Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E106

The E106 error code on a Samsung air conditioner indicates that the indoor unit evaporator inlet (EVAP IN) temperature sensor has physically detached from the refrigerant pipe it is meant to monitor. This sensor is a thermistor clipped or secured directly against the evaporator inlet pipe to measure the temperature of refrigerant entering the evaporator coil. The indoor unit control board uses this temperature reading to regulate cooling operation, manage defrost cycles, and protect the system from abnormal operating conditions. When the sensor loses physical contact with the pipe, it reads ambient air temperature instead of pipe temperature, causing the board to detect a value outside expected parameters and trigger the fault code.

The most common cause of this fault is mechanical separation, meaning the sensor clip, clamp, or foam insulation securing the thermistor to the pipe has loosened, broken, or been disturbed. This can happen during routine filter cleaning, maintenance access, or simply over time due to vibration. In some cases the sensor wire is accidentally dislodged when the unit cover is removed and replaced. Unlike error codes that indicate a failed thermistor, E106 specifically points to a physical positioning problem rather than an electrical resistance fault.

Diagnosis begins with removing the indoor unit front panel and locating the EVAP IN sensor, which is typically a small thermistor bulb pressed against the inlet section of the evaporator coil and held in place by a plastic clip or wrapped with insulating tape. Inspect whether the sensor has pulled away from the pipe surface. If it has, reseat it firmly against the pipe and secure it with the original clip or replacement foam tape. Clear the fault and test operation to confirm the error does not return.