Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Unplug the dryer.
- Reset by unplugging for 60 seconds, then restore power.
- 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.
What users usually notice before this code
Samsung dryer warnings like this usually appear after airflow restriction, repeated lint buildup, interrupted heating, or a cycle that stops without returning to normal drying.
Common misdiagnoses
- Assuming the display code proves one exact failed part before the safe first checks are done.
- Restarting the appliance repeatedly instead of confirming whether the same fault returns after one clean recovery attempt.
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
9C1
The dryer has detected an abnormality in the voltage being supplied. The power is either too high, too low, or fluctuating beyond safe operating limits.
FC
The dryer has detected that the power supply frequency does not match its requirements. US dryers require 60Hz — this error most commonly occurs when a dryer is used outside its intended market.
Helpful guides for this problem
Guide
When repeated dryer error codes usually mean it is time to stop DIY troubleshooting
When a dryer warning has moved past sensible first checks and into the territory where more DIY retries stop helping.
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Guide
When to repair vs replace a refrigerator with repeated fault codes
How to think through the repair-versus-replace decision when the same refrigerator warning keeps coming back.
When not to keep pushing DIY troubleshooting
If the same warning returns after the first safe checks, or the next step would require invasive disassembly, stop there and move to model-specific guidance or service.
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.