Samsung Washer tE / tE1 / tE3 — Temperature sensor (thermistor) error
Samsung Washer · Error code tE
What tE Means
The water temperature thermistor is reporting an open, shorted, or out-of-range value. Cycle stops because the control can't trust the temperature reading.
Most Likely Fix
Temperature sensor error (thermistor)
Tools: screwdriver, multimeter, nut driver
Diagnose first: Thermistor typically reads ~12k ohms at room temp. Disconnect and test before replacing.
Find this part on Amazon →If the primary fix doesn't resolve it:
Symptoms
- tE appears soon after fill
- Heater never engages
- Water feels wrong temperature
Common Causes
Most common — sensor reads open or short.
Connector at the heater/tub vibrated off.
Less common — PCB ADC input failed.
How to Fix It
- Unplug the washer.
- Access the heater housing (rear panel on most front-loaders).
- Unplug the thermistor and measure resistance — should be ~10k ohms at room temp.
- Reseat the harness if resistance is correct.
- Replace the thermistor (often integrated with the heating element) if open/shorted.
- Power on and run a Rinse+Spin to verify.
Parts You May Need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
More Samsung Washer Codes
Verified against manufacturer documentation: samsung.com
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.