Quick answer
On Samsung dryers, HE is a heating error, the dryer not heating or heating too slowly, and HC a high-temperature error, often caused by a restricted vent. tS and tO point to a shorted or open temperature sensor (thermistor). dE, dO or dC mean the door is open or its switch has failed, and 9C1 or 9E that the supply voltage is out of range. AE is a communication fault between boards and bE a stuck button. Clean the vent and check the breaker first; codes vary by model. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
Samsung dryers show a two- or three-character code when something is out of range. Many point to airflow or power you can check yourself. Meanings vary by model and generation, so confirm against your manual or Samsung's support site with the model number from the label inside the door.
Heat Codes
| Code | Usual meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| HE, hE | Not heating, or heating too slowly | Electric: reset both halves of the double breaker. All: clean the vent |
| HC, hC | Temperature too high | Clean the lint filter, the duct and the outside vent |
| Filter check light | Lint filter or airflow | Clean the filter; check the vent if it stays on |
A restricted vent is behind many heat codes. The U.S. Fire Administration names failure to clean as the leading cause of home dryer fires, so treat HC as a reason to clean the whole run. See dryer not heating.
Sensor and Power Codes
| Code | Usual meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| tS, tO | Temperature sensor shorted (tS) or open (tO) | Technician repair |
| 9C1, 9E | Supply voltage out of range | Check the breaker and outlet; then a repair |
| AE, AC | Communication fault between control boards | Power-cycle; if it returns, a repair |
| bE | A button stuck or pressed too long | Press each button; if it stays, the control panel |
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
Door Codes
| Code | Usual meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| dE, dO, dC | Door open, or door switch fault | Close firmly; a failed switch or latch is a repair |
When It Is a Repair
- HE that returns after the breaker and vent check out, often a heating element, thermal fuse, or on gas models the gas valve coils.
- Any tS or tO code.
- 9C1 that returns with a good breaker.
- dE with the door firmly shut.
Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430. See dryer repair.
The Call
Call with the exact code and model number. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does HE mean on a Samsung dryer?
A heating error: the dryer is not heating, or not reaching temperature in time. On electric models check both halves of the breaker; on any model check the vent. If it returns, the heating element, thermal fuse or gas valve coils may have failed.
What does HC mean on a Samsung dryer?
A high-temperature error, often from a restricted vent. Clean the lint filter, duct and outside vent before anything else.
What does tS or tO mean on a Samsung dryer?
tS points to a shorted temperature sensor and tO to an open one. That is a sensor or wiring repair.
What does 9C1 mean on a Samsung dryer?
The supply voltage is outside the range the dryer expects. Check the breaker and outlet; if it persists, have the power supply checked.
Sources
- Samsung US support: dryer information codes
- U.S. Fire Administration: clothes dryer fires in residential buildings
- Angi: dryer repair cost
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.