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Error code

Samsung Washing Machine AE Error - Communication Fault

Samsung AE means the washing machine has detected a signal communication error between electronic controls. Wait briefly or restart the cycle once; if AE returns, Samsung advises contacting a service centre.

Last updated: 29 July 2026

Quick answer

AE: A signal communication error between electronic controls

Severityhigh

Meaning

A signal communication error between electronic controls

First safe check

Wait a few minutes to see whether the washing machine returns to normal operation.

Stop if

AE remains after the restart

Who to call

Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance technician if AE remains after one restart, returns during the next cycle, or the controls behave unpredictably.

High severity: escalate quickly if it persists. Disconnect power before checking accessible parts where the appliance guidance says to do so.

Fix time

5 minutes for one restart

Difficulty

Easy restart; professional diagnosis if persistent

Samsung recommends waiting briefly and restarting the cycle once.

Expected outcome: A temporary interruption may clear; a recurring AE needs service diagnosis.

What does this error code mean?

Samsung lists AE with AC and AC6 as a signal communication error. On applicable models, the washer's electronic control sections are not exchanging information normally, so the cycle may pause or fail to start.

Samsung's user guidance is limited: wait a few minutes because the washer may recover, then switch it off and restart the cycle once if it does not. If AE remains or returns, contact a Samsung service centre.

This is different from AE6 on models where Samsung uses AE6 for inverter communication. Use the exact code and the manual for your model rather than treating AE and AE6 as interchangeable.

Symptoms users may notice

  1. The cycle may stop even though the door, water supply, and drain appear normal.
  2. The control panel may remain on while the machine does not continue.
  3. AE may return immediately after a restart.

What users often notice

  1. The washer may power on normally but cannot coordinate the next stage of the programme.
  2. The code may appear without the visible blockage or loading problem associated with other washer faults.

Why is this happening?

  1. Temporary communication interruption between electronic controls
  2. Internal connection or wiring fault
  3. Main or secondary control-board fault
  4. A model-specific electronics fault requiring Samsung diagnosis

What this usually points to

Samsung describes AE as communication trouble between electronic controls. Those parts and their wiring are inside the appliance and are not user-service checks.

How to fix this safely

  1. Wait a few minutes to see whether the washing machine returns to normal operation.
  2. If it does not recover, switch the washer off and disconnect it from the mains.
  3. After a short pause, reconnect power and restart the cycle once.
  4. If AE remains or returns, stop using the machine and contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance technician.

Can I fix this myself?

No

Beyond one normal restart, AE is an internal communication fault without a useful user-service repair.

Safety boundary: Do not open the cabinet, reseat internal connectors, or test control boards and wiring.

What not to do

  1. Do not repeat power resets if AE returns.
  2. Do not remove the cabinet or touch internal control boards, plugs, or wiring.
  3. Do not confuse AE with AE6 without checking the model manual.

Common misdiagnoses

  1. AE is not Samsung's normal water-inlet, drainage, or unbalanced-load warning.
  2. AE6 can refer to inverter communication on applicable models and should be checked separately.

Reset steps

  1. Wait a few minutes with the machine stopped.
  2. Switch it off, disconnect it from the mains briefly, then reconnect it.
  3. Start the cycle once and stop if AE appears again.

Intermittent vs persistent faults

A brief communication interruption may clear after waiting or one restart. AE that remains or returns is persistent and should be referred to Samsung support.

Manual reference

Samsung UK washing machine error-code guide

When to call a technician

Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance technician if AE remains after one restart, returns during the next cycle, or the controls behave unpredictably.

Safety warning

Disconnect the appliance from the mains before arranging service. Do not open the cabinet or attempt internal electrical checks.

Useful hub links

Samsung appliance error code hub

Browse all Samsung appliance error code clusters.

Samsung Washing Machine error code list

See every washing machine code in this cluster.

Related power and control fault codes

Samsung Washing Machine AC Error - Communication Fault Meaning

The washer has detected an internal communication fault between electronic controls.

Samsung Washing Machine Error Code AC6

The washer has detected a communication problem between internal control modules.

Samsung Washing Machine Error Code AE6

The washer has detected a persistent communication fault inside the control electronics.

Samsung Washing Machine Error Code 3E

Motor drive or drum movement issue

After resolving this fault, use the right wash setting to help prevent repeat issues.

Relevant guide

Washing Machine Not Cleaning Properly

Start by reducing the load, using a suitable full-length programme, checking detergent dose, and comparing drainage or foam-related faults if laundry is soapy or wet.

Frequently asked questions

What does AE mean on a Samsung washing machine?+

Samsung lists AE as a signal communication error between electronic controls.

How do I clear Samsung washing machine AE?+

Wait a few minutes, then switch the machine off and restart the cycle once. Contact Samsung support if AE remains or returns.

Can I keep using a Samsung washer with AE showing?+

No. Do not continue normal use if AE returns after the one restart Samsung recommends.

Is Samsung AE the same as AE6?+

Not always. Samsung may use AE6 for inverter communication on applicable models, while AE is grouped with general signal communication errors. Check the exact code in the model manual.

Can a blocked filter cause Samsung AE?+

AE is an electronic communication code, not Samsung's normal drainage warning. A blocked filter is more commonly associated with 5E or 5C.

Sources and review status

Source checked · Last reviewed 29 July 2026

source checked

Model variation note

Samsung code availability and wording vary by model. Check the manual for the full model number if the display is unclear or shows AE6 rather than AE.