Samsung Washer UB Error Code — What It Means
The UB error (sometimes displayed as U6 or 1U6) means your Samsung washer has detected an unbalanced load. The laundry inside the drum is distributed unevenly, so the machine cannot spin safely at high speed. You may also see Ur, which is an unbalanced load retry condition tied to the same issue. The washer stops the cycle to protect itself and your floor from excessive vibration or damage. In most cases, the problem is simply how the clothes are arranged or how much you loaded, not a mechanical fault.
Common Causes
- Laundry bunched or tangled together Wet items clump in one area of the drum during agitation and throw off the spin balance.
- Overloading the washer Too many items, especially heavy or bulky loads like comforters, blankets, towels, rugs, or coats, prevent even distribution.
- Mixed heavy and light items Combining towels with delicates or other uneven weights causes the load to shift unevenly during spin.
- Washer not level If the cabinet rocks or sits unevenly on the floor, even a balanced load will trigger the error.
- Worn suspension components If UB returns on normal loads, shocks, dampers, springs, or other tub support parts may be damaged or worn out.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Stop the cycle and open the washer. Pull out the laundry and untangle any clumped or twisted items, then spread them evenly around the drum.
- Remove some items if overloaded. Cut the load size by a third, especially if washing bulky or heavy articles, and run those items in a separate cycle.
- Check that the washer is level. Rock the cabinet gently from corner to corner. If it moves, adjust the leveling legs or feet until the machine sits flat and stable on the floor.
- Power-cycle the washer. Unplug the machine or turn off the circuit breaker for 60 seconds, then restore power. Samsung also recommends touching every button on the control panel once to complete the reset.
- Restart the cycle. Close the door and run a spin or drain-and-spin cycle to confirm the load now spins without error.
- Inspect suspension hardware if UB persists. With power off, tilt or open the cabinet and check shock absorbers, dampers, suspension springs, and tub support brackets for damage, looseness, or loss of damping.
- Replace failed suspension parts. Install new shocks, springs, or support components as needed, then test the washer with a balanced load to verify the repair.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Shock absorber / damper kit | Amazon | Replace if the tub oscillates excessively or you see fluid leaks or broken mounts. |
| Suspension springs or straps | Amazon | Order the set that matches your model if springs are stretched, broken, or detached. |
| Leveling legs / adjustable feet | Amazon | Replace if threads are stripped or the leg will not hold the cabinet stable. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a pro if the UB code returns repeatedly on small, balanced loads even after you have leveled the washer and reset the controls. Persistent errors usually mean internal suspension or tub support parts have failed, and diagnosing which components are worn requires disassembly and inspection. A qualified appliance technician can test shock absorbers, springs, and related hardware, then replace only the parts that have lost function. Also call for help if you are not comfortable tilting or opening the cabinet, or if the washer is still under warranty.