A Samsung washing machine conveniently cleans your clothes in a short period. The latest Samsung models have the latest features and technology that are helpful in modern homes. Among these features are the Samsung washing machine error codes that alert you when the washing machine has a problem.
It can be stressful when the washing machine stops working and displays an error code like 3C. the first question that comes to mind is, how do I fix error 3C on a washing machine? Read more to learn what this error code means and the troubleshooting tips to clear it off.
What is the error code 3C on a Samsung washing machine?
It means a washing motor or hall sensor error; hence your washing machine is not working. There may also be a floating drain obstacle, or the drain pump has malfunctioned under a laundry load. These are the possible reasons for the error code in the washing machine:
- Faulty washing motor.
- Faulty washing motor hall sensor.
- Incorrect connections of the motor hall sensor connector.
- Faulty washing motor rotor and stator.
- Faulty main PCB.
Below are the troubleshooting tips that may help fix the problem:
1. Reset the washing machine
The washing machine may be experiencing a system glitch. Therefore, it will give false information to the control panel that the machine is a draining issue. To fix this, you can reset the washing machine by turning it off and unplugging it from the power source.
Let it rest for less than five minutes and plug it back into the socket. The error code 3C should have cleared by switching it off, and your washing machine resumes normal operations.
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2. The washing drum is overloaded
Another reason there is a 3C error code on a Samsung washing machine is that it is overloaded with clothes.
You can fix this by removing some clothes from the drum and starting the cycle again. If this method does not work, unplug it from the socket and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Power supply issue
The 3C error code tells you that the motor doesn’t have enough power. It then informs the mainboard that it is not spinning as fast as it normally should.
Ensure that you run the machine and check whether enough power is supplied to the drain pump at the drain portion of the cycle.
4. Broken wire
Aside from an overloaded washing drum or system glitch, the wire in the wiring harness may be broken. It results in an intermittent connection to the mainboard and sends no data from the motor. Depending on the model you are using, you can manually fix this problem with the right wiring harness.
5. Faulty washing motor hall sensor
The hall sensor helps the control board ensure there is normal functioning in the washing machine. It is located on the stator at the back of the motor. When it is damaged, it fails to inform the control board that the motor is spinning and, in turn, stops the washing machine.
If this is the case, replace the hall sensor with a new one. You can do it yourself if you know your way around the electricity and its circuits. You will only require the washing machine’s manual, a digital multimeter, and a few tools.
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6. Faulty washing motor
The motor problems may result from worn-out carbon brushes and strange noises. Use a multimeter to test the motor’s continuity and determine its condition by its reading. Set the multimeter to RX1 and test the two probes of the motor.
If it reads 0 or near 0, it is in good condition. However, if it reads infinity, the motor is faulty and needs to be replaced.
7. Faulty main PCB
The printed circuit board or PCB is prone to failure because of burnt components or defects such as misaligned layers, short circuits, and crossed signals. It may trip the electrics and fail to turn on the washing machine when it fails.
If the PCB is tested to be faulty, it should be replaced with a new one. Once you have completed this, restart the washing machine and test whether the error code has cleared.
8. A disconnected motor hall sensor
Because of a foreign object, the washing motor hall sensor may be disconnected from the motor and the control board. As a result, the drum may be jammed and fail to start the cycle.
You can fix this by looking for the foreign object and removing it through the hole of the heating element. To access the heating element, remove the front panel of the dishwasher.
9. Seek further assistance
You have tried all the above solutions, but the error code 3C persists on display. What’s worse is a continuous loud humming sound from the washing machine.
You should consult a professional technician to troubleshoot the problem and fix it. It is preferred that you contact Samsung customer care to diagnose the problem and fix it.
Final words
The Samsung washing machine is a great home appliance that cleans your laundry loads. Therefore, it is stressful when there is a 3C error on a washing machine and it stops working.
The error code means that the washing machine is experiencing a motor or motor hall sensor problem. It can be caused by overloading clothes, faulty motor, hall sensor, or printed circuit board.
You can diagnose and fix the Samsung washing machine 3C error code by using a multimeter and replacement components. If you cannot do it, or the error code persists, consult a professional technician or Samsung customer service to troubleshoot the washing machine’s problem.