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E101 • Samsung • WindFree / EHS / DVM

Fault Code E101 Samsung: Communication Fault (Indoor/Outdoor)

Code E101 (sometimes displayed as E1-01) is one of the most common. It indicates that the indoor unit has not received a response from the outdoor unit for more than 2 minutes. This is a serial link fault.

Proof status : Manufacturer reference needed for the exact range

Source: Samsung Service Manual - RAC & FJM Series

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In brief

Fault code E101 on Samsung WindFree / EHS / DVM means: Code E101 (sometimes displayed as E1-01) is one of the most common. It indicates that the indoor unit has not received a response from the outdoor unit for more than 2 minutes. This is a serial link fault. Most common cause: Communication cable (F1/F2) cut or loose, phase/neutral reversal (on some models), outdoor unit without power, or faulty PCB. First action: Check that the outdoor unit's circuit breaker is on (often separate from the indoor unit).. Call a registered engineer if the fault returns after basic checks or involves refrigerant work (F-Gas registered engineer required).

According to the Samsung Service Manual, the E101 fault code indicates a serial link failure where the indoor unit receives no response from the outdoor unit for over 2 minutes.

What does fault code E101 on Samsung mean?

Code E101 (sometimes displayed as E1-01) is one of the most common. It indicates that the indoor unit has not received a response from the outdoor unit for more than 2 minutes. This is a serial link fault.

Communication cable (F1/F2) cut or loose, phase/neutral reversal (on some models), outdoor unit without power, or faulty PCB.

Symptoms

  • LEDs flashing on the indoor unit
  • Indoor unit blows air but does not heat/cool
  • E101 code steady or flashing on the wired remote controller

Diagnosis

1. Check outdoor power supply

  • Check that the outdoor unit's circuit breaker is on (often separate from the indoor unit).
  • Measure voltage at the outdoor unit's L/N terminals.

2. Check F1/F2 communication bus

  • Check tightness of cables on F1 and F2 terminals (indoor and outdoor).
  • Measure voltage between F1 and F2: it should fluctuate (data signal) between 0.5V DC and 5V DC (or +/- depending on model). If 0V or steady, cable or board problem.

Repair and return to service — Samsung fault E101

Restore power to the outdoor unit or repair the communication cable. If the wiring is perfect, the PCB (outdoor main board) often needs replacing.

When should you call an F-Gas engineer?

Contact an F-Gas registered engineer if the fault returns after basic checks, involves refrigerant charging, or requires PCB or compressor replacement on Samsung WindFree / EHS / DVM.

Affected models

  • Multi Split
  • WindFree

Field context

First start-up or after extending a multi-split installation.

Frequently asked questions

E101 appears after a power cut, what should I do?

Turn everything off (indoor and outdoor circuit breakers) for 5 minutes, then turn on the outdoor unit first, then the indoor unit.

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