Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
ErrBase

Samsung Dryer Et Error Code: Fix EEPROM Issues

Quick Answer

An Et code signals an internal memory glitch on the main control board. Try a hard reset by unplugging the dryer for ten minutes to clear the logic. If the code persists after restoring power, the main control board usually needs to be replaced.

Here's what I tell customers when I show up and see an Et code: your dryer's brain basically threw up its hands. If you ignore it, the machine just won't run, period. It's not a fire hazard, but you're also not drying anything until it's fixed. About three out of ten times, unplugging it for ten minutes is all it takes. The other seven? New board, plain and simple.

SamsungDryerSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
10–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
Phillips #2 screwdriver, Flathead screwdriver (for prying panel clips)

What Does the Et Code Mean?

OK so the Et code is basically your dryer telling you its memory chip is confused or toast. Samsung's PCBs are actually pretty solid, but they hate dirty power, and I've seen a ton of these come in after summer storms. Board replacement runs $150-250 for parts. Not cheap, but it's a pretty straightforward swap if you're comfortable opening the machine up.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Main Control Board Failure70%
Temporary Software Glitch20%
Wiring/Harness Issues10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • The Et code just sits there on the display and the dryer won't do anything at all, buttons included, like the whole control panel is completely frozen.
  • Dryer stops mid-cycle, beeps a few times, and throws the Et code, usually about 5-10 minutes into a load when the board tries to write a state update to memory.
  • You power it on and it immediately shows Et without even trying to start, no humming, no drum movement, nothing happens.
  • Display is dim or flickering before the code appears, which is usually a sign the board has been struggling for a while and finally gave up.
  • Buttons feel unresponsive or there's a delay of several seconds between pressing something and getting any reaction from the machine.

Can you reset a Samsung dryer to clear the Et code?

Unplug the dryer completely from the wall. Then press and hold the Start/Pause button for about 30 seconds while it's unplugged to drain the residual charge from the capacitors. Wait the full ten minutes before plugging back in. Once you restore power, don't just hit Start right away. Let it sit powered on for 30 seconds first, then kick off a Time Dry cycle. If the display comes up clean with no Et code, you're good.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Phillips #2 screwdriverFlathead screwdriver (for prying panel clips)Multimeter with AC and DC voltage capabilityWork glovesFlashlight or headlampElectrical contact cleaner sprayPhone or camera for photographing connector locations before disassembly

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a power surge cause the Et error code?
Yeah, power surges are honestly the number one thing I see causing Et codes. A voltage spike hits the EEPROM chip and scrambles the startup data. The chip is tiny and pretty fragile when it comes to electrical noise. Plug your dryer into a proper surge protector rated for appliances, not just a cheap power strip. It's like a $30 fix that can save you a $200 board replacement. I've had the same customers call me back twice for the exact same error because they skipped the surge protector after the first repair.
Is the Et code the same as the tE code?
Nope, totally different faults. The tE code is a thermistor problem, which is a temperature sensor issue. Et is specifically about the EEPROM memory chip on the main board. Look really carefully at your display because those two codes can look similar at a glance, especially if the display is dim. Wrong diagnosis means buying the wrong part. tE is usually a much cheaper fix since thermistors run $15-30. Et almost always means the main control board, which is $150-250.
How long should I leave the dryer unplugged to reset the Et code?
Ten minutes minimum. I know some people say 30 seconds is enough, and sometimes it is, but Samsung's main control boards have larger capacitors than a lot of competing brands. Those capacitors hold residual voltage that keeps the memory stuck in its corrupted state even after you pull the plug. Ten minutes is enough for everything to fully discharge and force a clean cold boot when power comes back. Short resets often just bring the Et code right back within a few minutes.
Will replacing the display board fix an Et error?
Almost never. The Et code is a main control board fault, the display board just shows you what the main board is thinking. Unless you've got visible damage on the display board's ribbon cable or a clearly burnt connector on that side, don't waste money replacing the display. Go straight to the main PCB. Depending on your model, it's either mounted in the back of the dryer or accessible from under the top panel.
Is it worth fixing an Et error on an older Samsung dryer?
Under seven years old? Yeah, fix it. Board replacement is $150-250 for the part and about an hour of your time if you're doing it yourself. Over ten years old with other issues like squeaking, weak heat, or a drum that wobbles? Probably time to start shopping. You're basically putting a new engine in a car with 200,000 miles. The board repair itself is straightforward, but if the machine's already showing wear elsewhere, something else will break within the year.
What part number do I need for the Samsung dryer main control board?
It depends on your exact model, so don't just search 'Samsung dryer control board' because there are dozens of different revisions. Pull the model number from the sticker inside the door frame first. Common part numbers I've ordered include DC92-01803A and DC92-02539A, but yours might be completely different depending on the model year. Always match the part number to your specific model. A parts site that lets you enter your model number and filter results is the way to go here.

Models Known to Experience Et Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DV45H7000EW, DV50K7500EV, DV42H5200EP, DVE50R5200W, DVE45R6100C, DV48H7400EW, DVE55M9600V

MS

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 17, 2026