Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC
Heating over-temperature error — water heated beyond safe limit
The control sensed the wash water (or, on combo washer-dryers, the drying air) climbing past its safe temperature, so it shut the heater off and stopped the cycle to prevent damage. A failed thermistor reading falsely, or a heater relay stuck closed, drives the temperature up uncontrolled.
What Does Error Code HC Mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?
Heating over-temperature error — water heated beyond safe limit.
The control sensed the wash water (or, on combo washer-dryers, the drying air) climbing past its safe temperature, so it shut the heater off and stopped the cycle to prevent damage. A failed thermistor reading falsely, or a heater relay stuck closed, drives the temperature up uncontrolled.
What Causes Error Code HC?
Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:
- 1 Thermistor (temperature sensor) failure 45% of cases
- 2 Heater relay stuck closed on control board 30% of cases
- 3 Heating element fault 15% of cases
- 4 Wiring/connector fault at the heater 10% of cases
How to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code HC
- 1
Power cycle
Unplug the washer for 10 minutes. A one-time over-temp glitch may clear.
- 2
Test the thermistor
Access the heater area and check the NTC sensor — roughly 10k ohms at room temperature. Out of spec = replace.
🔩 Multimeter 🔩 Samsung washer thermistor ($20–$50)⚠️ Unplug before accessing the heater. - 3
Inspect the heating element
Check the element for continuity and signs of scaling or burn-through.
🔩 Samsung washer heating element ($40–$110)
How to Reset Error Code HC
Unplug 10 minutes and restart. If HC returns once a heated cycle begins, test the thermistor first.
Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.
Did this guide fix your appliance?
✓ Thanks — your feedback helps us improve this guide for the next person.
Thanks for letting us know. If the steps above didn't work, see when to call a professional.
When to Call a Professional
If the thermistor and element test good but HC persists, the control board heater relay is stuck and the board needs replacement.
Related Error Codes
Same Code on Other Brands
Error code HC appears on these other brands too. See every brand that shows HC →
Find Replacement Parts
Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Samsung Washing Machine:
External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.
More Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error code HC mean on a Samsung Washing Machine? +
How do I fix error code HC on my Samsung Washing Machine? +
How do I clear or reset error code HC? +
Is error code HC serious? +
Sources & References
- • Samsung Support — Error Codes — official manufacturer documentation
- • Our editorial & verification policy
Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 14, 2026.