Samsung washer — Error Code LC

What it means

The LC (Leakage Check) error code on a Samsung washer is triggered when the main control board (PCB) receives a continuous fault signal from the leak sensor located in the bottom base pan of the unit. It can also be triggered if the pressure switch (water level sensor) detects an unexpected, rapid drop in water level during a wash cycle without the drain pump being activated. When moisture bridges the electrical contacts on the base pan leak sensor, it alters the DC voltage returning to the control board. The PCB immediately halts the cycle, displays the LC code, and activates the drain pump to evacuate water and prevent property flooding. This is a critical safety fault. It rarely indicates a sensor failure; in the vast majority of cases, there is an actual physical leak inside the cabinet. Common culprits include a torn door boot seal, a cracked drain pump housing, loose internal hose clamps, or a severe oversudsing condition that causes water to overflow the tub vent. Proper diagnosis requires pinpointing the exact source of the moisture.

Likely Causes

1. 1
   Oversudsing / HE Detergent Misuse

   Excessive suds from using non-HE detergent or using too much detergent can overflow the tub vent and drip down into the base pan, triggering the leak sensor.
2. 2
   Torn Door Boot Seal

   A rip, puncture, or heavy mildew degradation in the rubber door gasket allows water to run down the inside of the front panel and pool in the base.
3. 3
   Leaking Drain Pump or Filter

   A cracked pump housing, worn impeller seal, or an improperly tightened debris filter can leak water directly onto the base pan during the drain cycle.
4. 4
   Loose Internal Hoses

   Vibrations can loosen the clamps on the tub-to-pump hose, the dispenser hoses, or the water inlet hoses, causing slow drips during fill or drain phases.
5. 5
   Faulty Leak Sensor

   If the base pan is completely dry but the code persists, the sensor itself may be shorted or the wiring harness leading back to the control board may be damaged.

How to clear / reset

To temporarily clear the LC error code, you must disconnect power to the washer by unplugging it or flipping the breaker for 5 minutes. However, because the LC code is tied to a physical moisture sensor, the code will immediately return upon power-up if the base pan is still wet. You must remove the lower access panel or safely tilt the washer back to inspect and dry the base pan completely using a towel or wet vac. Once the sensor contacts are dry, the board will reset. If the root leak is not fixed, the code will return during the next cycle.

Common replacement parts

FAQs