Samsung Dishwasher FE Error Code: What It Means & How to Fix It

Error Code Explained

What Does the Samsung FE Error Code Mean?

Root Causes

Common Causes of the Samsung FE Error Code

• 1
  Failed Inlet Valve (Stuck Open)

  The water inlet solenoid valve has failed with its plunger stuck in the open position, allowing water to flow into the tub continuously even after the target fill level is reached. This is the most common cause of FE.
• 2
  Failed Water Level Sensor

  The pressure-based water level sensor has failed in a way that incorrectly reports the tub is continuously filling past the maximum, triggering FE even when the actual water level is normal.
• 3
  Blocked Water Level Sensor Hose

  The small hose leading from the tub sump to the water level pressure sensor is clogged, causing an inaccurate overfill reading.
• 4
  Control Board Inlet Valve Relay Fault

  The relay on the main control board that controls the inlet valve has failed in the closed position, keeping the valve energized (open) indefinitely.

Step-by-Step Guide

How to Troubleshoot the FE Error Code

1. 1
   Turn off the water supply immediately

   When FE appears, turn off the water supply valve under the kitchen sink (the dishwasher's supply valve). This stops water from entering the dishwasher regardless of the valve state. Do not restart the dishwasher until the valve is inspected.
2. 2
   Listen for water entering after cycle stops

   After FE halts the cycle, listen at the dishwasher for any sound of water running. If you hear water still entering with the cycle stopped, the inlet valve is confirmed stuck open and must be replaced before using the dishwasher again.
3. 3
   Check the water level sensor hose

   After draining the dishwasher, inspect the small rubber hose from the sump to the water level sensor. Clear any blockage and retest.

Professional Service

When to Call a Samsung Technician

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions — Samsung FE

• Is Samsung dishwasher FE dangerous?
  Yes — if the inlet valve is stuck open and the drain pump cannot keep up with the inflow, water will overflow onto the kitchen floor. Turn off the water supply valve under the sink immediately when FE appears and do not reopen it until the inlet valve has been inspected and repaired.
• What is the difference between Samsung dishwasher FE and 4C?
  4C means insufficient water is getting into the dishwasher — the supply is too slow or the valve is failing to open. FE means too much water is getting in — the valve is not closing when it should. They are opposite faults involving the same component (the inlet valve).
• Can I reset Samsung dishwasher FE?
  FE will clear after the dishwasher drains the excess water and you perform a power reset. However, if the inlet valve is stuck open, FE will return immediately on the next fill attempt. The only permanent fix is inlet valve replacement.