Samsung washer — Error Code LC

What it means

The LC (Leakage Check) error on a Samsung washing machine occurs when the main control board (PCB) detects a persistent fault signal originating from the leak sensor situated in the lower base pan. This code can also be triggered if the pressure switch (water level sensor) registers a sudden, unexplained drop in water volume during a cycle without the drain pump having been engaged. When moisture creates a bridge across the leak sensor's electrical contacts, it modifies the DC voltage sent to the PCB. The control board then halts operations, flashes the LC code, and engages the drain pump to remove water and avoid flooding your laundry room. This is a vital safety feature. It is rarely a case of a broken sensor; usually, there is a genuine water leak inside the chassis. Common culprits include a damaged door boot seal, a fractured drain pump housing, loose hose clamps, or excessive sudsing that forces water over the tub vent. Pinpointing the exact moisture source is essential for a proper fix.

Likely Causes

1. 1
   Oversudsing / HE Detergent Misuse

   Using standard detergent instead of HE, or simply over-dosing, creates a massive amount of suds. These can spill over the tub vent, drip into the base pan, and trip the sensor.
2. 2
   Torn Door Boot Seal

   If the rubber door gasket has punctures, tears, or has degraded due to age or mildew, water can escape down the front panel and accumulate in the base.
3. 3
   Leaking Drain Pump or Filter

   A cracked pump casing, a worn-out impeller seal, or a debris filter that isn't seated correctly can cause water to drip onto the base pan during the drain cycle.
4. 4
   Loose Internal Hoses

   Machine vibrations can eventually loosen the connections on the dispenser hoses, water inlet hoses, or the tub-to-pump hose, resulting in slow leaks during the fill or drain phases.
5. 5
   Faulty Leak Sensor

   In the rare event the base pan is bone dry but the error persists, the sensor itself might be shorted, or the wiring harness connecting it to the PCB could be compromised.

How to clear / reset

To reset the LC code, you need to cut power to the machine by unplugging it or flipping the circuit breaker for 5 minutes. However, because this code is linked to a physical moisture sensor, it will reappear immediately upon startup if the base pan remains damp. You must access the lower panel or carefully tip the washer back to check the base, drying it thoroughly with a towel or a wet-vac. Once the sensor contacts are completely dry, the board should reset. Remember, if the underlying leak isn't repaired, the code will trigger again during your next load.

Common replacement parts

FAQs