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Samsung Dryer Error Code tE

DIY checks firstReviewed November 2026Checked against manufacturer documentation
What this code means
tE: Temperature sensor error: the thermistor reading is out of range

The sensor that monitors the dryer's air temperature is sending an impossible reading, so the machine stops. A clogged lint screen or a restricted vent is behind it surprisingly often, so clean the airflow path first; a code that returns with clear airflow usually means the thermistor itself has failed.

Also shown as: tS, tO, t0, t5, tE3, tC

Fix level
DIY checks first
Start with the checks on this page. Testing or replacing a part is usually a technician job.
Time to run the checks
About 20–40 minutes
For the 4 checks on this page — not a full repair.
You may need
Soft brush
Named in the checks below.
Parts that may be involved
Thermistor, Wire harness (+1 more below)
Parts are model-specific; see the note below before ordering.

Common causes

  1. Lint screen clogged with lint or fabric-softener residue
  2. Exhaust vent system clogged or restricted
  3. Thermistor has failed, either shorted or open
  4. Loose or damaged wiring between the thermistor and the control board
  5. Main control board fault

What to check, in order

Safety first. Switch the appliance off and unplug it before checking anything inside it. If you are not comfortable with any step, stop and call a technician.
  1. Clean the lint screen, and wash it with water and a soft brush if a film has built up on the mesh.
  2. Check the vent hose and the outside vent hood for lint build-up or a crushed hose, and clean out the vent run.
  3. Unplug the dryer for a few minutes, then plug it back in and run a cycle to see whether the code clears.
  4. If airflow is clear and the code returns, book a technician to test the thermistor and its wiring; the sensor itself should read about 10,000 ohms at room temperature.

Clear the code and test

  1. Fix what the checks above found first. Clearing the code without fixing the cause only brings it back.
  2. Plug the appliance back in and restore its water supply if it has one.
  3. Run the shortest programme and watch the point where the code appeared before.
  4. If the programme finishes with no code, the fault is cleared. If the code returns, write it down before calling a technician — it speeds up the diagnosis.

When to call a professional

Most cases are solved by the checks above. Book a technician if any of these apply:

  • The code comes back after you have run the checks and a test cycle.
  • You smell burning, see sparks or scorch marks, or the breaker trips.
  • Water is leaking and you cannot stop it at the tap.
  • The fix needs panels opened beyond what your manual describes, or a part tested with a meter, and you are not set up for that.

When you call, give the brand, the code tE, your model number (on a label inside the door or on the back) and the checks you already ran. It shortens the visit.

Parts that may be involved

ThermistorWire harnessMain control board

Parts are model-specific. Find your model number first — usually on a label inside the door, on the door frame or on the back — and match the part to that number before ordering.

Questions people ask about tE

What does tE mean on a Samsung dryer?

tE means: Temperature sensor error: the thermistor reading is out of range. The sensor that monitors the dryer's air temperature is sending an impossible reading, so the machine stops. A clogged lint screen or a restricted vent is behind it surprisingly often, so clean the airflow path first; a code that returns with clear airflow usually means the thermistor itself has failed.

Can I fix Samsung tE myself?

Start yourself: the checks on this page cover the causes you can reach without opening the machine up. If they point to a faulty part, testing or replacing it is usually a technician job.

How do I clear Samsung tE?

Fix the cause first — clearing the code on its own brings it straight back. Then restore power and water, run the shortest programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared. If the programme finishes with no code, it is cleared.

Sources checked

The meaning and checks for this code were checked against the sources above in November 2026. Codes vary by model and region; if your manual lists a different meaning for your exact model, follow the manual.

Other Samsung dryer codes

Samsung 3CMotor error: the drum motor is not running properlySamsung 9C1Voltage error: the power supply voltage to the dryer is abnormalSamsung ACCommunication error: the dryer's control boards cannot talk to each otherSamsung AC7Electronic control errorSamsung ClgVent Blockage test result: the exhaust vent is clogged (C80 means about 80% blocked, C90 over 90%)Samsung CtAmbient temperature error: the dryer is below freezing or above 104°F (40°C)Samsung FEPower frequency error: the supply frequency is out of rangeSamsung HCHeating error: the dryer is overheating, or the heater temperature is invalidSamsung HC2Gas ignition error (gas dryers only): the burner failed to igniteSamsung bE2Button error: a control panel button is stuck or held downSamsung dCDoor error: the dryer thinks the door is open or not latchedSamsung dFDoor switch circuit error: the door signal is invalid or intermittentSamsung oDDry time error: drying is taking excessively longSamsung tC5Temperature sensor error on newer models (compressor temperature sensor on heat-pump models)