Fault code guide

Samsung tumble dryer error codes

Many Samsung tumble dryers sold in the UK are heat pump models, and several of their codes are simply reminders to clean a filter or empty the water. Below is what each code means, and which ones point to a real fault.

Checked against Samsung’s own guidance, October 2026

Before you check anything: switch the appliance off at the wall first. Never remove covers or panels from a machine that’s plugged in. If you smell burning, see scorching or the appliance trips your electrics, leave it switched off and get it looked at.

Samsung tumble dryers

What each code means

Codes ending in C and E mean the same fault; the letter depends on the model.

How to clean your tumble dryer’s filters
  1. dCdE The door is open or not closed properly.

    Try this first
    • Close the door firmly and check no laundry is caught in it.
    • Make sure Child Lock isn’t on, then start again.

    If it persists with the door shut, the door switch or catch needs checking.

  2. dF The door switch isn’t reading correctly.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off at the wall and restart once.

    The door switch or its wiring usually needs replacing.

  3. NCNC1 The lint filter needs checking.

    Try this first
    • Remove the lint filter, clear the fluff, rinse it if needed and dry it.
    • Refit it fully so it sits flush.

    If the code stays with a clean, correctly fitted filter, the sensing needs checking.

  4. NC2 The inner cover of the heat exchanger isn’t fitted properly.

    Try this first
    • Open the lower cover and check the inner cover is in place with its levers locked.

    If it’s fitted correctly and the code remains, the cover sensing needs checking.

  5. FIL + tEr The heat exchanger needs cleaning.

    Try this first
    • Clean the heat exchanger with the brush supplied, brushing gently up and down. See our step-by-step tumble dryer filter guide.

    If drying is still poor once it’s clean, the airflow or heat pump system needs testing.

  6. 5C5E The dryer can’t drain the water it collects.

    Try this first
    • If the dryer drains to a waste pipe, check the drain hose isn’t bent, damaged or frozen.
    • Empty the water container and restart.

    If it continues, the condensate pump or its pipework needs checking.

  7. tCtE A problem with the air temperature sensor.

    Try this first
    • Clean the lint filter and the heat exchanger.
    • Make sure nothing is restricting airflow around the dryer.

    If it comes back with everything clean, the sensor needs testing.

  8. tC5tE5 A problem with the compressor temperature sensor.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Wait two or three minutes, then restart.
    • Check the lint filter isn’t clogged.

    If it returns, the sensor or heat pump circuit needs testing.

  9. HCHE The compressor is overheating, or the temperature is too high.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Check your fuse box: reset the breaker if it has tripped.
    • Clean the lint filter and restart.

    If it happens again, stop using the dryer and have it checked. Overheating shouldn’t be ignored.

  10. 3C3E The drum motor isn’t running correctly.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Check the drum isn’t overloaded, then restart.

    If it comes back, the motor, belt or inverter needs testing.

  11. ACAE A problem with the electronic control.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off at the wall for a minute and restart.

    Samsung advises a service visit if this code appears.

  12. AC6AE6 The main board and inverter board aren’t communicating.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Restart the cycle.

    If it persists, the boards or wiring between them need checking.

  13. FCFE The power supply frequency is out of range.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Restart the cycle.

    If it continues, the power board needs checking.

  14. 9C19E19C29E2 A power supply problem.

    Try this first
    • Check the plug is fully in, and use a wall socket rather than an extension lead.

    If it persists on a direct socket, the supply or power board needs checking.

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Sources

Where this information comes from

Every code on this page has been checked against Samsung’s own support guidance. Codes can differ between models and years, so your manual has the final word. LDN Appliance Care is independent and not affiliated with Samsung.

Not sure?

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Message us a photo of the display and the model number (usually on a label inside the door or around the door rim) and we’ll tell you what it points to and whether it’s likely to be worth repairing.

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