Samsung dishwashers will display an error code on the front panel when a problem needs to be addressed. One of the most common codes that users have reported encountering is the LC code; this means that the leak sensor has detected moisture inside the machine.
When this happens, the dishwasher won’t turn off and will attempt to continually drain itself until no more water is detected. Not only is this troublesome to deal with, but it may also indicate a leak somewhere that needs to be addressed.
While this code can seem intimidating, don’t worry! The problem is usually easily fixable.
So in this article, I will explain exactly what causes this code to appear, how to get rid of it, and how to prevent it from coming back in the future.
What Causes Samsung Dishwasher LC Code
An LC code simply means moisture has been detected, but this doesn’t always mean a leak.
Sometimes the sensor can go faulty, or it may be something as benign as water being accidentally splashed nearby the moisture sensor.
So let’s first walk through all the potential causes of this problem so you can better diagnose what’s going on with your dishwasher.
1. The Wrong Kind of Detergent is Being Used
Dishwashers need to use detergent brands that are specifically formulated for dishwashers. This is because the amount of suds that are formed and the chemical balance need to work with the cleaning method dishwashers utilize.
While using a cheaper non-dishwasher detergent product may be tempting, this can cause excessive suds to form, which will build up and trigger the moisture sensor to display the LC code.
2. The Dishwasher has Been Moved
Even when dishwashers are switched off, they may sometimes retain a certain amount of water inside them. So if the dishwasher is moved to a new location, that retained water may splash around inside of the machine and set off the moisture sensor.
You’ll need to wait for the water around this sensor to dry before the code disappears.
3. The Drain Hose is Clogged
The dirty water will exit the washer through the drain hose and into the garbage disposal.
As small pieces of food debris will also pass down this hose, an obstruction may form over time, which prevents the water from draining away properly and may even cause water to back up into the machine, causing a leak.
4. The Leak Sensor is Faulty
The moisture sensor in a dishwasher can be pretty sensitive and prone to becoming damaged or faulty. When this happens, it may cause a false positive and display the LC code even though no actual leak is present.
The only solution is to replace the faulty sensor with a new one.
5. A Water Inlet Valve Problem
The water inlet valve is a small valve that opens to allow water to flow into the dishwasher when it needs more water.
Sometimes these valves can become faulty and allow too much water to flow into the machine, triggering the moisture sensor and potentially causing a leak.
6. The Water Supply Hose or Drain Hose is Damaged
Water is supplied to the dishwasher through the drain hose, and the dirty water is expelled via the drain hose. If either of these hoses becomes cracked or damaged, it may cause a leak.
So both hoses need to be carefully inspected for visible leaks, and if anything is found to be damaged, it should be fixed or replaced.
7. A Door Gasket Failure
Dishwasher doors utilize a door seal or door gasket to create a water-tight seal around the frame while in operation so water doesn’t leak out and make a mess.
Sometimes these gaskets can become damaged or cracked, which will cause water to leak out from around the door. When this happens, the door gasket will need to be replaced.
8. The Dishwasher Isn’t Level
Dishwashers need to be completely level with the floor so water can drain away properly and not leak out. If your dishwasher isn’t leveled properly, it may cause water to spill out or sit in the machine after the wash cycle is finished.
How to Fix Samsung Dishwasher LC Error Code
As you can see, this code is most commonly triggered by a blockage that causes water to leak from the machine.
Let’s now take a look at how to get these problems fixed and restore your dishwasher to working order.
1. Ensure you’re Using the Right Detergent
The first thing to do is ensure you are only using detergent, which is safe for use with a dishwasher, as it will cause excessive suds to form, triggering the LC code.
Additionally, while it’s easy to think that using more detergent will result in cleaner dishes, this usually causes more problems, so you should only use the amount specified on the packaging.
2. Give the Dishwasher Time to Dry Out
If you have recently moved the dishwasher or believe that water may have been splashed near the sensor recently, all you need to do is wait a few hours for the machine to dry out and see if it will work again.
You may consider keeping the dishwasher door slightly cracked to help the air dry it out faster.
3. Clean Out the Drain Hose
When the drain hose is clogged, it may cause water to back up into the machine or even leak out. Fortunately, these hoses are quite easy to clean out.
Start by removing the hose from the dishwasher and taking it to the sink. Mix a solution of equal parts baking soda and vinegar and pour it down the hose; give it 15 minutes to sit and break down the built-up debris, then rinse it with water.
If the blockage is more severe, you may need to use a bent wire hanger or a pipe cleaner to push the blockage out of the hose manually.
4. Replace the Faulty Water Leakage Sensor
Sometimes leak sensors become faulty and throw up the LC code even when there’s no actual leak. When this happens, the faulty sensor will need to be replaced with a new one.
- Start by unplugging the dishwasher from the power supply.
- Remove the bottom tray and remove the screws to detach it from the machine.
- Locate the water leak sensor (refer to the user manual if unsure of its location) and disconnect it from the dishwasher. This can just be discarded.
- Plug the new water sensor in its place and re-attach the bottom tray.
- Power the machine back up and test to see if the LC code is now fixed.
5. Replace the Faulty Water Inlet Valve
Once the inlet valve allows water to leak into the dishwasher, it must be replaced to fix the LC code.
- Start by unplugging the dishwasher from the power supply and turn off the water lines.
- Remove the front cover of the dishwasher and remove the two screws holding the door in place.
- For the majority of Samsung dishwasher models, the water inlet valve will be located at the bottom of the machine.
- Remove the hose from the inlet valve and the fitting which holds it in place.
- Unscrew the old water valve and remove the electrical harness.
- The faulty inlet valve should now be free; this can be discarded.
- Install the new valve by reversing this process. Be sure to check closely for visible leaks the first time you start the washer and address them as needed.
6. Replace the Damaged Drain Hose
All hoses attached to the dishwasher should be carefully inspected for cracks or damage which will allow water to leak out.
If the dishwasher drain hose is found to be damaged, then it should be replaced with a new one. These can be found at most home goods department stores.
7. Fix the Door Gasket
Water will seep out when the door gasket cannot create a tight seal. The door gasket should be inspected carefully for damage or cracks which prevent it from sitting flush against the dishwasher frame; if any are found, this should be replaced with a new one.
However, sometimes there is just a piece of food stuck on there, which is breaching the seal; if this is the case, you can just clean the gasket thoroughly with an all-purpose cleaner.
8. Level the Dishwasher
The dishwasher must be completely level with the floor for the water to drain properly. Using a spirit level, check the level of the dishwasher; if any corners need raising, you can adjust the height of the machine by turning the legs in each corner.
Adjust as needed until it’s completely level.
Preventing Samsung Dishwasher LC Code
Once all these issues have been addressed, your dishwasher should no longer display the LC code.
To prevent this code from returning in the future, you should always use the right type and amount of detergent your dishwasher requires and keep the machine clean to prevent blockages from forming.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
