Samsung Washer 4C Error Code: What It Means and How to Fix It

Last updated: October 5, 2026 · Codes covered: 4C, 4E, nF, 1 4C · Sources

A 4C code on a Samsung washer means it isn't getting enough water to fill. Usually it's something you can fix in minutes: a tap that isn't fully open, a kinked hose, or clogged filter screens where the hoses connect. If those checks don't clear it, the problem is probably inside the washer and needs a repair.

Depending on your model, it may show as 4E, nF, or 1 4C instead. The fix is the same.

What the 4C code means

Samsung calls 4C a "not filling" error: water isn't getting into the washer the way it should. Samsung's US support page treats 4C, 4E, nF, and 1 4C as the same error, and Samsung UK uses "4E (4C)". Which one you see depends on your model, so check your user manual.

4C2 is a different code. Samsung lists 4C2, 4E2, nF1, CE, and 14C2 as a hot/cold error. The cold supply is coming in very hot, almost always because the hoses are swapped. Connect cold to cold and hot to hot (usually blue to blue, red to red). Samsung says this doesn't need service.

On some models, the washer drains for about 3 minutes after 4C appears, and the Power button won't respond. That's normal.

Likely causes (most common first)

1. Water taps not fully open.
2. Kinked, bent, or clogged supply hoses. Samsung UK says a blocked or kinked supply hose is the most common cause.
3. Clogged mesh filter screens. Screens where the hoses connect catch sediment, especially with well water, hard water, or old pipes. Samsung's manuals say a clogged screen will trigger 4C.
4. Hot water line not connected or hoses swapped. If the hot hose isn't connected, you'll get an error when the washer tries to use hot water. That can happen even on cycles labeled Cold.
5. Low water pressure. Samsung's US manuals call for 20 to 116 psi. Below that, it may not fill in time.
6. Frozen taps or hoses, for example in an unheated garage or basement.
7. Drain hose set up wrong. If the drain hose is pushed too far into the drain pipe or kinked, water can siphon out while the washer fills, which can cause 4C.
8. Inlet valve, wiring, or control problem. If the supply is fine, the inlet valve, its wiring, or the control board may be at fault.

How to fix it, step by step

Do these in order. Try running a cycle again after each step.

1. Reset the washer. Unplug it or switch off its breaker for 1 minute, then restore power and start a cycle.
2. Open both taps all the way. Leave them fully open while the washer runs.
3. Check for frozen lines. If the washer is in a cold space, make sure the taps and hoses aren't frozen.
4. Straighten the supply hoses. Pull the washer out gently and look for kinks or damage, especially if you just moved it.
5. Check the hose connections. Hot goes to the hot inlet (H or red) and cold goes to the cold inlet (C or blue). Connect both, and don't use "Flood Safe" style hoses, which Samsung advises against.
6. Test water flow from the hoses. Turn off the taps, disconnect the hoses, point each into a bucket, and turn the tap on. If only a trickle comes out, the problem is your plumbing or the hose, not the washer.
7. Clean the mesh filter screens.
   • Unplug the washer and close both taps.
   • Disconnect the supply hoses, with a towel ready to catch water.
   • Use pliers to gently pull the mesh filter out of each inlet.
   • Rinse the filters in water until they're clear.
   • Let them dry, put them back, reconnect the hoses, open the taps fully, and check for leaks.
8. Check water pressure. If other faucets in the house are also weak, or you're on a well, have your water pressure checked. Samsung's US manuals specify 20 to 116 psi.
9. Check the drain hose. Make sure it isn't kinked and isn't pushed too far into the drain pipe. How far it should go depends on your model:
   • Models with a digital display: no less than 6 inches and no more than 8 inches into the drain pipe.
   • Models without a display (they show errors as blinking lights): no more than 6 inches into the drain pipe.
   • Not sure? Check your manual's installation section.
   • Don't remove the screw and holder that keep the drain hose against the back of the washer. If the holder is missing, Samsung says the washer needs service.
10. Clean the detergent drawer (front loaders). Samsung UK notes that a blocked dispenser drawer can sometimes cause 4C. Pull the drawer out, clear anything stuck in it, and put it back.
11. Suspect the inlet valve. If water flows well, the screens are clean, and 4C keeps coming back, the inlet valve (or its wiring or the control board) is the likely cause. See "Test the part" below, or call a pro if you'd rather not take panels off.

Test the part

If the water supply checks out, the likeliest failed part is the water inlet valve, where the hoses connect at the back. It has a small coil (solenoid) for each water line. Here's a basic, unplugged check.

1. Unplug the washer and shut off both taps. Pull the plug or switch off the breaker.
2. Check the screens and hoses. Disconnect both hoses (towels down). The inlet screens should be clean and undamaged. Look inside each hose end for debris, make sure the rubber washer is there, and replace any hose that's bulging, cracked, or kinked.
3. Reach the valve's wires. On most models that means removing the top or back panel. This varies by model, so check your manual, and watch for sharp edges.
4. Photograph the wires, then pull each connector off by its housing, not the wire.
5. Check each coil. Set your multimeter to the lowest ohms setting and touch a probe to each terminal of one coil. Some resistance means it has continuity. Infinity or "OL" (open circuit) means the coil has failed and the valve needs replacing. Repeat for each coil.
6. Don't chase an exact number. The right reading varies by model. Compare against your model's tech sheet if it lists a value. A coil that reads very differently from the others is also suspect.

A valve can pass this test and still be stuck inside. If the coils show continuity and 4C keeps coming back, stop and call a pro. Next come live voltage and control board checks, which aren't DIY jobs.

Safety notes

When to call a pro

Call Samsung support or a qualified appliance technician if:

• 4C keeps coming back after you've done every step above.
• Water flows strongly from both hoses but the washer still won't fill.
• You see damaged wiring, a leaking inlet valve, or water inside the cabinet.
• The drain hose holder on the back of the washer is missing.
• Your washer is still under warranty. Check your warranty terms before opening it up.

Samsung US support is available at samsung.com/us/support/service or 1-800-SAMSUNG (1-800-726-7864).

FAQ

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