Samsung Washer Error Code tE: Water Temperature Sensor Error
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What Error Code tE Means
Your Samsung washer displays tE when the main control board receives an out-of-range reading from the water temperature sensor (thermistor). The thermistor is a small probe inserted into the outer tub or the heater housing that changes resistance as the water temperature changes. When the resistance reading falls outside the expected range, the board cannot regulate water temperature and halts the cycle.
Common Causes
Failed thermistor
The thermistor probe itself fails. Its resistance goes to zero (short circuit) or infinity (open circuit), sending an extreme value to the control board. This is the most common cause.
Loose thermistor connection
The wire connector on the thermistor works loose from vibration over time. The intermittent connection causes erratic temperature readings.
Damaged thermistor wiring
The wire harness between the thermistor and the control board is pinched, cut, or corroded. This breaks or alters the resistance signal.
Faulty main control board
The temperature sensing circuit on the control board fails. The board misreads a good thermistor signal. This is uncommon but happens on boards with corroded solder joints.
How to Fix It
- 1
Power cycle the washer
Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. Run a cycle. A temporary sensor glitch sometimes clears with a power reset. If tE returns, the sensor needs testing.
- 2
Locate the thermistor
Unplug the washer. On front-loaders, remove the back panel. The thermistor is a small cylindrical probe inserted into the lower part of the outer tub or into the heater element housing. It has a two-wire connector. On top-loaders, remove the top panel and look for the sensor on the inner tub wall or near the water inlet.
Confirm the washer is unplugged before accessing internal components.
- 3
Check the thermistor connection
Disconnect and reconnect the thermistor wire harness connector. Push it in firmly until it clicks. Corroded terminals need cleaning with electrical contact cleaner spray and a small wire brush.
- 4
Test the thermistor resistance
Disconnect the thermistor harness. Set a multimeter to the 20K ohms range. Place the probes on the two thermistor terminals. At room temperature (about 77 degrees F / 25 degrees C), a healthy Samsung thermistor reads approximately 10,000 ohms (10K). A reading of 0 ohms means a short circuit. A reading of OL (over limit) means an open circuit. Either extreme confirms a bad thermistor.
- 5
Replace the thermistor
Pull the old thermistor straight out of its housing. Note the orientation of the probe. Push the new thermistor into the same housing until it seats fully. Reconnect the wire harness. The part is model-specific -- order by your Samsung model number from the rating plate inside the door frame.
- 6
Test the repair
Reinstall the back or top panel. Plug in the washer. Run a Normal cycle with warm water. The washer should fill, heat the water to the target temperature, and complete the cycle without displaying tE.
When to Call a Professional
Call a technician if the thermistor tests within range but tE persists, as this points to a control board issue. TruePro charges a $59 diagnostic fee credited toward the repair. All work includes a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. Same-day service is often available in LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $10 - $30 |
| Professional repair | $150 - $275 |
A replacement thermistor costs $10-30. Professional repair includes the $59 diagnostic credit, the part, and labor. First-time customers save 15% on labor with code NEW15.
See full washer repair cost breakdown βSamsung Washer tE β FAQ
Related Samsung Error Codes
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