Samsung Washer LC Error Code: What It Means & How to Fix It

LC = Water level or leak detected. LC (also 1E/LE) means the washer has picked up moisture somewhere it shouldn't, or the water level sensor is acting up. Before you suspect the sensor, Samsung says to look for small leaks and too many suds.

Can you fix it yourself? Maybe

Also shown as: 1E, LE, 1C, LC1

Check your model: Error codes can mean different things on different Samsung models. Find your model number (usually on a sticker inside the door or lid, or on the back) and confirm the code in your user manual.

Safety first: Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) before you remove panels, filters or hoses. Turn off the water supply valves before you disconnect any hose, and keep a towel and shallow pan handy. Never work on wiring, gas lines or sealed refrigerator systems yourself.

Quick checks (2 minutes)

Any water under or behind the washer?
Are the supply and drain hoses kinked?
Using too much detergent, or detergent that isn't HE?

How to fix Samsung Washer LC

Turn off the water and unplug the washer.
Look carefully for leaks around the hoses, door seal and underneath. A small drip is easy to miss.
Straighten any kinked hoses. Don't remove the screw that holds the drain hose to the back of the washer.
Plug back in and run an empty cycle with no detergent or softener. Watch for suds.
If suds show up, keep running empty cycles until they stop, then try again with less HE detergent.

Still showing LC?

No suds, no leak, and the code keeps coming back? Samsung says to request service, since the water level sensor may need attention.

Likely part if the basics don't fix it:

Check price on Amazon: HE laundry detergent

Repair or replace?

If the appliance is under warranty, call Samsung first, since a repair may be free. Out of warranty, a common rule of thumb is to compare the repair quote with the cost of a new unit and the appliance's age before deciding.

Want a pro to handle it?

Get free quotes from local appliance repair technicians.

FAQ

Can too much detergent cause LC?

Yes. Samsung says suds during an empty cycle mean too much detergent or non-HE detergent was used.

Is 1E the same as LC?

Samsung groups 1E, LE, 1C, LC and LC1 together as the water level/leakage error.

Source

Code meaning and official steps from: https://www.samsung.com/us/support/troubleshoot/TSG10000997/. Last verified 2026-10-21.