Samsung · Washing Machine

tE

Water Temperature Sensor Error

Severity

Medium

When a Samsung Washing Machine shows tE on its display, the internal diagnostic system has flagged a condition known as "Water Temperature Sensor Error". Most repairs for this code are straightforward and can be completed at home.

Owner's Summary

Your Samsung washer's water temperature sensor is reporting an error, so the machine cannot heat the wash water to the correct temperature. Clothes washed in cold water still get clean, but sanitizing cycles will not work until this is fixed.

Symptoms

Samsung washer not heating water, stopping mid-cycle, tE error displayed

Common Causes

Faulty NTC water temperature sensor
Damaged wiring to the heater or sensor
Failed heating element
Control board heater relay burned out

How to Fix

1 Test NTC sensor resistance at room temperature (should read approximately 10k–50k ohms)
2 Inspect heater wiring harness for burn marks or loose connections
3 Test heating element continuity — replace if open circuit
4 Replace NTC thermistor if resistance is out of specification
5 Replace main PCB if all components test within spec

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 reads the NTC thermistor resistance to calculate wash water temperature. If the resistance value falls outside the valid operating range — typically 1k–100k ohms depending on temperature — the board posts tE and disables the heating element relay to prevent runaway heating.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No immediate safety risk. The machine may continue washing in cold water on some programs. Fix within a week.

Technician's Pro Tip

The NTC thermistor is usually clipped to the heating element at the bottom of the drum. Before replacing it, check that the connector is firmly seated — vibration can cause it to back out partially, creating an intermittent open circuit that reads as a sensor failure.

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 Washing Machine?

Code tE on a Samsung Washing Machine indicates "Water Temperature Sensor Error." In practice, the most common trigger is faulty NTC water temperature sensor. Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $15 to $250.

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 NTC sensor resistance at room temperature (should read approximately 10k–50k ohms). 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 washing machine with code tE showing?

No immediate safety risk. The machine may continue washing in cold water on some programs. Fix within a week.

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

Repair costs for code tE typically range from $15 to $250. NTC thermistor: $15–$40; Heating element: $50–$150; PCB: $80–$250. 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 – $250

NTC thermistor: $15–$40; Heating element: $50–$150; PCB: $80–$250