E4
Samsung Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E4 error on a Samsung washer (also displayed as 4E on newer models) means the washer is not getting enough water — or no water at all. The machine started a fill cycle but the water did not reach the required level within the expected time. This is most often caused by a water supply problem that you can fix yourself — low water pressure, closed tap, or a kinked hose.
Affected Models
- WF210ANW
- WF203ANS
- WF328AAW
- WF338AAW
- Older Samsung front-load and top-load washers
Common Causes
- The hot or cold water supply tap behind the washer is partially or fully closed
- Low water pressure from the house supply — the fill rate is too slow
- A kinked or crushed water inlet hose preventing water from flowing freely
- Clogged inlet filter screens at the back of the washer (small mesh screens inside the hose connections)
- A failed water inlet valve that is not opening to let water in
How to Fix It
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Check both water supply taps (hot and cold) behind the washer. Both should be fully open — turned counterclockwise as far as they will go. A partially closed tap is a very common cause of E4.
It is easy to accidentally nudge a tap partially closed when pushing the washer back against the wall. Always check this first.
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Check the inlet hoses for kinks. Pull the washer slightly away from the wall and inspect both hoses along their entire length. A hose sharply bent from the washer being pushed back too far will restrict water flow.
Use braided stainless steel hoses rather than rubber hoses. They resist kinking and last much longer. They are available for about $15–$25 at hardware stores.
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Check the inlet filter screens. Unscrew the water hoses from the back of the washer (with the taps turned off and water pressure released). Look inside the inlet holes — there are small mesh screens that filter sediment. If clogged, carefully remove them with needle-nose pliers and rinse under running water.
These screens can become clogged over time, especially in areas with hard water or sediment in the supply. Cleaning them takes about 15 minutes and costs nothing.
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Test the water pressure in your home. Turn on a bathroom faucet and check if the flow seems normal. Samsung washers require at least 0.5 bar (7 psi) of water pressure to fill properly. Low pressure can cause E4.
If you have low water pressure throughout the house, contact your water utility. If pressure is fine elsewhere but low at the washer tap, check if the tap is fully open or if the supply line has a partial blockage.
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If water supply checks out and E4 persists, the water inlet valve may have failed. The inlet valve is the electrical valve inside the washer that opens and closes to let water in. Testing it requires a multimeter. A failed valve must be replaced.
Inlet valve replacement is accessible to confident DIYers. The valve is usually located at the back of the machine where the hoses connect. Replacement parts are available online for $20–$60.
When to Call a Professional
Most E4 causes are user-fixable at no cost. If the water inlet valve has failed, a replacement typically costs $30–$60 in parts and $75–$150 in labor. A plumber can check household water pressure if that is suspected to be the issue. Contact Samsung support at 1-800-726-7864 for warranty questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E4 the same as 4E on Samsung washers?
Yes — they are the same error on different Samsung washer generations. Older Samsung models display it as E4. Newer models display the same fault as 4E. The causes and fixes are identical.
My Samsung washer shows E4 but water is flowing to other appliances — why?
The most likely causes are a clogged inlet filter screen or a partially closed tap specifically at the washer. Also check the hose for kinks. Sometimes the inlet valve inside the washer fails while everything else in the house works normally.
How do I clean the Samsung washer inlet filter screens?
Turn off the water supply taps, then disconnect the hoses at the back of the washer. Look inside each inlet hole — you will see a small mesh screen. Use needle-nose pliers to gently pull out the screen. Rinse it under running water to remove sediment. Reinsert it and reconnect the hoses. Turn the taps back on and check for leaks before pushing the washer back.