4C
Samsung · Washing Machine · Error Code

Samsung Washing Machine Error Code 4C — Water Supply / Not Filling

DIY · Easy Fix Also displayed as: 4E nF 4C2
Quick Answer

The 4C error code means your Samsung washing machine is not getting enough water to start or complete a cycle. The most common causes are a closed water valve, a kinked supply hose, or a clogged inlet filter. This is usually a 10- to 20-minute DIY fix with no tools and no parts. If the code persists after checking the supply, the water inlet valve or control board may need professional replacement.

Time
10–20 min
Difficulty
Easy
Tools
Needle-nose pliers
DIY Cost
Free

What the 4C Code Means

The Samsung washing machine error code 4C is a water supply error that indicates the washer cannot detect adequate water flow. The control board triggers this code when water fails to reach the drum within a set time after the fill valve opens.

This code appears across most Samsung front-load and top-load washer models. You may see it flash at the start of a cycle or partway through if the washer loses water pressure during a rinse.

Samsung uses a few related codes for water supply issues. The 4C and 4E codes mean the same thing on most models. The 4C2 code is different — it specifically means the washer is getting hot water when a cold-water cycle was selected. If you see nF on an older Samsung washer, that is also a no-fill error with the same root causes as 4C.

Because the most common causes are external to the machine, 4C is one of the most DIY-friendly codes on a Samsung washer. Work through the steps below in order before assuming a part has failed.

Common Causes — Most Likely First

1
Water supply valves not fully open. The hot and cold faucets behind or above the washer must be fully turned on. A partially closed valve restricts water flow enough to trigger the 4C code. Very common
2
Kinked or bent water supply hoses. A hose that's been pinched against the wall or twisted during installation blocks water from reaching the washer. Common
3
Clogged inlet mesh filters. Small screens at the hose connection points on the back of the washer catch debris from the water line. Sediment and mineral buildup can block these filters over time. Common
4
Low household water pressure. Samsung washers typically need at least 0.5 bar (7 psi) of water pressure to fill properly. If other fixtures in the home are also running slowly, the issue may be house-wide. Occasional
5
Frozen water lines. In cold climates (including New England winters), supply lines in unheated spaces can freeze and stop water flow entirely. Seasonal
6
Faulty water inlet valve. The electronic valve inside the washer that controls water flow can fail. When the valve does not open on command, no water enters the drum. This requires professional replacement. Needs a technician

How to Fix the 4C Error — Step by Step

Unplug the washing machine

Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet. Wait 30 seconds. This clears the error from the control board and gives you a safe starting point.

Check both water supply valves

Locate the hot and cold faucets behind the washer. Turn each valve counterclockwise until fully open. Even a quarter-turn short of fully open can reduce flow enough to cause the 4C error.

Inspect the water supply hoses

Pull the washer forward carefully and look at both hoses running from the wall valves to the back of the machine. Straighten any kinks, bends, or tight loops. Replace any hose that looks cracked, swollen, or damaged.

Clean the inlet mesh filters

Turn off the water supply valves first. Unscrew the hoses from the back of the washer. You will see small mesh screens inside the hose connection ports. Gently pull them out with needle-nose pliers and rinse them under running water until clear. Reinstall them before reconnecting the hoses.

Tip: Take a photo before disconnecting so you can match hot-to-hot and cold-to-cold when reconnecting.

Test water pressure at the hoses

Hold a disconnected hose end over a bucket and briefly open the valve. Water should flow in a strong, steady stream. If the flow is weak, the problem is with your household plumbing, not the washer.

Check for frozen lines (winter months)

If the washer is in a garage, basement, or unheated area, feel the hoses for ice. Let them thaw naturally or warm the area before running the washer again.

Plug back in and run a test cycle

Select a short wash cycle and watch to confirm water fills the drum within the first few minutes. The 4C error should not return.

If the code returns: The issue is internal. The water inlet valve or the main control board may need professional diagnosis and replacement.

