Heating Error

What it means

This code appears on Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines when the water does not heat as expected, or gets hotter than it should, during the wash; older models show the same fault as HE. The washer usually stops or continues without heating depending on the model, and cold programs may still run normally. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines; newer models show codes ending in C (e.g. 4C), older ones end in E (e.g. 4E) with the same meaning.

Related codes: TCLC1CAC

Symptoms4

• HC appears during hot programs such as high-temperature cotton.
• Clothes come out cold even though a hot program was selected.
• The cycle runs much longer than usual before the code appears.
• In some cases the breaker or safety switch trips.

Possible causes6

• Failed heater element, often burnt out by limescale.
• Faulty water temperature sensor (thermistor).
• Loose or burnt connector on the heater or sensor wiring.
• Low supply voltage or the washer plugged into a weak power strip.
• Incorrect water level causing the heater to run without enough water.
• Faulty heater relay on the main board.

How to diagnose6

1. Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then restart it on a short medium-temperature program.
2. Make sure the washer is plugged directly into a sound wall socket, with no power strip or extension cord.
3. Try a cold program; if it finishes without the code, the heating circuit is the likely cause.
4. A technician unplugs the washer before opening it, then measures the heater and temperature sensor and compares the readings with the manufacturer specification.
5. The technician checks the connectors and wiring for burning or corrosion, and tests the heater insulation if the breaker trips.
6. If the heater and sensor are good, the technician checks the heater output on the main board.

How to fix6

1. Plug the washer into its own grounded wall socket.
2. Repair the loose or burnt connector on the heater or sensor wiring.
3. Replace the temperature sensor if its reading is out of specification.
4. Replace the failed heater, and descale the tub when doing so.
5. Repair or replace the main board if the heater output is confirmed faulty.
6. Run a hot program and confirm the temperature rises and the code does not return.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is low for a connector repair or a new temperature sensor, moderate for a new heater, and reaches the high end if the main board must be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions