Samsung Dishwasher LC Code: Meaning & Fixes
- Meaning
- Leakage error: the leak sensor in the base has detected moisture where it doesn't belong. On Waterwall models a blocked water reflector can also cause it.
- Can I fix it?
- Sometimes, may need a pro
- Also shown as
- LE
- Seen on
- Samsung dishwashers with a digital display. Some models show LE instead of LC; models without a display flash a combination of lights.
LC on a Samsung dishwasher means the leak sensor under the tub has picked up moisture, even if you see no water on the floor. Turn the power off at the breaker first. Then check the supply hose, the door seal and the detergent dose, and give the base time to dry before you restore power.
Try this first
- Turn the dishwasher off at the circuit breaker. With the leak sensor wet, it can keep running its drain pump and won't switch off.
- Look along the water supply hose and both of its connections. If one leaks, close the water supply valve too.
- Use dishwasher detergent only, never hand dish soap, and don't overfill the dispenser.
- On a Waterwall model, make sure no dish or utensil is blocking the water reflector.
- Leave the power off so the base can dry, then restore power and check whether LC comes back.
What causes LC
| Cause | What you notice | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Leaking water supply hose or connection | Water under the front of the unit, or LC with no visible water | The supply hose along its full length and at both ends |
| Wrong or too much detergent | Foam at the door, LC partway through a cycle | The detergent label should say dishwasher; the dispenser should not be overfilled |
| Door seal out of its channel or dirty | Water at the bottom of the door | The rubber gasket around the tub opening |
| Blocked water reflector (Waterwall models) | LC on a Waterwall model with no hose leak | Dishes leaning into the reflector at the back of the tub |
| Garbage disposal cap not removed or unit not level | LC soon after installation or after moving the dishwasher | The disposal inlet knockout and the leveling legs |
Fix it step by step
Tap a step number to tick it off as you go. Ticks stay on this device.
-
Cut the power
Switch the dishwasher's circuit breaker off. If you can see water, also close the water supply valve under the sink.
Safety: Don't touch standing water near the dishwasher while it still has power. Turn the breaker off first.
-
Check the hoses
Inspect the water supply hose at both ends and along its length, and the drain hose where it connects to the house. Tighten or reinstall a loose connection. Samsung recommends a stainless steel supply line over plastic.
-
Check detergent and the door seal
Wipe out any detergent spilled outside the dispenser, since it stays damp longer than water and can trigger the sensor. Push the door gasket back into its channel if it has slipped, and clean it with a towel and mild soap.
-
Check the reflector, level and disposal cap
On Waterwall models, move any dish blocking the water reflector. Make sure the front of the dishwasher isn't lower than the back. If it was just connected to a garbage disposal, confirm the disposal's knockout cap was removed.
-
Let it dry, then test
Leave the power off for several hours so moisture near the sensor can dry, longer if the unit was recently moved. Restore power and run a cycle. Wipe up any water and watch whether it returns.
When to call a technician
Request Samsung service if LC returns after the base has dried and the hoses, detergent and seal check out, if the drain hose leaks anywhere other than its house connection, or if the door gasket is damaged.
Questions people ask
Are LC and LE the same code on a Samsung dishwasher?
Yes. Samsung lists LC and LE together as the leakage error. Which one you see depends on the model.
Why does my Samsung dishwasher show LC when there's no water on the floor?
The sensor sits in the base, under the tub, so water can reach it without showing on the floor. Extra detergent, splashing after a move or a small hose drip are common reasons.
Why won't my Samsung dishwasher turn off with LC?
With the leak sensor wet, the dishwasher keeps itself on until the moisture is gone. Turn it off at the breaker and let it dry.