Samsung Washer Error Code SUD

Samsung Washer SUD Error Explained

The SUD error on Samsung washers indicates excessive suds detected in the wash tub. It usually appears when the washer senses too many bubbles or unusually high foam levels and interrupts normal operation to prevent overflow or damage. Common reasons include using too much detergent, using non-HE detergent in a high-efficiency washer, or buildup of leftover soap in the drum and drain system. User impacts range from longer cycle times and poor rinsing to clothes retaining soap, lingering odors, water leaks, and, in rare cases, damage to the drain pump, seals, or electronics if the problem is repeated. The washer attempts to manage suds automatically by adding extra rinses or drainage actions, but persistent suds can prevent proper spinning and rinsing and may require manual intervention or part replacement.

Common Causes

• Overuse of detergent or adding detergent directly on clothes
• Using regular laundry detergent in HE (high-efficiency) washers
• Excess fabric softener or oil-based additives that create persistent foam
• Residual soap build-up in the drum, detergent dispenser, or hoses
• Clogged or partially blocked drain hose or pump filter causing slow drainage
• Faulty or intermittent pressure sensor or water level switch
• Malfunctioning drain pump that cannot remove soapy water fast enough
• Incorrect cycle selection for very soiled loads or bulky items
• Use of concentrated pods or too many pods for the load size
• High-efficiency washer using too much low-sudsing detergent because of a dispenser issue

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Pause the cycle and let the washer drain. If available, run the drain/spin cycle to remove sudsy water.
2. Remove some or all items from the drum and shake excess suds from fabrics into a sink, then place items back in and run an extra rinse/spin.
3. Run an additional rinse and spin cycle to clear remaining soap. Repeat until suds are gone.
4. Clean the detergent dispenser drawer and the area behind it. Old detergent residue can reintroduce suds.
5. Inspect and clean the drain pump filter and drain hose. Clear any lint, coins, or soap scum restricting flow.
6. Verify you are using an HE detergent in the recommended amount for the load size and soil level. Reduce the dosage if loads are small or only lightly soiled.
7. Avoid pouring detergent directly on clothes or into the drum. Use the dispenser and measure according to manufacturer guidelines.
8. Run a tub clean or maintenance cycle with a washer cleaner or a cup of white vinegar followed by baking soda to remove built-up residues.
9. If suds persist after cleaning and proper detergent use, test for slow drainage or pump noises. A failing drain pump may not clear suds fast enough and should be inspected or replaced.
10. If the washer repeatedly shows SUD with correct detergent use, check the water level pressure sensor or pressure switch. Faulty sensors can misdetect suds and may need replacement by a qualified technician.
11. Reset the washer by unplugging it for 1 minute or using the power cycle procedure in the user manual, then run a test load with no detergent to confirm the error is cleared.
12. When in doubt, contact Samsung support or a certified appliance technician, especially if electrical components, pump replacement, or control board diagnostics are required.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Always use HE detergent in HE Samsung washers.
• Measure detergent carefully; follow the detergent maker and washer manual dosing charts.
• Use less detergent for small or lightly soiled loads.
• Do not pour detergent directly onto clothes; use the dispenser drawer.
• Avoid excessive use of fabric softener and oil-based additives that increase foam.
• Run a monthly tub-clean cycle or use a washing machine cleaner to remove residue.
• Inspect and clean the detergent dispenser drawer at least once a month.
• Check and clean the drain pump filter regularly to prevent blockages.
• Ensure the drain hose is installed and routed correctly to avoid slow drainage.
• Do not overload the washer; distribute items evenly to allow good water flow and rinsing.
• Use the correct cycle for the load type; heavy cycles often use more detergent and rinse steps.
• When using concentrated detergent pods, use the recommended number of pods for the load size.
• After heavy or oily loads, run an extra rinse to remove soap and residue.
• Leave the door and dispenser drawer open after washes to let the interior dry and reduce residue buildup.
• Periodically check hoses and connections for soap scum and clean them to maintain flow.
• Follow the washer manual for water hardness guidance—hard water and softeners can affect sudsing.
• Consider an occasional hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar to dissolve built-up detergent.
• Inspect drain lines for kinks or low spots that trap water and soap.
• Use a lint trap where appropriate and keep pockets empty to prevent foreign objects clogging the pump.
• Keep a maintenance log of cleaning and service to catch recurring patterns early.

FAQs

Conclusion & Safety Notice

Addressing a SUD error is often straightforward by reducing detergent, running extra rinses, and cleaning the dispenser and pump. For safety, always unplug the washer before inspecting or removing panels, and avoid DIY electrical repairs unless you are qualified. Call a professional technician if the error persists after basic troubleshooting, if you detect leaks, strange noises from the drain pump, or if components like the pressure sensor or control board may need testing or replacement. Professional diagnosis helps prevent further damage and ensures safe repairs.