tO
Samsung Dryer
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The tO error means the temperature sensor in your Samsung dryer has an open circuit. The circuit connecting the sensor to the control board has been broken. The dryer cannot measure drum temperature, so it stops for safety.
Affected Models
- DV42H5200EW
- DV45H7000EW
- DV50K8600EV
- Most Samsung electric and gas dryers
Common Causes
- The thermistor wire has broken or become disconnected
- The thermistor connector has corroded and lost contact
- The thermistor itself has internally failed — its resistance is now infinite
- Heat damage has melted or brittle-cracked the sensor wiring
- A control board fault is incorrectly reading an open circuit
How to Fix It
-
Unplug the dryer from the wall and wait 5 minutes.
A reset is worth trying first, even though tO usually means a physical break in the circuit.
-
Restart and run a short cycle to see if tO clears.
If it doesn't clear within a few minutes, the fault is real — not a glitch.
-
Clean the lint filter and check the exhaust duct.
Overheating from blocked airflow can cause sensor wiring to fail. Fix airflow issues before replacing the sensor.
-
Call a technician to inspect the thermistor wiring and connector.
They will use a multimeter to measure resistance. An open circuit reading confirms the thermistor must be replaced.
-
After replacement, run a full test cycle to confirm tO has cleared.
If tO returns after a new thermistor is installed, the control board may be the issue.
When to Call a Professional
tO is a clear component failure that requires replacement. The thermistor part is inexpensive — $10–$30. Labor to access and replace it typically costs $80–$150. Do not attempt to splice or tape broken sensor wires — replace the part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between tO and tE on Samsung dryers?
tO means an open circuit — the thermistor wire is broken or disconnected. tE means a general thermistor fault, which could be open or shorted. tO is more specific and almost always requires a physical part replacement.
Can I still use my dryer with a tO error?
No. Without temperature sensing, the dryer can't control heat safely. This creates a risk of overheating and potential fire. Do not run the dryer until the sensor is replaced.
Where is the thermistor located in a Samsung dryer?
It's typically mounted on the exhaust duct or near the heating element housing. You access it by removing the back panel of the dryer. On some models it's at the front, behind the lower kick panel.