SAMSUNG AC

Samsung Dryer Error AC: Communication Error — Internal Components

Clear meaning, realistic next steps, and safe guidance without turning the page into a long repair manual.

What it means

The dryer's internal electronic components cannot communicate with each other. A communication breakdown has occurred between the main control board and one or more subsystems.

Severity

High - stop using the Samsung dryer until the cause is understood or professional help is arranged.

Can you fix it yourself?

No — call a technician

Most likely cause

Main control board fault or failure

Also displayed as AC, Et, AE, EEE, AE3, AE4, AE5, E3, 1 AC on some models.

Estimated time for safe first checks: Professional service required.

Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide

  1. SAFETY: Unplug the dryer.
  2. Reset by unplugging for 60 seconds, then restore power.
  3. If AC returns, call Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864.

If the code comes back

  • Any recurrence after a 60-second power reset

What This Error Means

Error AC on your Samsung dryer means: The dryer's internal electronic components cannot communicate with each other. A communication breakdown has occurred between the main control board and one or more subsystems. Also displayed as Et, AE, EEE, AE3 on some models. The dryer's self-diagnostic system has flagged this condition and may have paused the current cycle.

The most frequent cause is main control board fault or failure. Work through the causes and steps below before calling a technician.

Samsung's official guidance classifies AC as a technician-only fault. A 60-second power reset is the only DIY step. If the code returns, contact Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864.

Electronics and motor faults require professional diagnosis. A 60-second power reset resolves transient faults. If the code returns after a reset, a physical component has failed and needs replacement.

Most Likely Cause by Symptom

The Samsung dryer may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.

Likely cause: Main control board fault or failure

Check first: SAFETY: Unplug the dryer.

The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.

Likely cause: Wiring harness fault — connector loose or wire broken between boards

Check first: Reset by unplugging for 60 seconds, then restore power.

Common Causes

  • Main control board fault or failure
  • Wiring harness fault — connector loose or wire broken between boards
  • Power surge corrupting board communication
  • Motor control board communication failure

What Not to Do

  • Do not attempt to reconnect board connectors yourself

Model and Display Variation Notes

Model-family notes

  • Samsung dryer display wording and code formats can vary by series.
  • If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
  • Some models may display the same fault as AC, Et, AE, EEE, AE3, AE4, AE5, E3, 1 AC.

Display and panel differences

  • Some control panels show this issue as AC, Et, AE, EEE, AE3, AE4, AE5, E3, 1 AC instead of only AC.
  • Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.

Parts, Tools and Service Options

Service option

Samsung service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.

Manual and model check

Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Samsung dryer parts.

Common parts

  • Main control board ($80–$200)
  • Wiring harness if connector or wiring fault confirmed ($30–$80)

This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.

When Not to Keep Troubleshooting

Any recurrence after a 60-second power reset

How to Prevent It Recurring

  • Use a surge protector on the dryer outlet — voltage spikes are a leading cause of control board communication faults

Related Error Codes

Extra notes

  • This page is based on Samsung support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
  • The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.

Source and model notes

Last reviewed: 2026-04-08

Based on: Based on Samsung support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.

View Samsung US Official Support

Model coverage note: Samsung dryer code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.

Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.

Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.