Samsung washing machine - UC error

UC error in a Samsung washing machine The self-diagnostic system in Samsung washing machines can detect a wide range of errors and malfunctions that arise in various components and modules. However, it can be difficult for the average user to decipher the message the machine persistently displays when it refuses to turn on and wash clothes. The UC error in Samsung washing machines is no exception, and we'll discuss it in today's post.

When does the code appear?

To more accurately determine the cause of the UC code (or its equivalent) on your Samsung washing machine and decipher it, you need to observe the moment it appears. There are several possible causes for this error, which we'd like to discuss in more detail.

The UC error appears on the washing machine display at the very beginning of the wash cycle, when the door lock is activated and you have just pressed the program start button.
This error may occur after your Samsung washing machine first fills the drum with water. Once the water fill is complete, the error appears.

In many cases of the UC error, restarting the washing machine doesn't even temporarily resolve the problem. The water must be drained manually.

The UC code suddenly appears on the displays of Samsung washing machines shortly after the start Heating element operation. This situation is interesting because the UC error does not appear on the display if you wash clothes in cold water.
The latter situation occurs when this code appears immediately before the spin cycle begins. As soon as the drum reaches 600-800 rpm, the program stops, and UC appears on the display.

Earlier, we mentioned some analogs of the UC code. Now we'll explain what we're talking about. Different Samsung washing machines have different codes stored in their self-diagnostic system. The same faults can be indicated by different codes. In our case, full and partial analogues UC codes are as follows: 9C, 9E1, 9E2.

What does it mean?

Let's finally figure out what this error code means. Literally, UC stands for "power supply problem." That is, the Samsung washing machine's sensors have detected a significant increase in power supply voltage or, conversely, a critical decrease.

Washing machines of this brand, manufactured before 2012, responded normally to voltages ranging from 175 to 270 V. In other words, the machine operated smoothly even with such fluctuations and displayed virtually no errors. In recent years, the company has introduced washing machine models with much more sensitive surge protectors, which was immediately noticed by residents of rural Russia. In small towns, the electrical grid condition leaves much to be desired, and accordingly, the chances of getting the UC error code when using a modern Samsung washing machine there are much higher.

The main reasons for the code's appearance

faulty socket The most common reason your washing machine displays the UC error code is short-term or long-term power outages. This could be due to:

faulty socket;
a power surge that is not fatal for the electrics and electronics of a Samsung washing machine;
constantly low or too high voltage in the electrical network;
faulty or unsuitable extension cord;

By the way, you shouldn't connect an automatic washing machine to the power supply via an extension cord at all, but if you absolutely must, get one with a suitable power cord and short-circuit protection.

short-term failure in the control module voltage monitoring system.

In rare cases the cause of the error UC is a control module malfunction. To be precise, the control module in such cases usually works, but one of the circuit board tracks and/or a semiconductor element's pin periodically shorts out, causing a malfunction. This problem is essentially a hidden danger, as after several repeated washing machine starts, the track can burn out and the control module will fail.

How to fix it?

If you encounter the UC error while using your Samsung washing machine, don't despair, as in most cases the problem can be resolved without repairing your "home assistant." However, don't get too excited; first, you need to check everything and determine the specific cause of the malfunction.

First, we need to determine whether the UC error will reoccur even if we simply reboot the washing machine. Many problems with this error are resolved by rebooting, so let's start there.

Turn off the washing machine using the on/off button.
We remove the plug of the “home assistant” power cord from the socket.
Wait 3-5 minutes.
We insert the plug back into the socket and start the machine.

If the machine washes normally after a reboot and the UC error no longer appears, you were dealing with a short-term glitch. If the error recurs, you should immediately begin investigating the cause; it's likely more serious than initially thought. The second step is to thoroughly check the electrical system. It might be best to call an electrician, but if you live in a small town and have previously encountered voltage drops or surges, you won't have to call one.

When testing electrical wiring, exercise extreme caution and follow safety precautions. Failure to follow these rules can pose a risk to your life and health.

In this case, a special voltage stabilizer can help solve the problem of voltage surges. In the article How to choose a stabilizer for a washing machineWe describe in detail the types and purposes of these devices and how they help solve the problems caused by poor electrical systems. Read on and you'll learn a lot.

You should also check the electrical outlet and wiring. If the washing machine is connected to the power supply via an extension cord, it might be a good idea to remove it and plug it directly into the outlet. The electrical outlet for the washing machine must be protected from moisture. Plugging a washing machine into a regular outlet can, under certain conditions, pose a risk of electric shock. According to statistics, several dozen people die in Russia every year from electric shock when touching the body of an automatic washing machine. The conclusions are obvious.

Check to see if a large amount of water has spilled onto the front panel of the washing machine. If water has leaked onto the control board, it could cause a short circuit, in which case the electronics will need to be repaired. Even if you don't find any electrical issues, the control board should still be checked, and it's best to have this done by a specialist.

In conclusion, we'd like to point out that you shouldn't attempt to repair the electronic module yourself. Our specialists often have to correct the incompetent efforts of do-it-yourselfers who tried to fix their washing machines themselves. Some problems can be repaired independently, while others cannot. The control module should only be entrusted to a professional. Good luck!