hE4
Samsung Dryer
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
The hE4 error means your Samsung dryer has detected a fault in the inlet temperature sensor circuit. The sensor that monitors incoming air temperature is either sending a wrong reading or has failed completely. The dryer shuts down because it cannot safely control the heat without a working temperature sensor.
Affected Models
- DVE50R8500V
- DVE55M9600V
- DVG55M9600V
- DVE52M8650V
- Select Samsung electric and gas dryers
Common Causes
- The inlet thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed or is out of its normal resistance range
- The wiring connector to the thermistor has come loose or corroded
- The wire harness leading to the thermistor is damaged or pinched
- The control board has failed and is misreading the thermistor signal
- Excessive lint buildup around the sensor is causing incorrect temperature readings
How to Fix It
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Unplug the dryer and leave it off for 10 minutes.
A power reset can sometimes clear a temporary sensor glitch before the full diagnostic.
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Restart the dryer and run a short cycle to see if hE4 returns.
If it does not return, monitor over the next few cycles. A one-time error may have been a power fluctuation.
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Clean the lint trap and the area around the moisture and temperature sensors.
Lint buildup around sensors can cause false readings. Look for sensors on the drum baffle or exhaust duct.
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If hE4 returns consistently, check the thermistor connector at the back of the dryer.
This requires removing the back panel. Look for a small connector — reseat it firmly if it's loose.
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If reseating the connector doesn't help, the thermistor needs to be tested and likely replaced.
A technician can measure the thermistor resistance. At room temperature it should read around 10,000 ohms.
When to Call a Professional
The hE4 error almost always requires professional diagnosis. The thermistor and its wiring need to be tested with a multimeter. Thermistor replacement costs $80–$180 including parts and labor. If the control board is the cause, repair costs can reach $250–$450.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the inlet thermistor do in a Samsung dryer?
The inlet thermistor measures the temperature of the air entering the dryer drum. The control board uses this reading to regulate how much heat the element produces. If the sensor fails, the dryer has no way to control heat safely, so it shuts down.
How do I know if the thermistor is bad vs. the wiring?
A technician uses a multimeter to measure the thermistor's resistance. A good thermistor reads around 10,000 ohms at room temperature. A reading of zero or infinite resistance means the thermistor is bad. If the thermistor reads correctly but the error persists, check the wiring connections.
Can hE4 damage my dryer if I ignore it?
Yes — if the heat sensor is faulty, the dryer cannot regulate temperature properly. This could lead to overheating, which can damage clothing, the drum, or worse. Do not bypass or ignore the hE4 error. Get it fixed before using the dryer again.