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Samsung Washer Error Code HC
The water-heating system is not working correctly.
Also shown as: HE, HE1, Hr, 1 HC Last verified: 2026-10-30
Most likely causes, in order
| Cause | How common |
|---|---|
| A failed heating element that no longer heats water | Most common on models with an internal heater |
| A faulty water-temperature sensor giving wrong readings | Common |
| Hot and cold hoses swapped, confusing the temperature check | Less common — see the 4C2 page |
| A control-board fault | Least common — service job |
What to try, easiest first
- First confirm the hoses are not swapped (hot to hot, cold to cold) — a swap can look like a heater fault.
- Restart the washer and try a warm cycle. If the water stays cold and the code returns, stop there.
- Do not open the heater housing yourself unless you are comfortable with appliance repair and the machine is unplugged — heater and wiring checks are service work for most owners.
Reset procedure
Soft reset (first try): press Power to switch the washer off, wait about 2–3 minutes, switch it back on and restart the cycle. If the code was a one-off sensor glitch, it often clears here.
Hard reset: switch the washer off, unplug it from the wall outlet (or switch its breaker off) for 2–3 minutes, plug it back in and restart. Never open a panel or touch wiring while it is plugged in.
When to call a technician
Call a technician if the code returns after the hose check, the water never warms, or the washer trips a breaker. Heater circuits carry mains voltage.
Difficulty, time and cost
| Difficulty | Service job for most owners |
|---|---|
| Typical DIY time | 10 minutes for the hose check; repair time varies (editorial estimate, not a quoted time) |
| Part / job cost | $65–$100 for a professional diagnostic visit. Diagnostic range from the Albany repair price survey; heater part price is model-specific — get a quote with your model number. Prices vary by model and area — treat every figure as an estimate, not a quote. |
Model notes and limits
HC is the current heater display; older models show HE, HE1 or Hr for the same fault. Only models with an internal heater have a true heater fault — other models showing this code need a sensor or board check.
Front-load and top-load models, AddWash/FlexWash models, and US versus UK displays can show the same fault differently. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number (on the label inside the door or lid, or on the back of the washer) before ordering a part.
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Do all Samsung washers heat their own water?
No. Only models with an internal heater do. If your model heats from the home hot supply only, a heater code is more likely a sensor or board issue — check your manual.
Can I just wash everything cold to avoid this code?
Cold-only washing avoids the heater, but the fault check can still trip on cycles that call for heat. Fix the cause rather than working around it.
Is a heater fault dangerous?
It can be if water overheats or wiring is damaged. If the washer feels unusually hot, smells of burning, or trips a breaker, switch it off and unplug it.
Sources
- Samsung WA50M7450AW user manual — Troubleshooting codes (via ManualsLib) — https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2698765/Samsung-Wa50m7450aw-A4.html?page=36 (checked 2026-10-30)
- Solo Appliance Repair — Samsung washer error code list — https://soloappliancerepair.com/comprehensive-guide-to-samsung-washing-machine-error-codes/ (checked 2026-10-30)
- FixCodeGuides — Samsung washer error codes — https://fixcodeguides.com/samsung-washer-error-codes (checked 2026-10-30)