Samsung washer error codes at a glance

Troubleshooting a Samsung washer

Use HE detergent, keep the door ajar after use and run a Self Clean cycle every month or so to keep odors down. If a code returns after power cycling, unplug the washer for a minute and call Samsung service with the code and model number from the label.

Samsung washers report problems with short codes such as 4C for a water supply fault, 5C or SC for a drain fault, UE for an unbalanced load and dE for a door that is not latched. Most of these respond to the same checks: confirm the taps are open, the hoses are not kinked and the inlet filters are clean, clear the drain-pump filter and redistribute a heavy or bunched load. Always read the code against the model, since front-load and top-load Samsungs differ.

Turn the washer off and unplug it for a few minutes to reset the controls, then run a short cycle to see whether the code returns. Codes for the motor, the control board or the water valve need a technician. Keep the door gasket and drain filter clean, and use high-efficiency detergent in the right amount.

Samsung front-loaders and top-loaders use different panels, so check whether yours shows letter codes or lights. Vibration and imbalance are common reasons for UE and drain codes: level the washer, remove shipping bolts on a new front-loader and avoid washing a single heavy item. The washer's self-clean cycle helps with smells, and the door gasket should be wiped and left to dry.

Check the model label before you pick a fix, because the family decides which panel and which codes you have. Samsung front-load washers carry model numbers beginning WF and top-load washers beginning WA, and the label inside the door or lid shows the full number. Write down the exact code, whether it is steady or flashing, and what the washer was doing when it stopped, since a code on a half-filled drum points to a different part than the same code at the start of a cycle.