Temperature Sensor Error

Home Appliance Error Codes Samsung Washing machines

Can you still use it? With care until repaired

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 80 to 1,500

What it means

This code appears on Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines when the water temperature sensor (thermistor) reading is out of the logical range or open; older models show the same fault as tE. The washer cannot control water temperature, so it stops or blocks hot programs depending on the model. The same code can mean something else on other brands, and its meaning may differ between some Samsung series, so check it against the model manual.

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.

Symptoms4

TC appears at the start of the cycle or when a hot program is chosen.
Clothes come out cold, or the water temperature does not suit the program.
Cold programs may run without a problem.
The code may appear together with or after HC.

Possible causes5

Loose or corroded connector at the temperature sensor from moisture.
Failed temperature sensor (thermistor), usually mounted near the heater.
Damaged or broken wire between the sensor and the main board.
Failed heater on models where the sensor is part of the heater assembly.
Faulty sensor input circuit on the main board (less common).

How to diagnose5

Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then restart it.
Try a cold program to see whether the code shows on all programs or only hot ones.
A technician unplugs the washer before opening it, then measures the sensor and compares the reading with the manufacturer table at room temperature.
The technician checks the connectors and wiring between the sensor and the board for corrosion or breaks.
If the sensor and wiring are good, the technician checks the sensor input circuit on the main board.

How to fix6

Restart the washer after unplugging it to rule out a one-off glitch.
Clean or tighten a corroded connector.
Repair a damaged wire between the sensor and the board.
Replace the temperature sensor, or the heater assembly if the sensor is built into it.
Repair or replace the main board only after the sensor and wiring are confirmed good.
Run a hot program and confirm the temperature rises and the code does not return.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

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

The cost is low for a new sensor or a connector repair, higher if a heater with a built-in sensor must be replaced, and reaches the high end for a main board.

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

My older washer shows tE. Is it the same code?

Yes. Older Samsung models show tE and newer ones show TC; both mean a water temperature sensor fault.

What is the difference between TC and HC?

TC points to the temperature sensor reading itself, while HC means heating did not happen as expected. They can appear together because the sensor and heater sit close to each other.

Can I wash in cold water until it is fixed?

Usually yes, if the cold program finishes without the code. Have the sensor checked soon, because the washer cannot control temperature.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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