Unbalanced Load

What it means

This code appears on Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines when the washer detects that the laundry is bunched on one side of the drum and cannot spin safely; some models show it as UE or Ub. The washer tries to redistribute the load, then cancels or slows the spin if it fails. 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: 8C3C5CDC

Symptoms4

• The washer stops before or during spin and shows UB.
• Clothes come out very wet because the spin did not finish.
• Heavy shaking, knocking or the washer walking across the floor before the code.
• The code repeats with single heavy items such as blankets or small rugs.

Possible causes7

• One heavy item or a very small load gathering on one side.
• Overloading, or clothes rolled up inside a duvet cover.
• Washer not level or a loose foot.
• Soft or unstable floor increasing vibration.
• Transit bolts not removed from a newly installed washer.
• Worn shock absorbers or springs holding the tub.
• Worn drum bearings or a vibration sensor fault (less common).

How to diagnose6

1. Stop the washer, wait for the door to unlock, then untangle the clothes and spread them evenly in the drum.
2. Add similar items if the load is one heavy piece, or remove some if it is overloaded.
3. Check the washer is level with a spirit level and press on each corner to find any rocking.
4. On a new washer, make sure the rear transit bolts were removed as the user manual explains.
5. If the code repeats with normal loads, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the shock absorbers, springs and bearings.
6. If the mechanical parts are good, the technician checks the vibration sensor or main board.

How to fix6

1. Redistribute the laundry evenly and run the spin program again.
2. Wash heavy items together with similar pieces and do not exceed the rated capacity.
3. Adjust the feet until the washer is level and tighten the lock nuts.
4. Remove the transit bolts if they are still fitted.
5. Replace worn shock absorbers or springs.
6. Replace the drum bearings if confirmed worn, then run a full spin and confirm the code does not return.

There is usually no cost because redistributing the load or leveling the feet fixes it; the range starts at a technician visit and reaches the high end when bearings 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