Samsung Washer 4E Code: What It Means and How to Fix It

If you’re like most people, you’re grateful for washing machines since you don’t have to wash your clothes by hand. However, when your washer stops working, it can be a huge inconvenience. Luckily, Samsung washers display error codes when they experience issues, so you can hopefully get your machine going again quickly.

If your Samsung washer displays a 4E error code, this signals a problem with the machine’s water supply. Whether you have a top-load or front-load washer, the 4E code means the machine can’t fill with water. Several reasons can cause this error, and once you determine the right one, you can find the proper fix.

Washing machines just might be one of the best inventions on the planet, but they’re not much good without water. If your Samsung washing machine displays a 4E error code, it’s time to dig a little deeper into the issue.

The 4E error code means something is preventing water from entering your washing machine. Your first step to fixing the issue is figuring out the exact cause since there are several possibilities.

Before starting your investigation, safety first! Turn off the washing machine and remove it from the main power source. Both of these steps are essential to avoid the potential for serious injury.

Note: If your Samsung machine is off but still plugged in, it could still start suddenly. For example, you could hit a button accidentally. Therefore, ensure you unplug your machine.

A washing machine typically has two inlets for water: hot and cold. There should be a pipe or hose running to each inlet. You might also see the main pipe, then a splitter that directs the water to the two separate entry points.

Regardless of the setup, your machine should definitely have water coming in from both points. Your machine will display the 4E code if water does not come in from both entries. Even if one entry point sufficiently supplies your machine with enough water, you’ll still get the 4E code.

However, if water enters your machine from two entry points, and the 4E code persists, move to step four.

If the supply valves are fully open and water is entering the machine through two points, check the supply pipes. It’s essential to ensure these pipes aren’t bent or squished in any way so water can flow freely through them.

A common cause of bent pipes is a machine that is too close to the wall. You might simply need to pull your machine forward a bit to provide more space for the pipes. If this is the case, try to straighten out the pipes by hand.

In some cases, the supply pipes might be cracked or damaged. Typically, you should replace supply hoses every three to five years. But, it’s vital to inspect these hoses once a year.

Washing machine leaks are some of the most common damaging leaks in a house. Note: If you notice your supply hoses are damaged, rusted, or badly bent, replace the hoses. You can purchase new supply hoses for roughly $10 to $50 depending on the length, material, and vendor.

If the supply pipes appear to be in good condition from the outside, it’s time to check the inside of the hoses. There could potentially be something inside the hose, clogging it.

Close the water supply valves and remove the supply hose from the back of the machine. Note: First, place a bucket underneath the hose to catch the water that is still inside the pipe. Before you run water through the pipes, check the mesh screen filters in the supply hoses. You might just need to give the filters a gentle clean with a toothbrush or similar brush.

Next, turn the supply valve back on to let water run through the hose. If water is not flowing freely, then something is likely stuck inside the pipe. See if you can use a wire hanger or plumber’s snake to release the clog.

If this doesn’t resolve the issue, or nothing was clogging the supply pipe, move on to step 6.

Ensure the drain hose is not loose. Plus, you should not insert the drain hose more than 6 inches into the drainpipe. Additionally, the drain hose should be secured to the back of the washing machine with a holder and screw. Do not remove the holder or screw. If the screw is missing, you can replace it with any screw.

However, if the holder is missing, you need to call for service. Verify that all looks good with the drain hose before moving on to the next step.

It is possible that the small hose connected to the water pressure switch is clogged. Check the hose. If you find a clog, try to release it by blowing through it.

If there is no clog, check the continuity of the wires from the pressure switch to the control board. (Make sure to power off and unplug the machine first). You can use a multimeter for this.

If you feel comfortable, try removing the pressure switch and putting it back. It could be a communication error, and the control board can’t read how much water is coming into the machine. Therefore, you get the 4E code. Or, you might need to replace the water pressure switch. You can usually purchase this part for between $20 and $50 at a parts store or online.

If you have tried all of the above and still see “4E”, then you might need to call a pro. The problem is likely with your Samsung washer’s water inlets.

First, check inside the inlets with a flashlight. You might get lucky and find something clogging the inlet that you can remove easily. However, if not, your inlets likely have an internal clog.

To check this problem, you need to open your washing machine. Make sure the machine is off and unplugged. You need to check the machine’s wiring. Specifically, you need to ensure the wire harness is connected to the water inlets.

If it is, check to see if the solenoid valve is faulty. If it is, replace it, close the machine, and restart. A solenoid valve can cost between $15 and $50. If you don’t want to deal with wiring issues or opening your machine, you need to call a technician.

FloodSafe hoses are meant to shut off the water if the valve detects an increase in water flow. For example, if the pipe bursts, the FloodSafe mechanism kicks in and shuts off the water.

While this device might sound like it’s a no-brainer, it’s not a good match for all washing machines. In fact, many repairmen claim to go out on quite a few service calls thanks to these types of hoses.

Samsung specifically states on its website not to use FloodSafe hoses with its washing machines. Therefore, if you happen to have this product on your machine, remove it, and use regular hoses.

Related Questions

Are there other error codes that can signal an issue with my Samsung washer’s water supply?

Samsung washing machines feature a number of error codes, and many codes can point to similar issues. When it comes to problems with the machine’s water supply, you might see several codes instead of 4E. 

These codes include: nF, 4C, 4E, 14C, E1, or 11E. All of these codes signal an issue with your machine not filling. 

How much does it cost to have a washing machine professionally serviced and repaired?

Basically, the cost of repair fluctuates depending on the actual issue with the machine. A simple fix might only cost you about $100, where more complex problems can cost upward of $400. Therefore, always get multiple quotes, especially for any extensive repair. Before paying for any service, make sure your machine isn’t still under warranty. Or, if you are knowledgeable and handy, you might be able to simply purchase parts and do the repair yourself. However, keep in mind that this could potentially void any warranty on your washing machine.Next, consider the age of your current machine. If your machine is older and the repair is costly, you might want to consider purchasing a new washer instead.