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Source-backed error-code guide

Reviewed

Samsung Microwave -SE- / SE Error Code

The SE family points to a control-key condition. Samsung recommends a power cycle first and notes that moisture around the electronics can sometimes contribute to microwave error displays. If SE returns, service is required rather than opening the controls.

Applies to Samsung microwave oven with an applicable electronic display

What the appliance detected

Detected condition

Samsung identifies -SE- as a key-short error.

What may contribute

Possible causes

  • A control key may be electrically detected as shorted.
  • Moisture or steam may be affecting the control electronics.
  • The keypad, user interface, wiring, or electronic control may require professional diagnosis.

Start conservatively

Safe preliminary checks

Work in order and stop whenever a step is not supported by the documentation for your model.

  1. Record the code and model before resetting

    • Photograph or write down the exact display, including punctuation and capitalization: -SE-, SE.
    • Confirm the complete Samsung model code and use its user manual to verify the display applies to that microwave.

  2. Disconnect power and consider recent moisture

    • Samsung says to unplug the microwave or switch its circuit breaker off before the reset attempt. Do not remove the outer cabinet or any service panel.
    • If steam, a spill, or cleaning moisture recently reached the controls, leave the microwave powered off and allow the exterior controls to dry naturally. Do not use a heat gun, hair dryer, compressed air, or liquid cleaner inside control openings.

  3. Try the Samsung reset once

    • If there is no smoke, burning odor, arcing, visible damage, or wet electrical condition, wait at least 60 seconds with power disconnected and then restore power once.
    • If the code returns, stop using the microwave and request service rather than repeating resets.

Actions not recommended

  • Do not remove the microwave cabinet, control panel, waveguide cover, magnetron cover, or other service panels.
  • Do not touch or test the high-voltage capacitor, transformer, inverter, magnetron, door-interlock wiring, or internal fuses. A microwave can retain dangerous voltage after it is unplugged.
  • Do not bypass, defeat, tape, bridge, or adjust door-interlock switches or operate the microwave with a damaged or misaligned door.
  • Do not perform live-voltage, resistance, continuity, or capacitor-discharge procedures as a homeowner troubleshooting step.
  • Do not keep using the microwave if the code returns after the single documented reset.

When to stop and request service

  • Request service if a key is stuck, physically damaged, or responds abnormally after the exterior is dry.
  • Request qualified microwave service if the code returns after the single Samsung power reset.
  • Stop immediately and leave power disconnected for smoke, a burning odor, repeated arcing, visible wiring or door damage, a repeated breaker trip, or any wet-electrical condition.

Documented source

Official information reviewed

Our summary is based on manufacturer support material and stays within the limits of that material.

Source reviewed by Appliance Help HQ: September 23, 2026.

Appliance Help HQ is an independent informational site and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Samsung.

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