Samsung Washer Calibration: Model-by-Model Guide

Calibrating your Samsung washing machine resets the drum’s position sensors so it can detect load size and balance correctly. This fixes issues like excessive vibration, off-balance errors, or clothes coming out too wet. The process varies by model, so this guide covers the main types: front-loaders with a dial, front-loaders with only buttons, and top-loaders.

What You’ll Need

• Your Samsung washer’s model number (printed on a sticker inside the door or on the back panel).
• An empty washer – no clothes, no detergent.
• Access to the control panel and a flat surface to press buttons.
• Patience – calibration takes 2–10 minutes depending on the model.

Step-by-Step

Always unplug the washer for 30 seconds before starting calibration to reset the control board. Then plug it back in and follow the steps for your model type.

Front-Loaders with a Dial (Most 2015–2023 models)

1. Turn the dial to Spin (or Drain/Spin).
2. Press and hold Spin and Soil Level (or Temp on some models) simultaneously for 3 seconds.
3. Release both buttons. The display will show “tE� or “tC� – this means calibration mode is active.
4. Press Start/Pause once. The drum will slowly rotate for 2–5 minutes.
5. When the display returns to normal (shows a time or “0�), calibration is complete. Turn off the washer.

Front-Loaders with Button-Only Controls (e.g., WF45 series without dial)

1. Press Power to turn on.
2. Press and hold Spin and Temp simultaneously for 3 seconds.
3. Release – the display will show “tE� or “tC�.
4. Press Start/Pause. The drum will tumble and spin for a few minutes.
5. Wait for the display to show a normal cycle time – then power off.

Top-Loaders (e.g., WA45, WA50 series)

1. Turn the dial to Spin Only (or Drain/Spin).
2. Press and hold Spin and Water Level (or Temp) for 3 seconds.
3. Release – the display will show “tE� or “tC�.
4. Press Start/Pause. The drum will agitate and spin for 3–5 minutes.
5. When the cycle ends and the display shows a time, calibration is done.

Older Models (pre-2015, e.g., WF210, WF220)

1. Turn the dial to Spin.
2. Press and hold Spin Speed and Temp for 3 seconds.
3. Release – “tE� appears.
4. Press Start/Pause. Wait for the drum to stop and the display to reset.

Common Mistakes

• Not unplugging the washer first – a residual charge can prevent calibration mode from activating.
• Leaving clothes in the drum – calibration will be inaccurate and may cause an off-balance error.
• Holding the wrong button combination – check your model’s manual if “tEâ€� doesn’t appear.
• Pressing Start too many times – only press once; multiple presses can exit calibration.
• Interrupting the cycle – let it finish completely, even if it seems slow.

Tips

• Calibrate after moving the washer, installing it on uneven flooring, or after a power outage.
• Run calibration with the washer completely empty – even a small towel can skew results.
• If your model has a “Smart Checkâ€� or “Self Testâ€� mode, you can run that first to confirm sensor health.
• After calibration, run a normal empty cycle with a cup of vinegar to clean the drum – this helps sensors read better.
• Write down your model number and the button combo you used – it’s handy for future resets.

Troubleshooting

• “tEâ€� or “tCâ€� doesn’t appear: Double-check the button combination. Some models require holding Spin and Soil Level, others use Spin and Temp. Try both. Also ensure you’re pressing Start within 10 seconds of the code appearing.
• Calibration stops midway or shows an error like “Ubâ€� or “Sudâ€�: This usually means the drum is not empty or the washer is tilted. Level the machine using the adjustable feet, then retry.
• Display shows “5Eâ€� or “SEâ€� during calibration: This is a drain error – check the drain hose for kinks and clean the pump filter (located behind a small door at the bottom front).
• Calibration completes but vibration continues: Run it again – sometimes the sensors need a second pass. Also check that the shipping bolts were removed (they are usually left in place for transport and must be taken out before use).
• No response at all: Unplug for 10 minutes, then try again. If it still fails, the control board may need a reset – hold Power for 10 seconds to force a restart.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I calibrate my Samsung washer?

Only when you notice problems like vibration, off-balance errors, or poor spin performance. There’s no need to calibrate on a schedule – once a year is plenty if you move the machine or adjust its feet.

Will calibration erase my custom settings?

No. Calibration only resets the drum position sensors. Your saved cycles, temperature preferences, and other settings remain intact.

Can I calibrate with clothes inside?

No – the drum must be completely empty. Any load will interfere with the sensor measurements and defeat the purpose.

Why does my washer show “tE� but won’t start?

You may have pressed Start before the code appeared, or the door isn’t fully latched. Close the door firmly, wait for “tE� to show, then press Start once.

What does “tC� mean on the display?

“tC� is the calibration code on some models – it’s the same as “tE�. Both indicate the washer is in calibration mode.

Do I need to calibrate after every power outage?

Not necessarily, but it’s a good idea if you notice unusual behavior. A power surge can sometimes disrupt the sensor memory, and a quick calibration restores normal function.

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