4CSamsung Washer

How to Fix 4C (Samsung Washer)

Quick Answer

The 4C error code on a Samsung washer indicates a water supply issue. This typically means the washer is not receiving enough water or no water at all. The fastest fix often involves checking the water supply hoses and ensuring the water faucets are fully open.

What Causes This Error

Kinked or blocked water supply hoses
Closed or partially closed water faucets
Clogged inlet filters on the water supply hoses
Low water pressure in the household
Faulty water inlet valve
Drain hose positioned too low or siphoning water out

Step-by-Step Fixes

1Check Water Supply Hoses and Faucets for 4C Error

Locate the two water supply hoses connected to the back of the Samsung washer. One is for hot water, and the other for cold water.
Ensure both hot and cold water faucets behind the washer are fully open. Turn them counter-clockwise until they stop.
Inspect both water supply hoses for any kinks, bends, or obstructions. Straighten any kinks found.
Verify that the hoses are securely connected to both the washer's inlet valves and the household water faucets. Tighten connections if loose.
Run a short wash cycle to see if the 4C error persists. If the error reoccurs, proceed to the next fix.

2Clean Water Inlet Filters

Turn off both the hot and cold water faucets connected to the washer.
Carefully unscrew the water supply hoses from the back of the washer. Have a towel ready to catch any residual water.
Inside the water inlet valves on the washer, locate the small mesh filters (screen filters).
Using needle-nose pliers or tweezers, gently pull out the mesh filters. Be careful not to damage them.
Rinse the filters under running water to remove any sediment or debris. If heavily clogged, use a small brush (like a toothbrush) to clean them thoroughly.
Reinsert the clean filters into the inlet valves, ensuring they are seated correctly. Reconnect the water supply hoses, tighten them, and turn the water faucets back on.
Run a test cycle to check if the 4C error has been resolved.

3Verify Household Water Pressure

Turn on a nearby sink faucet (e.g., in a laundry room sink or bathroom) to full capacity.
Observe the water flow. If the flow is significantly weaker than usual, this may indicate low household water pressure.
Check other faucets in the house to determine if the low pressure is isolated to the washer's location or affects the entire home.
If the entire house has low water pressure, contact your water utility provider or a licensed plumber to investigate the issue. The washer requires adequate water pressure to fill correctly.
If only the washer's supply has low pressure, ensure no other appliances or fixtures are drawing significant water simultaneously, and re-check the supply line for kinks or partial blockages further up the line.

4Inspect Drain Hose for Siphoning

Locate the drain hose connected to the back of the washer and leading to a standpipe or utility sink.
Ensure the drain hose is installed at the correct height. The drain hose should form a U-bend and be secured at a height between 18 and 96 inches (46 to 244 cm) from the floor.
If the drain hose is too low or inserted too far into the drain pipe, it can create a siphoning effect, causing water to drain out as it fills, leading to a 4C error.
Adjust the drain hose height and secure it properly using the provided hose guide or a zip tie to prevent it from slipping down.
Run a wash cycle to confirm that the washer fills without the 4C error reappearing.

Advanced Fixes

Test and Replace Water Inlet Valve

Disconnect the washer from the power outlet and turn off both water supply faucets.
Remove the rear access panel of the washer, typically secured by several screws.
Locate the water inlet valve assembly, where the water supply hoses connect to the washer. There will be solenoids for hot and cold water.
Using a multimeter, test the continuity of each solenoid on the water inlet valve. A healthy solenoid should show a resistance reading (typically 50-150 ohms). No reading or an open circuit indicates a faulty solenoid.
If a solenoid is faulty, the entire water inlet valve assembly usually needs to be replaced. Disconnect the electrical connectors and hose clamps from the valve.
Install the new water inlet valve, ensuring all connections are secure. Reassemble the washer, reconnect power and water, then test with a wash cycle. This step should only be performed by individuals comfortable with appliance repair and electrical work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 4C error code mean on my Samsung washer?

The 4C error code on a Samsung washer indicates a problem with the water supply. This means the washer is not receiving adequate water, or no water at all, to begin or continue a wash cycle.

Can I fix the 4C error myself?

Yes, many common causes of the 4C error, such as kinked hoses, closed faucets, or clogged inlet filters, can be resolved by the user with basic troubleshooting steps. More complex issues like a faulty water inlet valve may require professional assistance or advanced DIY repair.

How do I prevent the 4C error from happening again?

To prevent the 4C error, regularly check your water supply hoses for kinks or blockages, ensure water faucets are fully open, and periodically clean the mesh filters at the water inlet valves. Maintain proper drain hose height to avoid siphoning.

Does low water pressure cause the 4C error?

Yes, insufficient household water pressure can trigger the 4C error. If the water pressure is too low, the washer cannot fill within the expected timeframe, leading to the error code.

Is 4C the same as 4E on a Samsung washer?

The 4C and 4E error codes on Samsung washers generally refer to the same issue: a problem with the water supply. The specific code may vary slightly depending on the washer model, but the underlying cause and troubleshooting steps are typically identical.