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Samsung Dishwasher LC Error Code
Leak sensor triggered
What's going on
The LC code on a Samsung dishwasher means the leak sensor has detected water where it shouldn't be, usually in the base under the tub. The dishwasher typically stops washing and may run its drain pump to protect your floor. Turn it off, check for obvious causes like suds or a loose spill, and call a technician if the code keeps coming back.
Many dishwashers have a shallow tray in the base under the tub. A small sensor or float sits in that tray. If water collects there, the sensor trips and the control shows LC.
This matters because water in the base means it got out of the tub somewhere. Left alone, a leak can damage your floor, cabinets, or subfloor. The code is a warning to find the leak before it gets worse.
Error codes can mean slightly different things on different model generations. Check your model number against your owner's manual to confirm.
Likely causes
- leak source — Water is escaping the tub from a worn door gasket, loose hose connection, cracked part, or too many suds. That water drips into the base and sets off the sensor.
- sensor — The leak sensor itself can be faulty or stay triggered after the leak is gone. This can make the code show even when the base is dry.
The same code can mean different things on different model generations. Check the model number on your dishwasher's rating plate before ordering parts.
Can you fix it yourself?
Hard to do yourself. Most people end up calling a technician.
Safe things to check first
- Turn the dishwasher off and unplug it or switch off its breaker before you touch anything inside it.
- Look at the floor in front of and around the dishwasher for water, and wipe up any you find.
- Check whether you used regular dish soap or too much detergent. Extra suds can overflow and trigger the leak sensor. Use only dishwasher detergent in the right amount.
- Open the door and look at the rubber door seal for tears, food buildup, or spots where it has pulled loose. Make sure nothing like a pan handle is keeping the door from sealing.
When to call a technician
Call a qualified appliance technician if you see water under the dishwasher, the code returns after a wash, or you can't find an obvious cause like suds. Finding and fixing the leak usually means removing panels, so most people leave it to a technician.
What the repair usually costs
This is not a quote. Prices vary by region and by model.
Repair or replace?
Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new dishwasher.
A typical new dishwasher costs about $800–$1,200.
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Common questions
- What does LC mean on a Samsung dishwasher?
- LC means: Leak sensor triggered. The most likely parts involved are leak source, sensor.
- How much does it cost to fix LC?
- A typical leak repair costs about $50–$300 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.
- Should I repair or replace my dishwasher?
- Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new dishwasher.
- Can I fix LC myself?
- Hard to do yourself. Most people end up calling a technician.
- Can I keep using my dishwasher with the LC code?
- It's best not to. The code means water is getting where it shouldn't, and running more cycles can make the leak and any floor damage worse. Find the cause first.
- Why does the LC code come back after I reset the dishwasher?
- Water may still be sitting in the base, so the sensor stays triggered. It can also mean the leak is still happening or the sensor is faulty. If it keeps coming back, have the dishwasher checked.