Samsung washing machines are known for their durability, advanced technology, and smart diagnostic systems. But when something goes wrong, your washer may display an error code to help you understand the problem. These codes can look confusing, but they are actually helpful indicators of what needs attention whether it’s a water issue, drainage problem, motor fault, or sensor malfunction.

This complete guide explains every common Samsung washing machine error code, what they mean, and how you can fix them before calling a technician.

 Why Samsung Washers Show Error Codes

Samsung washers are designed with built in sensors that automatically detect faults related to:

• Water inlet
  
• Drainage
  
• Motor operation
  
• Door lock
  
• Temperature
  
• Load balance
  
• Internal communication (PCB errors)
  

Understanding the error code helps you fix the issue faster and prevents further damage.

Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes & Their Meanings

Here are the most frequently displayed Samsung washer error codes and their solutions:

1. 4C / 4E Water Supply Error

Meaning: The washing machine is not getting enough water.

Causes:

• Water tap closed
  
• Low water pressure
  
• Blocked inlet filter
  
• Bent or clogged supply hose
  

Solution:

• Open water tap fully
  
• Clean inlet filter screen
  
• Make sure pressure is stable
  
• Straighten or replace the hose
  

2. 5C / 5E Drainage Error

Meaning: The washer cannot drain water.

Causes:

• Clogged drain hose
  
• Blocked pump filter
  
• Faulty drain pump
  

Solution:

• Open and clean pump filter
  
• Remove obstructions from drain hose
  
• If still not draining → pump may need replacement
  

Drain issues are extremely common in Dubai and Abu Dhabi due to sand and lint buildup.

3. UE / UB Unbalanced Load

Meaning: Laundry inside the drum is uneven.

Causes:

• Too few clothes
  
• Overloaded drum
  
• Clothes stuck on one side
  
• Worn suspension rods
  

Solution:

• Redistribute clothes
  
• Add or remove items to balance load
  
• If vibration continues → technician needed
  

4. dE / dE1 / dE2 Door Error

Meaning: Door is not closing or locking properly.

Causes:

• Dirty or damaged door gasket
  
• Faulty door lock switch
  
• Loose wiring
  

Solution:

• Push door firmly
  
• Clean rubber seal
  
• Replace faulty door lock mechanism
  

5. HE / HC Heating Error

Meaning: The washer cannot heat the water.

Causes:

• Faulty heating element
  
• Damaged thermostat
  
• Limescale buildup in heater
  

Solution:

• Use descaling powder
  
• Replace heating element if needed
  

Hard water in the UAE is a major cause of heating failures.

6. LE / LC Water Leak Error

Meaning: The machine detects a leak.

Causes:

• Loose hoses
  
• Cracked drain pipe
  
• Water in base tray triggering float sensor
  

Solution:

• Check all hose connections
  
• Inspect bottom tray for water
  
• Fix or replace damaged hoses
  

7. 3C Motor Error

Meaning: The motor is not functioning correctly.

Causes:

• Motor overheating
  
• Weak motor capacitor
  
• Faulty inverter board
  
• Overloading
  

Solution:

• Reduce load
  
• Let machine cool down
  
• Technician will need to check motor or PCB
  

8. 8C Vibration Sensor Error

Meaning: Machine cannot detect proper vibration level.

Causes:

• Laundry cabinet too tight
  
• Sensor fault
  
• Uneven flooring
  

Solution:

• Move machine slightly away from walls
  
• Level the washer
  
• Replace vibration sensor if needed
  

9. AE / AC Communication Error

Meaning: Internal communication between PCB and motor is failing.

Causes:

• Loose wiring
  
• Faulty PCB
  
• Power surge
  

Solution:

• Reset machine
  
• Improve power supply
  
• Replace PCB if required
  

10. OE Overflow Error

Meaning: Too much water detected in the drum.

Causes:

• Faulty water level sensor
  
• Pressure hose blockage
  
• Inlet valve stuck open
  

Solution:

• Clean pressure hose
  
• Replace water level sensor
  
• Replace inlet valve
  

Troubleshooting Steps Before Calling a Technician

You can fix many Samsung washing machine issues with simple steps:

✔ Reset the washer

Unplug for 5 minutes and plug back in.

✔ Clean the pump filter

Fixes most 5C/5E errors.

✔ Check the water inlet

Weak flow causes 4C errors.

✔ Balance the load

Resolves most UE/UB codes.

✔ Improve ventilation

Prevents overheating and 3C motor errors.

If errors continue, a professional inspection is required.

Common Samsung Washer Problems in UAE

Technicians report these frequent issues:

• No water inlet (4C)
  
• Drainage failures (5C)
  
• Door not locking (dE)
  
• Drum not spinning
  
• Overheating due to tight laundry cabinets
  
• Heating faults (HE)
  
• Motor or inverter issues (3C)
  

How to Prevent Samsung Washing Machine Problems

• Clean pump filter monthly
  
• Avoid overloading
  
• Use descaler every 2 months
  
• Ensure proper machine ventilation
  
• Wipe rubber gasket after every wash
  
• Use a stabilizer to protect PCB
  
• Clean drain hose periodically

Final Thoughts

Samsung washing machine error codes may look complicated, but in most cases, they clearly point to specific issues that can be fixed with simple checks. If problems persist, a professional technician can quickly diagnose and repair the fault to get your washer running smoothly again.

Frequently Asked Questions