Live Guide
Samsung · Washing Machine

UB

Unbalanced Load

Severity
Low

Your Samsung Washing Machine stopped working and is showing error UB, which corresponds to a fault called "Unbalanced Load". 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 washer detected that the clothes are piled up on one side, making it shake too much to spin safely. Simply open the door, spread the laundry evenly, and restart the spin cycle.

Symptoms

Washer vibrating violently, not spinning to full speed, UB or Ub on display

Common Causes

  • Laundry tangled or bunched to one side
  • Single heavy item like a comforter or jeans
  • Machine not level on the floor
  • Worn shock absorbers or suspension springs

How to Fix

  1. 1 Open door, redistribute laundry evenly in the drum
  2. 2 Remove very heavy single items and wash separately
  3. 3 Use a level tool on top of machine and adjust leveling legs
  4. 4 Inspect and replace shock absorbers if machine shakes excessively even with balanced loads

Tools You'll Need

Bubble Level Flashlight

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

Technical Explanation

The PCB monitors drum RPM deviation via the hall sensor on the motor. If rotational speed variance exceeds the programmed threshold during spin ramp-up, the board reduces RPM and triggers the UB error to prevent structural stress.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No damage if you stop the cycle — continuing to run an unbalanced load long-term will wear out the shock absorbers and bearings prematurely.

Technician's Pro Tip

If UB happens consistently with every load, check the leveling legs first — an unlevel machine amplifies even small imbalances. Takes 5 minutes to fix with a wrench.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code UB mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?
Code UB on a Samsung Washing Machine indicates "Unbalanced Load." In practice, the most common trigger is laundry tangled or bunched to one side. Severity is rated low, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $150.
Can I fix UB myself, or do I need a technician?
Many cases of UB can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: open door, redistribute laundry evenly in the drum. 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 UB showing?
No damage if you stop the cycle — continuing to run an unbalanced load long-term will wear out the shock absorbers and bearings prematurely.
How much does it cost to repair UB on a Samsung Washing Machine?
Repair costs for code UB typically range from $0 to $150. Redistribute load: $0; Shock absorbers: $30–$150 + labor. 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
$0 $150

Redistribute load: $0; Shock absorbers: $30–$150 + labor