What does 1C mean on a Samsung washer?

1C means: Water level sensor or leakage error. The most likely parts involved are water level pressure switch (sensor), pressure sensor air tube, leak sensor.

How much does it cost to fix 1C?

A typical leak repair (hoses / pump / seals) costs about $130–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.

Can I keep using my Samsung washer with a 1C code?

It is best not to. The washer may overfill or leak, which can damage your floor. Keep the water supply off until the cause is found and fixed.

Why did the 1C code go away and then come back?

A small leak may dry up between loads, or a loose air tube may only cause trouble at certain water levels. A code that keeps coming back usually means a part needs attention.

Error codes › Washer › Samsung

Samsung Washer 1C Error Code

Water level sensor or leakage error

Applies to: All digital display models. May also appear as 1E, LE, LC1, 1 1C, 1 LC.

What's going on

The 1C code on a Samsung washer means the washer has a problem reading its water level, or it has sensed moisture in the base pan under the tub. It often points to the water level pressure switch, its air tube, or a leak sensor picking up water. Turn off the water supply, check for leaks, and protect your floor before doing anything else.

Your washer uses a water level pressure switch to know how much water is in the tub. As water fills, air is pushed up a thin tube to the switch, and the switch turns that air pressure into a reading. If the reading makes no sense, or the tube is kinked, clogged, or loose, the washer can show 1C.

Some models also have a leak sensor in the base pan under the tub. If water collects there from a leaking hose, pump, or seal, the sensor trips and the washer stops to protect your home. This code is used on Samsung digital display models, but codes can vary between model generations, so confirm the meaning using your model number.

This code matters because a wrong water level can cause overfilling or poor washing, and a real leak can damage floors and the space below. Do not keep running loads until you know where any water is coming from.

Likely causes

water level pressure switch (sensor) — If this sensor fails or gives bad readings, the washer cannot tell how much water is in the tub. The control board then shows 1C and stops the cycle.
pressure sensor air tube — This small tube carries air pressure from the tub to the sensor. A kink, clog, crack, or loose end gives the sensor a false reading and can trigger the code.
leak sensor — Water from a leaking hose, pump, or seal can pool in the base pan and set off the leak sensor. A faulty sensor can also report moisture when there is none.

The same code can mean different things on different model generations. Check the model number on your washer's rating plate before ordering parts.

Can you fix it yourself?

Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.

Safe things to check first

Shut off the water supply valves behind the washer and lay towels down to protect the floor. Look under and around the washer for puddles or drips.
Unplug the washer or switch off its breaker. Then look at the fill hoses on the back for cracks, bulges, or loose fittings at the valves and the washer.
Check the drain hose for kinks or leaks and make sure it is not pushed too far into the standpipe.
With the floor dry and no leaks found, restore water and power, wait a few minutes, and run a short rinse cycle while you watch closely for water or the code returning.

When to call a technician

If you find water inside or under the washer, or the 1C code comes back after a power reset, call a qualified appliance technician. A handy owner could replace the pressure switch or air tube with the right part for their model, but leaks from the pump or seals are usually left to a technician.

What the repair usually costs

$130–$400

Leak repair (hoses / pump / seals), parts and labor — national reference range

Confidence: medium (based on 2 cost guides). Plus a service call fee of about $50–$100, often credited toward the repair.

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 washer.

A typical new washer costs about $700–$1,300.

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Common questions

What does 1C mean on a Samsung washer?: 1C means: Water level sensor or leakage error. The most likely parts involved are water level pressure switch (sensor), pressure sensor air tube, leak sensor.
How much does it cost to fix 1C?: A typical leak repair (hoses / pump / seals) costs about $130–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.
Should I repair or replace my washer?: Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.
Can I fix 1C myself?: Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.
Can I keep using my Samsung washer with a 1C code?: It is best not to. The washer may overfill or leak, which can damage your floor. Keep the water supply off until the cause is found and fixed.
Why did the 1C code go away and then come back?: A small leak may dry up between loads, or a loose air tube may only cause trouble at certain water levels. A code that keeps coming back usually means a part needs attention.