The self-diagnosis system of an automatic washing machine checks the components and assemblies of the device in real time and, if a malfunction is detected, displays an error message. Knowing the fault code, it is easy to identify the problem unit and take measures to correct the situation. A fairly common error, which is more familiar to residents of remote parts of the country, is the UC error. The main reason for its appearance is the instability of power supply. Most often, the problem can be fixed on your own; however, in particularly difficult cases, it will not be possible to do without calling a specialist.
UC error code, what does it mean?
The UC error on a Samsung washing machine indicates problems with the power supply of the device. Most often, this message appears on the screens of relatively new models released after 2012. This is due to the fact that older machines had less finicky surge protectors and worked stably with a network voltage range from 175 to 250V or more.
Thanks to this very controversial advantage of new machines, the UC error code is one of the most common faults with Samsung washing machines.At the same time, the frequency of its occurrence increases noticeably with distance from large cities; nevertheless, in remote regions, unstable voltage is practically the norm.
It is worth noting that in the event of a short-term surge in voltage, this error may disappear by itself. Immediately after the power supply is normalized, the device will continue to operate according to the washing program.
In what cases do errors appear?
With the question of what the UC error means, everything is clear - a problem with the power supply has been detected. But this is a fairly general formulation; in order to understand what exactly the problem is, you need to follow the exact moment at which the message appears. This will help to more accurately identify the problem area and take measures to normalize the operation of the machine.
- Most often, the error appears at the beginning of washing. Immediately after the loading hatch has been closed, a program is selected and started.
- The message may appear during operation, for example, as soon as water is filled into the tank.
- Often the error appears immediately after the water starts heating, after the heating element is connected. It is likely that the machine will work fine on the cold wash program.
- The error may also appear at the very end of the wash, when the device switches to spin mode. In this situation, the most common case is when an error occurs at the moment of maximum spin of the drum.
It should be noted that on some models this error may be hidden behind other codes, for example, 9C, 9E1, 9E2 - almost complete analogues of UC.
The most common causes of the UC error
Having figured out what this error means and at what point it appears, it’s time to think about what to do and what actions to take.There seem to be two options for resolving the issue: you can call a technician or try to repair it yourself. The choice is up to the owner, but before making a final decision, it’s a good idea to make sure that the problem is really serious and lies in a malfunction of the washing machine. It is quite possible that calling a specialist will not be necessary.
The UC error can appear due to a number of reasons:
- faulty socket;
- poor quality or damaged extension cord;
- The power cable or plug is damaged;
- voltage surge or sudden drop;
- serious voltage deviation from the norm;
- failure in the machine control unit;
- failure of the electronic components of the control circuit.
Some of the above points are not related to the machine itself, therefore, before disassembling the device or calling a technician, you should make sure that there is normal voltage and the integrity of the cables through which it is supplied to the machine.
Restarting the washing machine
One of the likely causes of the error may be a short-term surge in voltage. In this situation, there is a high probability of a program failure, which resulted in a UC error. The answer to the question of how to fix the situation is simple - you just need to restart the machine. The reboot procedure is a universal method; it is suitable not only for Samsung devices, but also for machines from other manufacturers. To reboot you need to follow a few simple steps:
- turn off the machine using the button on the control panel and remove the plug from the socket;
- wait at least 5 minutes;
- turn it on again and try to start the washing program.
In the event that the problem was caused by a short-term voltage drop, the machine will start normally and work according to the program without failures.
Checking the electrical wiring
Another common reason for this error to appear is a mismatch in power supply parameters caused by a number of factors. Problems can arise either due to the fault of the electricity supplier or due to poor-quality wiring inside the apartment.
First of all, you need to turn off the machine and remove the plug from the socket. Carefully inspect the outlet for oxidation of contacts, which often happens in damp rooms, absence of mechanical damage, and darkening caused by overheating. If there is the slightest doubt about the reliability of the device, the socket is changed. It is important to choose a high-quality socket that is protected from moisture; using a simple household one can result in an electric shock.
If the washing machine is connected through an extension cord, it must be unplugged and visually inspected for kinks in the cable; often, due to an oversight, heavy pieces of furniture are placed on it or stepped on. It is not allowed to operate an extension cord that has external damage to the insulation and traces of pressure on it. In addition to an external inspection, it is worth ringing the cable; quite often you can find cheap carriers made of low-quality materials, in which the voltage is literally “lost.”
In addition, it would be useful to check the voltage in the network. It should be 220V, the deviation should not go beyond the tolerances specified in the documentation for the washing machine. To check, use a voltmeter or multimeter switched to the voltage measurement position. It is important to remember to select AC, range up to 500V or more.
If this error appears spontaneously, but quite often the cause may be the poor condition of the electrical wiring as a whole. This is typical of old houses in which the wiring has not been updated for decades. It makes sense to invite a professional electrician to carry out a full check of the electrical equipment of the apartment. This procedure will not only ensure trouble-free washing, but will also protect against accidents caused by short circuits.
Washing machine malfunction
If the voltage is normal, but the error still appears, you should pay attention to the machine itself. First of all, inspect it visually to make sure that no water has entered the control panel, which could cause a short circuit. Next is to check the control board. This is the most important part of the machine. You should not undertake its repair without having the proper experience and knowledge. The control unit is the part of the washing mashine that is best left to professionals.
Preventing the appearance of the UC error
The main reason for this error is various problems with the power supply. Reducing the likelihood of its occurrence is quite simple - you need to connect the machine through a voltage stabilizer. First of all, this is relevant for people living in villages and small towns; here it is better not to use a washing mashine without a stabilizer.
It is not difficult to choose such a device; in specialized stores there are devices for every taste and budget. When choosing, the most important thing is to pay attention to the power for which the device is designed. It must exceed the power consumption of the machine or the total power of the devices that will be powered through it.
