The 9E error code is one of the 22 error codes in Samsung dishwashers with digital displays. Though not as common as the other errors, it’s just as vexing.
So let’s dive into what the error is telling you and how you can fix it.
What does the 9E error code mean?
The 9E error code means that your dishwasher isn’t getting enough water. This can be caused by low water pressure, a faulty sensor, or a clogged water supply hose.
Unplug your dishwasher for 10 minutes and reboot it. Ensure that the water supply tap is open and the inlet hose isn’t bent or damaged.
If these don’t resolve the error, you can also try the following steps.
- Clean the sensor and the float switch
- Test the water inlet valve if it’s working correctly
- Make sure that the drain hose has a high loop
If you need more guidance on how to carry out these steps, just follow our detailed explanation below.
Causes of the 9E Error Code and How to Fix Them
There are 7 potential causes for the 9E error code to be triggered. Here’s a quick overview of what they are and how you can resolve them.
| Cause | Solution |
| Partially Closed Shut Off Valve | Locate the water supply tap and make sure that it is fully open. |
| Low Water Pressure/ Plumbing Issues | Test your water pressure at home by opening one of the faucets. If the pressure is low, inspect for any plumbing issues. |
| Malfunctioning Control Board | Unplug your dishwasher for about 10 – 15 minutes. Plug it back in and reboot it. |
| Faulty Float Switch | Make sure that the float switch can move freely. You can also clean the float switch and the water fill reservoir. |
| Clogged or Bent Water Inlet Line | Check that the water supply hose isn’t kinked or twisted. Also, make sure that your dishwasher is using a 3/8 water line. |
| Malfunctioning Water Inlet Valve | Test the water inlet valve for continuity. If the valve is damaged, you’ll need to replace it. |
| Low Drain Hose | Make sure your drain hose has a high enough loop so the water does not go straight to draining. |
Now, we will explore each problem deeper and give you step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot them.
Partially Closed Shut-Off Valve
The shut-off valve is located on the water pipe that goes through the cabinet and into the dishwasher. For safety reasons, this valve is turned off when installing or repairing your dishwasher.
It is possible that the valve has been left closed or only partially opened after the installation or repair. This will stop or restrict the water from coming in, hence the low water supply.
Solution: Make sure that the water supply valve is fully open. Do this by turning the valve counterclockwise and opening it.
You should also inspect the water pipes for clogs to make sure that nothing is blocking the water from getting into your dishwasher.
Low Water Pressure
Another possible reason your dishwasher isn’t getting enough water is that you have low water pressure at home.
This may be caused by clogged, leaking, corroded pipes or ongoing construction nearby. You should also consider the possibility that your water supplier is having an issue.
Solution: Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances and check your home’s water pressure using a pressure gauge.
Generally, households should have water pressure between 30 to 80 psi. Since dishwashers need around 20 to 40 psi, check if your water pressure is strong enough to meet the requirements.
It’s best to call a plumber for help if you have issues with your water supply pipes at home.
Malfunctioning Control Board
A dishwasher’s control board is built to only carry out simple commands. Hence, it is prone to malfunction or breakdown due to wiring issues.
This is usually caused by damage from mishandling or sudden power surges after a blackout.
If the control board malfunctions, it may misread signals sent by the sensors and display false errors on the panel.
Solution: If there is no visible damage to the control board, simply reboot it by unplugging your dishwasher for 10 – 15 minutes and turning it back on. This should flush out any misread signals or residual commands.
However, if you see some burnt wires or damaged parts in the control board, it would be best to call a professional to diagnose and fix it for you.
Faulty Float Switch
The float switch monitors the amount of water inside your dishwasher. When it reaches a preset level, the switch sends a signal to stop the water from coming in and prevent your tub from flooding.
Alternatively, if the switch detects that there is not enough water to do the cycle, it sends out the 9E error code in the display.
One of the most common reasons the switch malfunctions is because the float assembly is clogged by food waste and other foreign debris.
If this happens, the floater inside your dishwasher may be stuck, preventing it from moving up and down freely.
Another reason is that the float switch itself is damaged. This will cause your dishwasher to fill with too much water or none at all.
Solution: First, locate the float assembly in your Samsung dishwasher.
In most models, it is located directly beneath the floater at the bottom right side of the tub. Some install it on the left side of the dishwasher, just behind the air vent.
If you’re unsure how to access it, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Unplug your dishwasher.
- Step 2: Remove the outer door panel and disconnect the user interface wire from the control. Pull out the door carefully and set it aside.
- Step 3: Remove the kick panel on the bottom of your dishwasher by unthreading the screws.
- Step 4: Release the left locking tab on the housing of the float switch and open the left side panel.
- Step 5: Unplug the wire harness from the connector.
- Step 6: Open the right panel by releasing the right locking tab. Remove the float switch.
Next, clean the entire assembly and make sure that the floater is able to move freely.
You should also test the float switch for continuity. If the float switch is damaged, you can easily install a new one after you have accessed its housing unit.
Clogged or Bent Water Inlet Line
The water inlet line plays an important role in supplying water to your dishwasher. However, it is possible for the inlet line to be clogged or twisted due to an installation mistake.
It is also likely that the hose you are using is smaller than the standard size. Samsung dishwashers need a 3/8 line to receive the right amount of water pressure and supply.
Solution: Check your water supply line and make sure that you are using the right size of hose. Then inspect it for any bends or kinks and straighten the hose out when necessary.
If the hose is not pinched or bent, check it for clogging. It’s possible that the hose is clogged by water deposits from your supply or the mesh filter in the inlet valve is too dirty.
To do this, disconnect the water inlet hose from your dishwasher. Make sure to have a pan or towel handy to catch the spilling water.
If the water pressure is lower than normal, this means that something is clogging the hose. Turn off the water supply valve and be sure to remove any debris that is restricting the flow of water.
Also, take out the mesh filter that is in between the water supply hose and inlet valve using a pair of pliers. Then gently clean it in running water and remove all the filtered dirt.
Malfunctioning Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is responsible for letting the water inside your dishwasher. When it receives an electrical signal that the water is enough, it cuts the water supply off to prevent an over-level error.
However, a faulty valve could be stuck in a closed position, cutting the water supply low.
Like other dishwasher components, the inlet valve is also vulnerable to clogging from water deposits, minerals, or debris.
It is also possible that the inlet seal and solenoid are failing. This will cause the water to leak outside the dishwasher or shut the entry port off.
Solution: First, remove the kick panel below the dishwasher to access the water inlet valve. Next, detach the wires connected to it using a pair of pliers.
Check for clogs and clean any food residue or debris in the valve without disassembling it.
To make sure that the valve is working properly, you can use an ohmmeter to test it. You’ll know that the inlet solenoids have failed if the meter reads infinity.
Unfortunately, you can’t repair a faulty water inlet valve. So once it’s damaged, you’ll need to buy and reinstall a new one.
Most of the troubleshooting methods mentioned above can be DIYed.
But if the steps are a little too overwhelming, you can always call for a professional appliance repair service for help.
