Samsung Washer Error Code EF — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The EF error on a Samsung washer typically indicates a drain blockage or a foreign object detected in the pump or drain system. This is sometimes called the 'foreign object detected' or 'drain filter clogged' error. Coins, buttons, hair, and small clothing items are the most common culprits. This is a repair you can almost always do yourself.

Affected Models

WF45R6100AW
WF42H5000AW
WF338AAB
WF410ANW
WF56H9100AG

Common Causes

Foreign object (coin, button, hair clip, small sock) stuck in the drain pump or filter
Clogged drain pump filter that has not been cleaned in many months
Kinked or blocked drain hose preventing water from exiting the machine
Drain pump impeller damaged by a foreign object that passed through
Lint and debris buildup in the drain path blocking flow

How to Fix It

Locate the drain filter access door. On most Samsung front-loaders it is a small panel on the lower front corner of the machine, usually on the right side. Open it carefully — water will spill out. Have towels ready.

Some models have a small drain hose behind the panel to drain the remaining water before you unscrew the filter.
Unscrew the drain filter cap counterclockwise. Pull it out completely. Clean it under running water, removing all lint, hair, and debris. Check inside the filter cavity for any trapped objects.

Samsung recommends cleaning this filter every month or two. Many people never do it, so years of buildup are common.
Check inside the filter housing for any objects that passed through. Coins are the most common. Reach in carefully (the drum should be empty) and feel for anything solid. Remove any objects found.

A small flashlight helps see inside the housing cavity.
Inspect the drain hose at the back of the machine. Make sure it is not kinked, crushed, or inserted too far into the standpipe drain. The hose end should sit no more than 6 inches into the standpipe.

A drain hose inserted too deeply into the standpipe can cause siphoning, which prevents proper draining.
Reinstall the clean filter, close the access panel, and run a rinse/spin cycle. If the EF error clears, you're done. If it returns, there may still be a blockage deeper in the pump body.

If you hear grinding or rattling during the rinse cycle, a foreign object is likely stuck in the pump impeller.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning the filter and clearing the drain hose doesn't fix EF, the drain pump itself may be damaged. A blocked object can crack or jam the pump impeller. Drain pump replacement costs $80–$150 for the part, plus $100–$200 for labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the Samsung washer drain filter?

Samsung recommends cleaning it once a month. At minimum, clean it every 3 months. If you wash heavily soiled clothes, pet bedding, or items with sand or grit, clean it more often. A clogged filter forces the pump to work harder and shortens its life.

Can a coin in the drain pump damage my washer?

Yes. Coins can jam the pump impeller, preventing it from spinning. This can burn out the pump motor. Coins with sharp edges can also crack plastic impeller blades. Always empty pockets before washing, and use a mesh laundry bag for small items.

Is there water left in the washer when I get the EF error?

Usually yes. If the washer cannot drain, water remains in the drum. Before you open the filter, have plenty of towels ready and a shallow pan to catch the water that flows out. Some models hold 3–4 liters of water in the sump that will drain when the filter is removed.