Samsung · Dryer

tE

Heater Thermistor Error

Severity

Medium

Your Samsung Dryer stopped working and is showing error tE, which corresponds to a fault called "Heater Thermistor Error". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.

Owner's Summary

Your Samsung dryer is running but producing no heat. The thermistor (temperature sensor) or the heating element itself has failed. Both are moderately priced parts and commonly replaced without needing a full technician visit.

Symptoms

Samsung dryer not heating at all, tE error code on display

Common Causes

Open or shorted NTC thermistor
Failed heating element
Burned heater relay on PCB
Wiring harness fault to heater

How to Fix

1 Test thermistor resistance at room temperature
2 Test heating element continuity — replace if open circuit
3 Inspect wiring harness for heat damage near the heater
4 Replace thermistor or heating element based on test results

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Flashlight

These are simple, low-risk fixes most homeowners can do with tools already in a basic toolbox.

Technical Explanation

The PCB monitors thermistor resistance to regulate heater cycling. tE is triggered when the resistance reading is outside the valid range — either an open circuit (infinite resistance) or shorted circuit (near-zero resistance) — and the board disables the heater relay as a precaution.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No fire risk from this code itself, but a dryer that runs without heat wastes significant time and energy. Fix within a week.

Technician's Pro Tip

Test the thermistor first since it's the cheaper part — disconnect it and measure resistance with a multimeter. A reading of zero or infinite ohms confirms thermistor failure rather than the more expensive heating element.

Related Codes

E2 — Samsung Washing Machine

Water Supply Error

High

4E — Samsung Washing Machine

No Water Supply Detected

High

5E — Samsung Washing Machine

Drain Error — Water Not Draining

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code tE mean on a Samsung Dryer?

Code tE on a Samsung Dryer indicates "Heater Thermistor Error." In practice, the most common trigger is open or shorted NTC thermistor. Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $15 to $200.

Can I fix tE myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of tE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: test thermistor resistance at room temperature. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my dryer with code tE showing?

No fire risk from this code itself, but a dryer that runs without heat wastes significant time and energy. Fix within a week.

How much does it cost to repair tE on a Samsung Dryer?

Repair costs for code tE typically range from $15 to $200. Thermistor: $15–$40; Heating element: $50–$150; PCB: $80–$200. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$15 – $200

Thermistor: $15–$40; Heating element: $50–$150; PCB: $80–$200