporary electronic condition, but it does not repair a genuine mechanical, electrical or plumbing fault.

A basic reset procedure is:

Switch the washing machine off.
Disconnect it from the electrical outlet.
Wait several minutes.
Reconnect power.
Switch the washer on.
Run a short cycle.

If the same code immediately returns, investigate the actual cause rather than repeatedly resetting the washer.

When Should You Call a Samsung Service Technician?

Professional service is recommended when:

An error immediately returns after basic troubleshooting
Water continuously enters the machine
Water leaks underneath the machine
Drain pump does not operate
Drum cannot rotate
Door cannot lock
Burning smell is present
Electrical sparking occurs
Circuit breaker repeatedly trips
Motor errors continue
Heater errors continue
Sensor errors repeatedly return
AC/AE communication errors remain
PCB/PBA inspection is required

Samsung's current support material similarly advises contacting customer care when several persistent information codes remain after the recommended basic corrective actions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What does 4C mean on a Samsung washing machine?

4C indicates that the washing machine has detected a water-supply problem. Check the water tap, inlet hose, water pressure and inlet mesh filter. Samsung officially identifies 4C/4E as a water-supply condition.

Q2. Are Samsung 4C and 4E the same error?

They generally belong to the same water-supply error family, with the displayed code depending on the washer generation and model.

Q3. What does Samsung 5C mean?

5C indicates that the washer cannot drain correctly. Check the drain hose, drain-pump/debris filter and drain installation.

Q4. Are 5C and 5E the same problem?

On many Samsung models, both relate to drainage problems. Always confirm the exact interpretation in the model's manual.

Q5. Why does my Samsung washer show dC or dE?

The washer detects that its door or lid is not correctly closed or cannot confirm its status. Samsung states that DE/DC can appear when the door is left open.

Q6. What does Ub mean?

Ub normally indicates that the laundry is unbalanced and the washer cannot safely reach the required spin speed.

Redistribute the load and ensure the machine is level.

Q7. What does Samsung washer 3C mean?

3C is generally a motor-operation error. Samsung's documentation identifies 3C among its motor error family.

Q8. Can overloading cause a 3C/3E error?

It can contribute to motor-operation problems because an excessive load places greater mechanical demand on the drive system. Reduce the load and retry once.

Q9. What does Samsung washer HC mean?

HC relates to abnormal heating operation on applicable models. Persistent HC/HE errors should normally be serviced.

Q10. What does 1C mean?

1C indicates a water-level sensor problem on applicable machines. Samsung recommends switching the machine off and restarting; persistent faults require service.

Q11. What is an 8C error?

8C generally relates to the MEMS sensor used by applicable Samsung machines for movement/vibration sensing.

Q12. What does AC mean on a Samsung washer?

AC indicates an electronic communication problem between control modules on applicable models.

Q13. Can I fix AC6 myself?

You can try a complete power restart. If AC6 returns, professional diagnosis is advisable because it can involve internal communication wiring or electronic boards.

Q14. Why does my washer display Sud or SUdS?

The machine has detected excessive foam, usually because too much detergent or an unsuitable detergent has been used.

Q15. Should I turn off the washer when it displays Sud?

Usually the washer attempts to manage the excess foam automatically. Avoid adding more detergent and follow the instructions for your model.

Q16. Why does my Samsung washer keep showing 5C after cleaning the filter?

Possible causes include a blocked drain hose, incorrect drain installation, pump obstruction, defective drain pump, wiring problem or control-system fault.

Q17. Can low water pressure cause 4C?

Yes. The washer must receive enough water within the expected time. Poor supply or restrictions in the inlet system can cause a filling error.

Q18. Why does 4C appear even when the tap is open?

Check for a kinked inlet hose, clogged mesh filter, insufficient pressure or inlet-valve problem.

Q19. Can I clean the Samsung washing-machine inlet filter myself?

For many models, yes. Turn off the water supply, disconnect the inlet hose and carefully clean the accessible mesh filter according to the model instructions. Samsung recommends periodic cleaning of this filter.

Q20. Is it safe to open the drain filter immediately after an error?

Not after a hot wash. Water inside the machine may be very hot. Allow it to cool before manually draining or opening the pump filter.

Q21. Why does my Samsung washing machine keep becoming unbalanced?

Possible causes include uneven laundry distribution, a single heavy item, incorrect machine levelling, unstable flooring or worn suspension components.

Q22. What should I do if OC appears?

OC indicates overflow on applicable models. Stop the machine and monitor whether water continues entering. If it does, close the water tap and arrange service.

Q23. What should I do if water is actually leaking?

Stop the machine, disconnect power when safe, close the water supply and identify the source. Do not repeatedly operate a visibly leaking washer.

Q24. Will unplugging a Samsung washer fix every error code?

No. Power cycling may clear a temporary electronic condition, but it cannot repair a blocked pump, failed heater, damaged sensor, defective motor or leaking hose.

Q25. Why is my error code different from codes shown online?

Samsung has produced many washer generations for different markets. Codes, meanings and recommended procedures can vary by model.

Q26. Are Samsung washing-machine error codes the same worldwide?

Many major error families are similar internationally, but they are not guaranteed to be identical. Always check the manual for the exact model and market.

Q27. Where can I find my Samsung washing-machine model number?

The model information is normally printed on a product label attached to the washer. Its exact location depends on whether the machine is a front-loader, top-loader or washer-dryer.

Q28. Can a faulty PCB cause multiple error codes?

Yes. Electronic communication, sensor supply or control problems can potentially result in repeated or apparently unrelated errors. Proper diagnosis is necessary before replacing a PCB.

Q29. Should I replace the PCB whenever AC appears?

No. Wiring, connectors, power conditions and other modules should be checked before concluding that the PCB is defective.

Q30. When should I stop troubleshooting myself?

Stop when troubleshooting requires opening mains-voltage electrical sections, testing live circuitry, dismantling the motor or heater system, or when the washer is leaking, overheating, sparking or repeatedly tripping the electrical supply.

Important Note About Samsung Error-Code Variations

A code should never be interpreted solely from a generic internet list when performing component-level repairs.

Samsung manufactures many washing-machine families, and codes can differ according to:

Model number
Manufacturing year
Country/region
Front-load or top-load design
Washer-only or washer-dryer configuration
Control-board generation
Display type

For example, Samsung's broader international support documentation groups numerous variants under motor, communication and MEMS sensor error families.

Therefore, always confirm the code against the user/service documentation for the exact Samsung model before ordering parts.

For official troubleshooting information, refer to Samsung Support.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for general educational and troubleshooting purposes only. Error-code definitions and troubleshooting procedures may vary according to the Samsung washing-machine model, manufacturing year, software/firmware version and country of sale.

Always refer to the official user manual and Samsung support documentation for your exact model before performing repairs.

Disconnect electrical power before carrying out maintenance. Do not dismantle mains-voltage electrical components unless you are appropriately trained and qualified. If the machine shows electrical burning, severe leakage, uncontrolled filling, overheating, sparking or repeated circuit-breaker tripping, discontinue use and obtain professional service.