# How to Fix Samsung Error Et (EEPROM Error)
The “Et” error code on Samsung washing machines (particularly combo washer/dryer units) is one of the most serious errors you may encounter, as it indicates a critical memory failure.
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## What Does Error “Et” Mean? (The Explanation)
The “Et” code stands for an **EEPROM Error**.
**EEPROM** stands for **E**lectrically **E**rasable **P**rogrammable **R**ead-**O**nly **M**emory. Think of the EEPROM chip as the washing machine’s brain or its permanent memory bank. This chip stores all of the machine’s essential data, settings, calibration values, and cycle information.
When the “Et” error appears, it means the main control board (PCB) cannot properly read or write data to this memory chip, indicating one of two things:
1. **Data Corruption:** The memory itself has been corrupted.
2. **Hardware Failure:** The chip or the board it resides on has failed.
**Crucially, in Samsung combo washer/dryer units, the EEPROM error (Et) is most frequently traced to a failure on the specific circuit board that controls the drying functions, known as the Dryer Control Board.**
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## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing the EEPROM Failure
Because the “Et” error points to a hardware failure, troubleshooting is usually limited to attempting a power reset and verifying connections before committing to a replacement part.
### Step 1: Perform a Hard Reset (Power Cycle)
The first step for any electronic error is always to completely drain the unit of residual power. This can sometimes clear temporary glitches or power surges that corrupted the data temporarily.
1. **Unplug the Machine:** Locate the power cord and unplug the machine completely from the wall socket. Do not simply turn it off using the power button.
2. **Wait 5 Minutes:** Leave the machine unplugged for at least five minutes to allow any internal charge to dissipate completely.
3. **Plug Back In:** Plug the machine directly into the wall outlet (avoid extension cords for testing).
4. **Test:** Turn the machine back on and try running a short cycle. If the “Et” code immediately reappears, proceed to Step 2.
### Step 2: Inspect Connections to the Control Board
The error sometimes occurs if a critical wire harness connecting the main control board (which runs the washing side) to the dryer board (which controls the dryer side) has come loose or corroded.
**⚠️ SAFETY WARNING:** Always unplug the machine before removing the top panel or accessing internal components.
1. **Access the Top Panel:** Remove the screws securing the top panel (usually two or three screws along the back edge). Slide the panel backward and lift it off.
2. **Locate the Boards:** You will see the main control boards near the top front of the machine.
3. **Check Wire Harnesses:** Carefully inspect all the ribbon cables and wire harnesses that connect the control boards. Unplug and reseat them firmly to ensure a solid connection.
4. **Test:** Replace the top panel, plug the machine back in, and test.
### Step 3: Determine the Need for Board Replacement
If the error persists after performing a hard reset and verifying all wire connections, the memory on the control board has failed permanently. This requires replacing the faulty circuit board.
**The Likely Culprit is the Dryer Control Board.**
For combo units, the Dryer Control Board (sometimes called the Sub-PCB) holds the EEPROM necessary for operation. While it is possible the main control board has failed, replacing the Dryer Control Board is typically the less expensive and more common fix for the “Et” error.
* You will need to identify your exact Samsung model number (found on a sticker inside the washer door frame) to ensure you order the correct replacement part.
* Once the new board is installed, the machine may require a **calibration cycle** to fully initialize the new memory chip. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to start the calibration sequence.
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## Replacement Part Information
If you have isolated the error and determined that the hardware must be replaced:
Check the price for a replacement Dryer Control Board here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Samsung+Dryer Control Board&tag=trivian-20
Need a Replacement Part?
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