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How to Fix the Samsung Dishwasher LC Error Code

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

What you need

    • Switch off the dishwasher circuit breaker before opening panels or moving the dishwasher.

    • Most Samsung dishwashers are hardwired and don't have an on/off switch on the appliance.

    • Turn off the dishwasher water supply if you need to move the dishwasher far enough to strain a water line.

    • The LC code means the dishwasher has detected moisture or a leak near the water lines, drain, or bottom pan.

    • WARNING: Water and household wiring can shock you. Don't touch any wires until the breaker is off and you've verified the power is off.

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    • 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.

    • A clogged drain can hold dirty water in the system and trip the LC error.

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    • 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.

    • WARNING: Keep your hands out of the junction box unless the breaker is off and the wires are verified de-energized.

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    • 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.

    • WARNING: Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the wires are de-energized before touching them.

    • Disconnect the three wires inside the junction box and pull the cable free.

    • Mark or photograph the wire connections so they go back in the same positions during reassembly.

    • WARNING: Stop and call a qualified technician if you're not comfortable working with house wiring.

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    • 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.

    • Keep the screws and clips in a safe spot so they don't get lost.

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    • 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.

    • Move slowly so the water line, drain line, and electrical cable don't stretch or kink.

    • Use a towel under the feet to avoid scratching the floor.

    • A properly finished floor under the dishwasher lets the unit slide out more easily.

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    • 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.

    • Some water may remain in the drain area even when the dishwasher is working normally.

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    • 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.

    • The bottom pan holds leak water so it doesn't immediately flood the kitchen.

    • Don't ignore water in the pan, because an active leak can damage hardwood floors or leak into the space below.

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    • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw holding the bottom pan.

    • Store the screw in a safe place.

    • Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the small clips holding the bottom pan.

    • Remove the bottom pan from the bottom of the dishwasher.

    • Samsung DW80 and similar models may use one screw and several clips, but other models may differ.

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    • 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.

    • The sensor nodes detect water and put the dishwasher into the LC fault state.

    • Don't relocate or defeat the leak sensor to hide a recurring LC error, because it protects the floor from real leaks.

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    • 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.

    • Clear any debris you find, and reinstall the butterfly clip before closing the dishwasher.

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    • 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.

    • Use a drill at low speed only if you can avoid stripping the screw or plastic.

    • Carefully stand the dishwasher upright.

    • Slide the dishwasher back into the cabinet opening without scratching the floor.

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    • Reconnect any hardwired electrical connections in the same positions as before.

    • WARNING: Reinstall the junction box cover before restoring power.

    • 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.

    • Check that the drain line, water line, and electrical cable are routed properly and aren't pinched behind the dishwasher.

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    • 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.

    • Monitor the dishwasher and the under-sink connections for leaks during the next wash.

    • If the LC code returns, moisture is still present, or a leak or clog still needs to be found.

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Conclusion

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.

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