Introduction
The LC error on a Samsung dishwasher means the leak detector has found moisture. The dishwasher may keep running or refuse to reset because the leak sensor, water sensor, or moisture sensor in the bottom pan is wet. Use this guide to check the drain line, clean the filter and screen, inspect the bottom pan, dry the leak sensor, and look for leaks under the dishwasher. This guide was written around the Samsung DW80 and similar DW7000-style models, but other Samsung dishwashers may differ slightly.
What you need
-
Step 1 Shut off power and identify the LC code
-
Turn off the dishwasher water supply if you need to move the dishwasher far enough to strain a water line.
-
-
Step 2 Check the sink cabinet drain connection
-
Open the sink cabinet and locate the dishwasher drain line.
-
Check the cabinet floor under the sink for water.
-
Make sure the dishwasher drain connection is dry.
-
Clear any clog or old food from the drain line before taking the dishwasher apart.
-
-
Step 3 Remove the lower access plate
-
Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws from the lower access plate at the bottom front of the dishwasher.
-
Pull the lower access plate off the dishwasher.
-
Look under the front of the dishwasher for water.
-
Locate the electrical junction box area where the wires enter the dishwasher.
-
-
Step 4 Disconnect the hardwire cable if needed
-
Check whether the electrical cable has enough slack for the dishwasher to slide out.
-
If the cable is too tight, use a screwdriver to remove the junction box cover screw.
-
Disconnect the three wires inside the junction box and pull the cable free.
-
-
Step 5 Release the dishwasher mounting screws
-
Open the dishwasher door and check how the dishwasher is mounted to the cabinet opening.
-
Look for two top mounting clips under the countertop, or side clips screwed into the cabinets or trim.
-
Use a screwdriver to remove the two top screws or the two side screws for your installation.
-
Press the blue tabs on both sides and slide the tray out if it blocks access to the side screws.
-
-
Step 6 Slide the dishwasher out
-
Pull the dishwasher straight out from the cabinet opening.
-
Lift the dishwasher a few centimeters while pulling if a tile or hardwood floor lip catches the front of the unit.
-
-
Step 7 Clean the filter and screen
-
Slide the racks or trays out of the dishwasher.
-
Turn the filter from the locked position to the unlocked position and lift it out.
-
Wash the filter until it's free of food and debris.
-
Lift out the screen and wash it as well.
-
Check the drain cavity for an obvious clog.
-
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove residual water from the drain area.
-
-
Step 8 Tip the dishwasher onto its side
-
Wear work gloves before handling the underside of the dishwasher.
-
Carefully tip the dishwasher onto its side so you can access the bottom pan.
-
Inspect the underside and the bottom pan for water.
-
-
Step 9 Remove the bottom pan
-
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw holding the bottom pan.
-
Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the small clips holding the bottom pan.
-
Remove the bottom pan from the bottom of the dishwasher.
-
-
Step 10 Dry the leak sensor and pan
-
Locate the white leak sensor in the bottom pan.
-
Use a microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe up all water in the pan.
-
Wipe the metal sensor nodes until they are dry.
-
-
Step 11 Inspect the drain intake and motor area
-
Feel around the main drain at the bottom of the dishwasher for moisture.
-
Follow the drain line toward the exit and check for wet spots.
-
Follow the water intake line by hand and check for wet spots.
-
Check the motor area for moisture.
-
Release the butterfly clip on the main drain only if you need to check inside for old food or a clog.
-
-
Step 12 Reinstall the bottom pan
-
Align the bottom pan in its original position.
-
Push the pan into the clips until it sits securely.
-
Use a screwdriver to reinstall the bottom pan screw.
-
Carefully stand the dishwasher upright.
-
Slide the dishwasher back into the cabinet opening without scratching the floor.
-
-
Step 13 Reconnect and secure the dishwasher
-
Reconnect any hardwired electrical connections in the same positions as before.
-
Reinstall the top mounting screws or side mounting screws that secure the dishwasher to the cabinets.
-
Reinstall the lower access plate with its two screws.
-
Turn the dishwasher water supply back on if you shut it off.
-
-
Step 14 Restore power and check for reset
-
Switch the dishwasher circuit breaker back on.
-
Check the control panel for the LC error.
-
The dishwasher has reset if the LC code clears and the normal preset time appears.
-
Keep the leak sensor and bottom pan dry, but don't ignore a recurring LC code. If the code returns, recheck the drain path, water intake, motor area, and under-sink connections for an active leak or clog. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.