Written by
Nadia Okafor Appliance Care EditorPublished October 26, 2026
VERIFIED
Error codeE-81 (E81)
ApplianceMicrowave
About E-81
Communication open error: that is the label Samsung puts on E-81 (or E81) in the table for current microwaves.
Reset routine
Pull the plug or turn off the breaker.
Wait for drying if there was moisture; wait 60 seconds if there was not.
Turn power on and check the screen.
If E-81 appears again
The next step on Samsung’s list is to request service. Work inside the microwave is for a technician.
Nearby codes
Easily mixed up with it: E-82 (communication short error), E-83 (communication error), E-X1 (additional open error) and E-71 (steam sensor open error).
Samsung microwave service in San Francisco
If the code survives the reset, ring (415) 969-6153. The call covers San Francisco and the Bay Area, and it helps to have the model number plus your reset steps ready. More at Samsung microwave repair.
Model compatibility: Samsung reuses codes across series and model years, so E-81 (E81) may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
E-81 is Samsung's microwave code for a communication open error.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your Samsung appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
You submit a request with your appliance model and symptom, we confirm an appointment window, and a technician performs an on-site diagnosis. You then receive a clear estimate and decide whether to proceed before any repair begins.
Yes. We provide an upfront estimate after diagnosis. No parts are ordered or installed until you approve the work, so there are no surprise charges.
Replacement parts are selected for the exact model and confirmed with you before ordering or installation.
Service areas are listed on the Locations page. Contact us with your ZIP code to confirm current coverage for your address.
Ready to get your Samsung appliance working again?
Book a repair online or call us — clear estimates and approval before any repair work begins.
