# How to Fix Samsung Error tE (Temperature Sensor Error)
The “tE” error code on your Samsung washing machine is one of the more common fault codes related to heating performance. While it might seem intimidating, it usually points to one specific, relatively inexpensive component failure.
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## 1. Explanation: What Does the “tE” Error Mean?
The “tE” error stands for **Temperature Error** or **Thermistor Error**.
**In plain English:** The main control board (PCB) is not receiving the expected resistance reading from the component responsible for measuring the water temperature—the **thermistor**.
The thermistor is a sensor placed either directly near the heating element or integrated into the element itself. Its job is crucial: it tells the machine how hot the water is so the machine can properly manage the heating cycle and prevent overheating.
When the sensor fails, the machine cannot safely proceed with a cycle that requires heating (like Warm or Hot washes) and will display the “tE” error, often stopping the cycle immediately.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose and Replace the Thermistor
The good news is that 90% of the time, the fix is replacing the thermistor itself. Follow these steps to diagnose and resolve the issue.
### Step 1: Safety First (Unplug the Unit)
**Crucial:** Before performing any inspections or repairs, always unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet and turn off the water supply taps.
### Step 2: Access the Thermistor
The thermistor is located at the back of the washer, usually attached to the bottom of the wash drum, right next to (or embedded in) the heating element.
1. **Remove the Back Panel:** Use a screwdriver or nut driver to remove the screws securing the rear access panel of the washer.
2. **Locate the Components:** You will see the large wash drum. The heating element and thermistor assembly will be visible near the bottom of the drum.
### Step 3: Test the Thermistor (Diagnosis)
A functioning thermistor changes its electrical resistance based on temperature. If it’s faulty, it will show either an open circuit (infinite resistance) or zero resistance.
1. **Disconnect the Thermistor Wires:** Gently pull the electrical connector plug off the thermistor or the heating element housing.
2. **Set Your Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the Ohms (Ω) resistance setting, usually 20k or 100k.
3. **Take a Reading:** Place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the thermistor (or the thermistor connection on the heating element).
4. **Compare Resistance:** At room temperature (around 70°F / 21°C), a healthy Samsung thermistor should typically read between **8,000 and 15,000 Ohms (8kΩ to 15kΩ)**.
#### Diagnosis Results:
* **Reading is within range (8kΩ – 15kΩ):** The thermistor is likely fine. The issue might be the wiring harness or the main control board (PCB). Proceed to Step 4 to double-check the connection.
* **Reading is 0 (zero) or “OL” (Open Loop/Infinite Resistance):** The thermistor is defective and needs replacement. This is the most common outcome.
### Step 4: Check Wiring and Connections
If your thermistor tested fine, ensure the connections are secure:
* **Inspect the Wire Harness:** Visually check the wires running from the thermistor assembly back to the control board for any signs of pinching, cuts, or corrosion. Pests (mice/rats) sometimes chew through these wires.
* **Reseat the Connector:** Firmly reconnect the wire harness to the thermistor assembly.
### Step 5: Replace the Faulty Thermistor
If you confirmed the thermistor is faulty (Step 3):
1. **Remove the Old Sensor:** The thermistor is usually held in place by a small metal clip or a plastic housing. Carefully unclip the old sensor and slide it out. (If it’s integrated into the heater, you may need to replace the heater assembly, though often it’s a separate component.)
2. **Install the New Sensor:** Slide the replacement thermistor into the same position and secure it with the clip or housing. Ensure it is fully seated and making good contact with the water/drum.
3. **Reconnect Wires:** Reconnect the wiring harness plug firmly.
### Step 6: Test the Machine
1. **Reassemble:** Screw the back panel back onto the washing machine.
2. **Plug In and Test:** Plug the unit back into the wall outlet and turn the water supply back on.
3. **Run a Hot Cycle:** Run a short cycle requiring warm or hot water. If the “tE” error is gone and the machine completes the cycle, the repair was successful.
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## **Call to Action**
Check the price for a replacement Thermistor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Samsung+Thermistor&tag=trivian-20