One of the most common error codes you’ll encounter on your Samsung microwave is the sensor error (SE).
If it’s caused by dirt build-up on the touchpad, it requires a quick and easy fix, which should take no longer than 10 minutes. However, if the issue has to do with the ribbon cable or control board, you might be dealing with a more complicated fix.
Not to worry, we’ll show you different ways to resolve the SE code. We’ll also give you step-by-step instructions to help you resolve the code safely.
What is the Samsung microwave SE error code?
A sensor error (SE) code on a Samsung microwave appears when the control board or touchpad is malfunctioning. It can be caused by dirt build-up on the ribbon cable or control board.
It can also be caused by component failure. If the control board is malfunctioning, it needs to be replaced.
How to Clear the SE Error Code on a Samsung Microwave
An SE error code can be resolved by resetting your Samsung microwave. In most cases, you’ll have to clean dirt build-up on the touchpad, ribbon cable, or control board.
However, if that doesn’t work, you might have a faulty control panel. In such a case, it has to be replaced by a professional.
| Quick Note: Repairing a microwave is more complicated than repairing a fridge or any other appliance because of its high-voltage capacitor. It will still store electricity even after you unplug your appliance. Thus, you need to discharge the capacitor before carrying out any repairs on your microwave. |
Power cycle your Samsung microwave.
If you receive any error code on your Samsung microwave, you first thing you need to do is power cycle it.
Sometimes, a glitch in the system will cause the error code. If it is merely a glitch, the error will clear right after your microwave resets.
To power cycle your Samsung microwave, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Disconnect your microwave from its power source.
- Step 2: Leave your microwave unplugged for at least 60 seconds.
- Step 3: Plug your microwave back in.
- Step 4: Check the display if the SE code still appears.
If the SE code doesn’t go away after your microwave resets, try the other solutions. Start with cleaning your touchpad.
Clean your touchpad or control panel.
Over time, dust and dirt can build up on your microwave’s touchpad, especially if you don’t clean it regularly. If there’s too much grime on your control panel, the control board often fails to detect when you’re pressing the buttons.
To clean your Samsung microwave’s touchpad, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Unplug your microwave.
- Step 2: Dip a sponge or microfiber cloth into a bowl of warm water and mild dish soap. Or, you can use a 1:1 vinegar and water mixture to clean your microwave.
- Step 3: Gently wipe your control panel with a damp sponge or cloth.
- Step 4: Wipe the control panel with a clean and dry cloth.
- Step 5: Let your microwave dry before plugging it back in.
If the SE code doesn’t disappear after these fixes, you might have to open your microwave and access the ribbon cable and control board.
| Cleaning Tips: • Clean your Samsung microwave at least once per week. • Avoid using abrasive cleaners like alcohol. • Use soft fabric to wipe your microwave to prevent scratches. • Wipe your food spills and splatters right away to prevent them from hardening, which becomes more difficult to scrub off. • Don’t forget to clean the doors and the seals. • Wipe away any food residue that can prevent the doors from closing properly. |
Clean your ribbon cable and control board.
We’ll show you how to open your Samsung microwave and clean the ribbon cable and control board. Be sure to follow the steps carefully.
- Step 1: Unplug your microwave.
- Step 2: Discharge your high-voltage capacitor. Hold the insulated handles of your pliers and carefully touch the metal tips onto the two terminals of the capacitor.
- Step 3: Remove the screws on your microwave’s top cover.
- Step 4: Take off the top cover and set it aside.
- Step 5: Unmount the control panel.
- Step 6: Take photos of the connections at the back of the control panel before disconnecting them.
- Step 7: Disconnect the wires on the control panel.
- Step 8: Press both ends of the ribbon cable and carefully pull it out.
- Step 9: Get a pencil eraser and use it to clean the dirt on your ribbon cable. Or, use a q-tip soaked in rubbing alcohol to wipe the dirt off the ribbon.
- Step 10: Let the connector dry before reconnecting it.
- Step 11: Wipe dust off your control board using a dry soft cloth.
- Step 12: Check your control board for signs of damage and take photos of it. Then, contact Samsung’s service center for assistance.
- Step 13: Reconnect all the cables and wires. Refer to the photos you took to make reassembly faster and easier.
- Step 14: Reattach the control panel and its screws.
- Step 15: Reinstall the top cover and its screws.
- Step 16: Plug your microwave in and check if the error is resolved.
Contact a professional for help.
If the SE code still appears on your display after power cycling and cleaning your microwave, we recommend calling a professional. Request service as you might be dealing with component failure.
Due to the complexity of microwave repairs, and for safety reasons, we recommend hiring a professional to perform the necessary repairs.
