What Does Error Code FE Mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?
Turn the machine off at the power socket, turn off the water supply tap behind the machine, wait 5 minutes, then turn both back on and restart the cycle — this resets the control board and releases any stuck valve solenoid, and the error should clear within a few minutes (takes about 5 minutes).
Fault description
The FE error code tells you that your Samsung washing machine has detected more water in the drum than it should hold at any point in the cycle. The machine's pressure sensor or water level sensor has signalled to the control board that water is still rising when it should have stopped, triggering the fault and halting the programme as a safety measure.
When this error appears, the machine will typically pause mid-cycle, display FE on the control panel, and may attempt to drain the excess water automatically. In some cases you may notice water continuing to trickle into the drum even with the machine switched off, which points directly to a valve that is not closing properly.
This fault affects the water inlet system and the components that regulate how much water enters the machine. It is worth acting on this error promptly, as persistent overfilling can lead to leaks, drum imbalance, and in rare cases water damage to the surrounding area.
Causes
- Faulty water inlet valve — The inlet valve controls the flow of water into the machine using an electrically operated solenoid. If the solenoid fails or the valve body becomes worn, it can stick in the open position and allow water to keep entering the drum even when the control board has sent a signal to stop.
- Defective pressure sensor or water level sensor — The pressure sensor monitors the water level inside the drum and tells the control board when to stop filling. If this sensor is faulty or its connecting hose is blocked or kinked, it may send an incorrect reading, causing the machine to think the drum is overfilling when it is not, or failing to detect the correct level.
- Blocked or kinked pressure sensor hose — A small rubber hose connects the pressure sensor to the drum. If this hose becomes blocked with detergent residue or is pinched during installation or a previous repair, the sensor cannot read the water level accurately, which can trigger a false FE error.
- Control board fault — The main control board sends the signal to open and close the inlet valve. If the board develops a fault — due to a power surge, moisture ingress, or component failure — it may fail to send the correct stop signal to the valve, resulting in continuous filling.
- Low mains water pressure fluctuation — Sudden changes in household water pressure can occasionally confuse the pressure sensor and trigger a temporary FE reading. This is less common but worth considering if the error appears only occasionally and clears on its own.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Switch off and isolate the machine
Turn the washing machine off at the control panel, then switch it off at the wall socket. Reach behind the machine and turn the water supply tap to the closed position. Leave everything off for at least 5 minutes to allow the control board to fully reset and any stuck solenoid to release.
- 2
Restart and test
Turn the water supply back on, plug the machine back in, and run a short cycle such as a rinse or quick wash. Watch the machine during the fill phase to see whether the error returns. If it does not reappear, the fault was likely a temporary valve or sensor glitch.
- 3
Check the water supply hose and inlet filter
Turn off the water supply and disconnect the inlet hose from the back of the machine. Inside the connection point on the machine you will find a small mesh filter. Remove it carefully with pliers, rinse it under a tap to clear any debris, and refit it before reconnecting the hose. A partially blocked filter can cause irregular water flow that confuses the pressure sensor.
- 4
Inspect the pressure sensor hose
With the machine unplugged, remove the top panel (usually held by two screws at the rear). Locate the thin rubber hose running from the side of the drum up to the pressure sensor, which is a small round component typically mounted near the top of the machine. Check the hose for kinks, cracks, or blockages. Blow gently through it to confirm it is clear, and reseat both ends firmly.
- 5
Test the pressure sensor
With the hose disconnected from the pressure sensor, blow gently into the hose end — you should hear a faint click from the sensor as it responds to the air pressure. No click suggests the sensor has failed and needs replacing. Pressure sensors are a relatively inexpensive part and are straightforward to swap on most Samsung models.
- 6
Inspect the water inlet valve
The inlet valve is located at the back of the machine where the water hose connects. With the machine unplugged and water isolated, remove the rear panel and visually inspect the valve for signs of cracking, corrosion, or mineral build-up. If you can see visible damage, or if the machine was still allowing water in with the power off, the valve needs replacing.
- 7
Replace the inlet valve if necessary
Inlet valves for Samsung washing machines are widely available as spare parts. Disconnect the wiring connectors and hose clips, swap the valve, and reassemble in reverse order. If you are not confident working with internal components, this is a good point to contact a service technician rather than risk further damage.
Affected models
Select your model to see its full troubleshooting page.
When to call a service technician
If you have completed all the steps above and the FE error continues to appear, or if you noticed water entering the drum with the machine completely switched off at the wall, the inlet valve has almost certainly failed mechanically and needs professional replacement. A service technician can also test the control board with diagnostic equipment to confirm whether it is sending the correct signals to the valve.
You should also call a technician if you are uncomfortable removing panels or working near electrical components, or if the machine is still under warranty — attempting internal repairs yourself may void the cover. Persistent overfilling that is left unaddressed can cause water damage to your floor and cabinetry, so do not delay if the basic reset does not resolve the fault.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my Samsung washing machine while the FE error is showing?
It is not advisable to continue using the machine until the fault is resolved. An overfill condition means water may spill into areas of the machine not designed to handle it, potentially causing electrical faults or water damage to your floor. Isolate the water supply and power until you have identified the cause.
Why does my Samsung washing machine show FE only sometimes?
An intermittent FE error often points to a water inlet valve that is beginning to fail but has not completely stuck open yet, or a pressure sensor hose that is partially blocked. Fluctuations in your household water pressure can also trigger occasional false readings. It is worth investigating sooner rather than later, as intermittent faults tend to become permanent over time.
How much does it cost to replace a Samsung washing machine inlet valve?
The inlet valve part itself typically costs between £15 and £45 depending on the model. If you are fitting it yourself, that is your only cost. A service technician call-out and labour will add to this, but the total repair is usually well within the range where it makes financial sense to fix rather than replace the machine.
Will the FE error clear itself after draining?
The machine may attempt to drain excess water automatically when the FE error triggers, and the error might clear temporarily after a power reset. However, if the underlying cause — such as a faulty valve or sensor — has not been fixed, the error will return the next time the machine fills with water. A reset alone is not a permanent solution.
Is the FE error the same as the 4E or E1 water supply error on Samsung machines?
No, these are different faults. The 4E or E1 error means the machine is not receiving enough water — the opposite problem. The FE error means too much water is entering the drum. The causes and fixes are different, so it is important to confirm which code is displayed before attempting any repairs.