When to Call a Technician

Most 4C errors are resolved with the DIY steps above. Book a professional repair if:

  • The 4C error comes back immediately after a reset and you have confirmed the water supply is fully open and flowing
  • Water is leaking from the back of the machine near the inlet valve connections
  • You hear a buzzing or humming sound from the back of the washer when the cycle starts, but no water enters the drum — this usually means the inlet valve is stuck or burned out
  • The washer displays 4C on every cycle regardless of the wash setting selected
  • Other water-related codes (nF, 4E, 4C2) start appearing alongside or instead of 4C

How Promix Repairs Samsung Washing Machine 4C Errors

When a Promix Appliance Repair technician arrives for a Samsung washing machine 4C error, the first step is a full diagnostic. The technician tests the water inlet valve with a multimeter, checks the wiring harness for continuity, and inspects the pressure sensor and control board for faults. This pinpoints the exact failed component rather than guessing.

The most common repair for a persistent 4C code is replacing the water inlet valve. Promix carries common Samsung washer parts, so most repairs are completed in a single visit. If the control board is the issue, the technician will explain the repair and provide a quote before starting work.

Promix Appliance Repair has over 10 years of experience with Samsung washer and dryer repair. All repairs include a warranty on parts and labor. A service call fee applies and is credited toward the repair if you choose to proceed.

Repair Cost Expectations

If You Fix It Yourself

$0
Opening valves, straightening hoses, and cleaning filter screens requires no parts. Needle-nose pliers are the only tool needed for the filters.

Professional Repair

Varies by part
Water inlet valve replacements are typically on the lower end. Control board replacements cost more. Call (781) 666-9565 for a transparent quote.

How to Prevent Error Code 4C From Coming Back

Turn off the water supply valves when the washer is not in use for extended periods (vacation, travel). This reduces wear on the inlet valve and prevents pressure damage.
Clean the inlet mesh filters every six months. This takes two minutes and prevents sediment from restricting flow.
Replace rubber supply hoses every five years. Switch to braided stainless steel hoses, which resist kinking and last longer.
Keep the area around the washer above freezing during winter. If the washer is in an unheated space, consider insulating the supply lines.
Schedule an annual appliance inspection with a professional. A technician can spot early signs of valve wear or hose degradation before they cause an error.

Tried Everything? We'll Fix Your Samsung Washer.

Same-day appointments across Boston and MetroWest. Certified Samsung technicians, common parts stocked on the truck, and a warranty on every repair. Rated 4.9 on Google. Available 7 days a week, 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep using my Samsung washing machine with error code 4C?

No. The washer will not fill or complete a cycle while the 4C code is active. Running the machine without adequate water can also stress the motor and pump. Clear the error first by checking the water supply before attempting another cycle.

Will resetting my Samsung washing machine clear error code 4C?

A reset (unplug for 30 seconds, plug back in) will clear the code from the display. However, if the root cause is still present, the code will return as soon as you start a new cycle. A reset is a good first step but is not a permanent fix on its own.

How long does it take to fix Samsung error code 4C?

If the fix is something you can do yourself (opening a valve, cleaning a filter, straightening a hose), it takes 10 to 20 minutes. If a technician needs to replace the water inlet valve, most repairs take under an hour. Control board replacements may take slightly longer.

Is Samsung error code 4C covered under warranty?

If your Samsung washer is still within the manufacturer's warranty period (typically one year for parts and labor), a water inlet valve failure may be covered. Check your warranty documentation or contact Samsung directly. For out-of-warranty repairs, Promix Appliance Repair provides its own warranty on parts and labor.

Does Samsung error code 4C mean my washer is leaking?

Not necessarily. The 4C code indicates the washer is not getting enough water, not that water is escaping. However, if you notice water on the floor near the washer at the same time as a 4C error, check the supply hose connections for loose fittings or cracks.

Can a clogged drain cause Samsung error code 4C?

No. The 4C code is strictly a water supply (fill) error. A clogged drain would trigger a different error code, such as 5E or nd. If you are seeing both fill and drain errors, there may be a broader issue that a technician should evaluate.