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Samsung washer UE code: unbalanced load

Also shown as UB

Urgency
Low
Who can fix it
Easy DIY
Time
About 5 min
Repair cost
$150–$300

The load is unevenly spread in the drum, so the washer will not spin at full speed. Rearranging the clothes usually clears it.

Likely causes

Listed from most to least common.

  1. A single heavy item such as a bath mat, rug or comforter
  2. Load is too small to balance, such as one pair of jeans
  3. Heavy and light items mixed together
  4. Washer is not level on the floor
  5. Shipping bolts still fitted on a newly installed washer
  6. Worn suspension rods or shock absorbers

How to fix the UE code

  1. Step 1: Pause and redistribute the load

    Open the door once it unlocks and spread the items evenly around the drum. Untangle anything that has wrapped into a ball.

  2. Step 2: Adjust the load size

    Add a couple of towels to a very small load, or remove some items from an overloaded one. Wash bulky items like rugs on their own using the Bedding cycle.

  3. Step 3: Level the washer

    Place a level on top of the machine. Turn the front feet to adjust height until it sits flat and does not rock, then tighten the lock nuts.

  4. Step 4: Remove shipping bolts on new installs

    If the washer is new, check the back panel for shipping bolts. Running with them fitted causes violent shaking and damages the drum.

  5. Step 5: Run Rinse + Spin

    Start a Rinse + Spin cycle to finish the wash. If UE appears with normal loads every time, the suspension is likely worn.

You'll need: Spirit level, adjustable wrench.

Parts that may need replacing

Check your model number on the label inside the door or on the back before ordering.

When to call a technician

Call a technician if the code appears with normal, well-balanced loads and the washer is level. Worn suspension parts are a common cause on older machines.

A typical repair for this code costs $150–$300 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.

Models this applies to

  • Front-load washers (WF series)
  • Top-load washers (WA series)
  • FlexWash and washer-dryer combos

Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Samsung support.

Common questions

›Will the clothes still get washed with a UE code?

Yes, but they will come out much wetter because the washer limits the spin speed to protect itself.

›Why does my new Samsung washer shake and show UE?

Check that the shipping bolts were removed from the back panel. This is the most common cause on new installs.

Did this fix work?

All Samsung washer codes

UE on other washer brands