Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC: What It Means and How to Fix It
The Samsung washing machine error code HC means the washer's water heating system is not working correctly. HC is the newer display format for the same heater fault that older Samsung models showed as HE. The heating element has failed, the temperature sensor (thermistor) is reading incorrectly, or there is a wiring issue between these components and the control board. A power reset can clear the code if it was a one-time glitch, but this error usually requires professional diagnosis and repair.
What Does Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC Mean?
The Samsung washing machine error code HC is a heater error that indicates the washer cannot heat water to the temperature selected for the current cycle. Samsung washers equipped with a built-in heater use a thermistor (temperature sensor) to monitor water temperature throughout the wash. When the heater fails to raise the temperature within the expected time, or the thermistor sends abnormal readings, the washer stops the cycle and displays HC.
HC is the updated code label that newer Samsung washers use for this fault. Older models displayed the same error as HE. Some models also show HE1 (heater overheating), Hr (heater relay fault), or 1 HC. The causes, diagnosis, and repair process are the same across all of these variants.
Not every Samsung washer has a built-in heater. Many models depend entirely on the home's hot water supply for warm and hot cycles. If your washer does not have a heater and shows HC, the thermistor or control board is the likely issue. Because the heating element and thermistor are sealed inside the machine, the HC code almost always requires a technician to diagnose and repair.
Why Samsung Washing Machine Shows Error Code HC
How to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC (Step-by-Step)
Unplug the washing machine
Disconnect the washer from the power outlet or switch off its circuit breaker. This is a safety step and the beginning of the reset process.
Wait 10 minutes before restoring power
Leave the washer unplugged for a full 10 minutes. The heater circuit and control board need time to cool and fully discharge. If the HC code was triggered by a power fluctuation, this reset will clear it.
Test your home's hot water supply
Go to a nearby faucet and run the hot water for 30 seconds. If hot water flows normally, your plumbing is fine and the issue is inside the washer. If you have no hot water at the faucet, the problem is your household water heater, not the Samsung washer.
Verify the hot water hose connection
Check the back of the washer. Confirm the hot water supply hose is attached to the hot water inlet (marked with a red indicator or "H"). A hose connected to the wrong inlet or disconnected entirely will prevent the washer from receiving heated water.
Open the hot water valve fully
Turn the hot water supply valve behind the washer all the way counter-clockwise. A valve that is partially closed restricts flow and can prevent the washer from reaching the target cycle temperature.
Run a cold-water cycle to test
Plug the washer back in and select a cold rinse or cold wash cycle. If it completes without the HC error, the problem is isolated to the heating system and needs a technician. A successful cold cycle also lets you wash urgent laundry while you schedule the repair.
If the code returns after these steps, the issue is internal and needs a technician. The heating element, thermistor, and wiring harness are inside the machine and require professional tools to access and test.
When to Stop and Call a Technician
The HC code almost always requires professional repair. Call a Samsung appliance repair technician if:
- The HC code returns immediately after a full 10-minute power reset
- Any warm or hot water cycle triggers the error, but cold cycles work fine
- You detect a burning or electrical smell from the washer
- The display shows HE1, which indicates the heater is overheating rather than failing to heat
- The washer repeatedly stops mid-cycle during the heating phase
How Promix Repairs Samsung Washing Machine HC Errors
When a Promix Appliance Repair technician arrives for an HC error, the first step is testing the heating element for electrical continuity using a multimeter. A heater with an open circuit has failed and needs replacement. The technician also measures the thermistor's resistance and compares it to the manufacturer's specification. If the reading is out of range, the sensor is faulty.
When both the heater and thermistor test within spec, the technician traces the wiring harness and inspects the connectors for corrosion or loose pins. Promix technicians carry common Samsung washer and dryer repair parts, including heating elements and thermistors, for same-day completion when the part is in stock. Every repair includes a warranty on parts and labor, backed by 10+ years of experience.
A service call fee applies and is credited toward the repair if you choose to proceed. Call Promix Appliance Repair at (781) 666-9565 to schedule same-day service.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC?
If a Reset Fixes It
Professional Repair
Call (781) 666-9565 for a transparent quote before any work begins.
How to Prevent Samsung Error Code HC From Coming Back
Same-Day Samsung Repair in Boston and MetroWest
Promix Appliance Repair serves Boston and surrounding MetroWest towns including Newton, Wellesley, Needham, Brookline, Framingham, and Lexington. With a 4.9 Google rating, certified technicians, and common Samsung heater parts on every truck, most HC repairs are completed the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Samsung washing machine with error code HC?
You can run cold-water cycles while waiting for a repair. The HC code only appears during cycles that require the heater to warm the water. Cold rinse and cold wash settings should work normally. The heater problem will not fix itself, so schedule a repair to restore full functionality.
Will resetting my Samsung washing machine clear error code HC?
Unplugging the washer for 10 minutes will clear the HC code from the display. If the cause was a one-time power fluctuation, the code may not come back. If the heating element or thermistor has actually failed, the code will reappear the next time a warm or hot cycle runs.
How long does it take to fix Samsung error code HC?
A power reset takes about 10 minutes. If a technician needs to replace the heating element or thermistor, the repair typically takes 45 to 75 minutes. Promix Appliance Repair carries common Samsung heater parts for same-day completion when available.
Is Samsung error code HC covered under warranty?
If your Samsung washer is still within the manufacturer's warranty period (typically one year for parts and labor), a heater or thermistor replacement due to a manufacturing defect may be covered. Heater failure from normal wear after several years of use is generally not covered. Check your warranty documentation or contact Samsung to confirm.
Is Samsung error code HC the same as HE?
Yes. HC is the updated display format used on newer Samsung washers for the same heater fault that older models displayed as HE. The underlying error, causes, and repair process are identical. Samsung changed the code label across model generations, but the meaning has not changed.
Does my Samsung washer have a built-in heater?
Not all Samsung washers have one. Models with a Steam Wash, Sanitize, or Self Clean cycle typically include a built-in heater. Models without these features usually rely on your home's hot water supply. Check your owner's manual or look up your model number on Samsung's support site to confirm.