Samsung Dishwasher Error Code FE2 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The FE2 error on a Samsung dishwasher means the machine has detected water overfilling inside the tub or the base pan beneath the machine. The dishwasher uses a flood sensor (also called a leak sensor) in the base pan to catch water that has escaped the tub. When that sensor gets wet, FE2 triggers and the machine stops to prevent a flood in your kitchen. This is a serious error — do not ignore it. There is likely water sitting under or inside the machine that needs to be addressed immediately.

Affected Models

Samsung DW80R9950UG
Samsung DW80T5430US
Samsung DW80CG5451SR
Samsung DW80K5050US
Samsung DW80R5061US

Common Causes

A leaking door seal or door latch allowing water to drip out of the tub into the base pan
A cracked or split internal hose that is leaking water into the base pan during cycles
The water inlet valve is stuck open, allowing too much water into the tub and causing overflow
The flood sensor in the base pan is faulty or stuck in the triggered position even without actual water present
Excessive detergent or wrong detergent type causing suds buildup that overflows the tub and triggers the sensor

How to Fix It

Stop using the dishwasher immediately. Turn it off and open the door carefully. Do not attempt to run another cycle. Check the floor under and around the dishwasher for any visible water. If you see water, place towels down and use a fan to begin drying the area.

Even small amounts of water sitting under a dishwasher can cause wood floor swelling or cabinet damage within hours. Address it promptly.
Check if you used the correct detergent. Only dishwasher-specific detergent should ever be used — never dish soap, laundry detergent, or hand soap. These produce massive suds that overflow the tub easily. If wrong detergent was used, run an empty rinse cycle (with the error cleared) and then wipe out any remaining suds by hand.

Even a small squirt of dish soap accidentally put in the detergent compartment is enough to trigger an overflow. This is more common than people think.
Tilt the dishwasher carefully forward to drain the base pan. Lay old towels on the floor in front of the machine. Slide the machine halfway out from the cabinet and tilt it forward to about 45 degrees. This drains water from the base pan. Once drained, dry the sensor area with a cloth or use a hair dryer on low heat.

You may need a helper to safely tilt and hold the machine. Disconnect power first before tilting.
Inspect the door seal (gasket) around the entire inside door frame. Run your finger along it feeling for cracks, tears, or sections that have pulled away from the groove. A damaged door seal allows water to drip out during cycles and collect in the base pan. Replace the seal if any damage is found.

Door seals are inexpensive — usually $15-$40 for the part. They can be replaced without a technician in most cases.
After drying the base pan and fixing any obvious cause, reconnect power and reset the error by pressing and holding Start/Cancel for 3 seconds. Run a short cycle while watching for any new leaks from the door edges or beneath the machine. If FE2 returns without an obvious cause, call a Samsung-authorized technician to inspect internal hoses and the inlet valve.

Never run the dishwasher unattended until you have confirmed the source of the leak is fully fixed.

When to Call a Professional

FE2 is a critical error that can lead to water damage if ignored. If you find actual water under the machine, stop using it immediately and call a technician. A leaking inlet valve costs $60-$150 to replace including labor. A damaged internal hose costs $80-$200. Water damage to your kitchen floor or cabinets will cost far more — act quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use the dishwasher after getting FE2?

No — not until you find and fix the cause of the leak. Running the dishwasher again will push more water into the base pan and potentially onto your floor. Water damage to kitchen floors and cabinets is expensive. Take the time to dry the base pan and identify the leak source before running another cycle.

What is the base pan and where is the flood sensor?

The base pan is the shallow metal or plastic tray that forms the bottom of the dishwasher cabinet. All the internal components sit on top of it. The flood sensor (or anti-flood float switch) sits in the base pan and triggers when water accumulates there. Think of it like a bilge alarm on a boat — it tells you water has gotten somewhere it should not be.

Could FE2 be a false alarm from a stuck sensor?

Yes, occasionally. If the flood sensor itself is faulty or got stuck in the triggered position, it can show FE2 even with no actual water present. However, always check for real water first before assuming it is a false alarm. A sensor stuck without water is rare — actual leakage is far more common.