Samsung TV Error Code SUM: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
SUM
Brand
Samsung TV
Product Type
smart_tv
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
The Samsung TV error code SUM appears when your Samsung Universal Remote (SUM) is having trouble pairing or communicating with your Samsung TV. This typically means the remote and TV have lost their Bluetooth or infrared connection, or the pairing process needs to be restarted. The good news is that this is a medium-severity issue you can usually resolve at home in just a few minutes without any tools.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code SUM

  1. Check and Replace Remote Batteries

    Always use the battery type specified on your remote. Mixing old and new batteries or using non-alkaline batteries can cause poor performance and may damage the remote.

  2. Power Cycle Your Samsung TV

    Do not unplug the TV while it is actively performing a software update, as this can corrupt the TV's firmware.

  3. Re-Pair the Samsung Universal Remote Manually

  4. Use the SmartThings App as a Temporary Remote

  5. Reset the Remote Pairing via TV Settings

  6. Check for Infrared or Bluetooth Obstructions

  7. Update Your Samsung TV's Firmware

    Do not turn off or unplug your TV during a firmware update. Interrupting the update can cause serious software problems that may require a service technician to repair.

  8. Factory Reset the Samsung TV (Last Resort)

    A factory reset will erase all your apps, saved accounts, custom settings, and channel lists. Make note of your settings and app login credentials before proceeding.

Parts You May Need

AA or AAA Alkaline Batteries
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Samsung Universal Remote Control (replacement)
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AA or AAA Alkaline Batteries
Check Price on Amazon
Samsung Universal Remote Control (replacement)
Check Price on Amazon
AA or AAA Alkaline Batteries
Check Price on Amazon
Samsung Universal Remote Control (replacement)
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all steps above — including fresh batteries, power cycling, manual re-pairing, firmware update, and factory reset — and the Samsung Universal Remote still fails to pair and displays the SUM error, the remote itself or the TV's IR/Bluetooth receiver hardware may be defective. Contact Samsung Support at 1-800-SAMSUNG or visit samsung.com/us/support to arrange a warranty repair or replacement. If your TV is out of warranty, a certified Samsung service technician can diagnose whether the internal IR sensor or mainboard needs to be replaced. Do not attempt to open or repair the TV's internal components yourself, as this voids your warranty and poses an electric shock hazard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the SUM code mean on a Samsung TV?
SUM stands for Samsung Universal Remote. When this code appears, it means your TV is having trouble pairing or communicating with the Samsung Universal Remote. This is usually caused by dead batteries, a lost Bluetooth or IR connection, or a software glitch that can be fixed by re-pairing the remote through your TV's settings.
How do I pair my Samsung Universal Remote to my TV again?
Point the remote directly at your TV and press and hold the 'Return' and 'Play/Pause' buttons at the same time for about 3 seconds. Your TV should show an on-screen prompt confirming it detected the remote. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete pairing. If that does not work, go to Settings > General > External Device Manager > Universal Remote Setup on your TV.
Why does my Samsung remote keep losing pairing?
Repeated pairing loss is usually caused by weak batteries, a TV firmware bug, or signal interference from other devices. Start by replacing the batteries with fresh alkaline batteries. Then update your TV's firmware via Settings > Support > Software Update. Make sure no objects are blocking the TV's IR sensor and that the remote is within range.
Can I control my Samsung TV without the Universal Remote while fixing the SUM error?
Yes. Download the Samsung SmartThings app on your iOS or Android smartphone. Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV, add the TV as a device in the app, and use the in-app remote to navigate your TV's settings. This lets you complete the re-pairing process or adjust settings even if your physical remote is not working.
Will a factory reset fix the Samsung TV SUM remote pairing error?
A factory reset can fix the SUM error if it is caused by corrupted pairing data or a software glitch that other steps could not resolve. However, it should be your last resort because it erases all your apps, accounts, and settings. Try replacing batteries, power cycling, and manual re-pairing before doing a factory reset. To reset, go to Settings > General > Reset and enter your PIN (default: 0000).

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