F1
Samsung Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The F1 error means your Samsung washer is having trouble reading the water temperature. A sensor inside the drum measures how hot or cold the water is during a cycle. When that sensor gives an unexpected reading — or no reading at all — the machine stops and shows F1. Your laundry is safe, but the cycle cannot continue until the sensor issue is resolved.
Affected Models
- WF45R6100AW
- WF50R8500AV
- WF42H5000AW
- WF45T6000AW
- Most Samsung front-load and top-load washers
Common Causes
- A faulty or failing water temperature sensor (thermistor) giving incorrect readings
- Wiring harness to the temperature sensor has come loose or has a broken connection
- Water temperature is genuinely extreme — well below freezing or above safe limits
- Control board fault causing it to misread the sensor signal
- Corroded sensor contacts from long-term moisture exposure inside the machine
How to Fix It
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Unplug the washer from the wall and wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in.
A power reset clears temporary sensor glitches. This fixes F1 about 20% of the time.
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Check where the washer is located. If it's in an unheated garage or basement, the water supply may be close to freezing.
Samsung washers need the water supply and ambient temperature to be above 40°F (4°C) to operate correctly.
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Run a short, cold-water cycle (delicate or rinse-and-spin). Watch whether the error appears again immediately or only when the machine tries to heat the water.
If it only fails on hot-water cycles, the heater circuit or sensor wiring is likely the issue.
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Check the wiring harness at the back of the drum. Look for any connectors that have pulled loose, especially near the heating element area.
A disconnected wire connector is a common and easy fix — no parts needed.
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If the error persists through all the above steps, the temperature sensor (thermistor) needs to be tested and likely replaced by a technician.
The thermistor is a small sensor that changes electrical resistance with temperature. A tech can test it with a multimeter in minutes.
When to Call a Professional
If unplugging the washer and checking for extreme temperatures doesn't clear F1, the thermistor likely needs replacing. This is an inexpensive part ($15–$40) but requires accessing the drum area. A technician can diagnose and replace it in one visit for $100–$200 total.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the F1 error the same as the TE error on Samsung washers?
They are very closely related. Both point to a temperature sensor problem. On older Samsung models the code shows as F1. On newer models with updated displays it typically shows as TE. The diagnosis and fix process are identical for both.
Can I still use the washer when F1 is showing?
You can try running a cold-water cycle only, which does not rely on the temperature sensor for heating. However, the washer may still stop mid-cycle if the sensor gives a bad reading even on cold cycles. It is best to fix the issue before relying on the machine for regular loads.
How much does a Samsung washer temperature sensor cost?
The thermistor itself is inexpensive — usually $15 to $40 depending on your model. The bigger cost is the labor to access and replace it. Total repair cost at a service center typically runs $100 to $200. If your washer is still under Samsung's one-year warranty, the repair should be covered at no charge.