NF means "No Flow" — your washer detected that water isn't reaching the drum

When your Samsung washer displays NF, the machine has stopped mid-cycle because it sensed no water flowing into the tub. This is a safety feature: the washer won't spin or heat without water present. The problem could be as straightforward as a kinked hose or as involved as a failed inlet valve, but the code itself just tells you water isn't getting through.

The NF code appears on both top-load and front-load Samsung models. Some older machines may show E7 or 5E instead, but they mean the same thing. Your washer will pause the cycle and wait — it won't drain or spin until you fix the water supply.

Key Takeaways

  • NF means water is not flowing into the drum, and your washer has paused to prevent damage.
  • Start by checking that both hot and cold water valves behind the washer are fully open, and that hoses are not kinked or frozen.
  • If water flows from the hoses when you disconnect them, the problem is inside the washer — likely the inlet valve or filter screen.
  • A clogged inlet filter screen is the most common cause and takes 10 to 15 minutes to clean.
  • If the inlet valve itself has failed, you will need to replace it, which usually requires removing the front or top panel.

Check the water supply first — it's the fastest fix

Before you assume the washer is broken, verify that water is actually reaching it. Walk behind your washer and look at the two valves where the hoses connect — one for hot water, one for cold. They should be turned all the way to the right (clockwise). If either is partially closed, turn it fully open and restart the wash cycle.

Next, inspect both hoses for kinks, cracks, or ice. If you live somewhere cold and the washer sits against an outside wall, frozen hoses are a real possibility in winter. Straighten any kinks by hand. If a hose is cracked, you'll need to replace it — water will leak out when you turn the valves back on, so have towels ready.

Disconnect one hose at a time (turn off the valves first) and hold it over a bucket. Turn the valve back on briefly. If water flows freely, that hose is clear. If water trickles or doesn't flow, the hose itself is clogged — this is rare but happens if sediment builds up inside. Replace the hose if this occurs.

Clean the inlet filter screen inside the washer

If water reaches the hoses but the NF code persists, the problem is inside the washer. The most common culprit is a clogged inlet filter screen — a small mesh screen that catches sediment before water enters the drum. Sediment from old pipes or mineral buildup can block it completely.

To access the inlet filter, turn off and unplug the washer. Disconnect both water hoses from the back of the machine. Inside each connection point, you'll see a small screen (about the size of a dime). Use needle-nose pliers or a small brush to gently pull out the screen and rinse it under running water. Brush away any sediment or mineral deposits. Reinstall the screens, reconnect the hoses, plug in the washer, and try a cycle.

This fix works about 60 percent of the time when the water supply itself is fine. It takes 10 to 15 minutes and costs nothing.

Test the inlet valve if the filter screen is clean

If the inlet filter screen is clear and water still won't flow, the inlet valve itself has likely failed. This valve opens and closes to let water into the drum. When it fails, it stays closed even when the washer signals it to open.

You can test this by listening: start a wash cycle and listen closely at the back of the washer. You should hear a clicking sound as the valve tries to open. If you hear nothing, the valve is dead. If you hear clicking but no water flows, the valve coil has failed.

Replacing the inlet valve requires removing either the front or top panel (depending on your model) and unbolting the valve from the water inlet. This is a 30-minute to 1-hour job if you're comfortable with basic tools. Inlet valves cost between $40 and $120 depending on the model. If you're not comfortable opening the machine, a service technician can do this for $150 to $300 including the part.

Rule out pressure switches and wiring problems

In rare cases, the NF code appears even though water is flowing normally. This usually means the washer's pressure switch — the sensor that detects water level — is faulty, or there's a wiring problem between the sensor and the control board.

If you've confirmed that water reaches the hoses and the inlet filter is clean, but the code still appears, the washer likely needs a technician. Pressure switches and wiring faults require specialized diagnostic tools and are not practical for a home repair.

Drain the washer before you start any repair

Before you disconnect hoses or open the machine, drain any water inside. Most Samsung washers have a drain plug or drain hose at the bottom front. Locate it, place a bucket underneath, and open it. Let the water drain completely — this prevents flooding when you disconnect the inlet hoses.

If your model doesn't have an accessible drain plug, run a drain-only cycle (if the machine will let you) or use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water from the drum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my washer drain on its own if it shows NF?

No. The NF code means the washer has paused because it detected no water flow. It will not drain, spin, or proceed until water is restored or you manually drain it. You must drain the tub yourself before opening the machine for repairs.

Can I use the washer if I ignore the NF code?

No. The washer will not complete the cycle. It will sit paused indefinitely. Ignoring it won't make it go away — you have to fix the water supply or call a technician.

Is NF the same as a leak?

No. NF means water isn't getting in. A leak means water is getting in but escaping somewhere it shouldn't. If your washer is leaking, you'll see water pooling underneath or around it. NF and leaks are separate problems with different causes.

How much does it cost to fix an NF error?

If it's a kinked hose or clogged filter screen, it's free — just your time. If the inlet valve needs replacing, the part costs $40 to $120 and a technician visit runs $150 to $300. If it's a pressure switch or wiring issue, expect $200 to $400 for a service call and repair.

Can I replace the inlet valve myself?

Yes, if you're comfortable removing panels and unbolting parts. The valve itself is straightforward to swap, but you need to access it first, which varies by model. Watch a video for your specific model number before you start. If you're unsure, a technician is safer and faster.