Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.
1. What best matches what you observe?
2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.
Show stop conditions
- Water is near the outlet, plug, motor, control panel, or internal wiring
- A supply hose, tub, pump, or internal connection is visibly leaking
- The code returns after one dry, detergent-free verification cycle
Likely causes
- Water is leaking from a supply hose, drain hose, dispenser, door seal, filter cap, or internal component
- The drain hose is kinked, routed too low, or installed incorrectly
- Too much detergent or non-HE detergent creates foam that triggers a false water-level condition
- The water-level or leakage sensor and its wiring require diagnosis
Quick checks, in order
Stop and look for moisture
Turn the washer off, protect the electrical area, and inspect the floor, hoses, dispenser, door seal, and accessible filter cap.
Check visible hose routing
Confirm the supply and drain hoses are not kinked and that the drain hose remains secured in the manufacturer's routing position.
Run one empty cycle with no additives
If suds appear without adding detergent or softener, continue empty rinses until the residue clears and reduce future HE detergent.
Request service if the code returns dry
A repeated LC or LE with no visible leak or suds requires model-specific leak-sensor, level-sensor, hose, wiring, or tub diagnosis.
What do you observe with LC or LE?
Close the water taps, disconnect power when safe, and correct the leak before running another cycle.
Detergent residue or non-HE detergent is the likely trigger. Run empty cycles without additives until the foam clears.
Restore the documented routing and holder position; incorrect installation can create siphoning or water-level errors.
Record the exact code and full model number, then arrange sensor, hose, wiring, or internal leak diagnosis.
Stop and get qualified help when
- Water is near the outlet, plug, motor, control panel, or internal wiring
- A supply hose, tub, pump, or internal connection is visibly leaking
- The code returns after one dry, detergent-free verification cycle
Official support and model manuals
Use the full model number from the rating label. The manufacturer manual is the deciding reference when codes differ by region or product family.
Frequently asked questions
What does LC or LE mean on a Samsung washing machine?
On supported Samsung washers, these displays indicate a water-level or leakage condition. The exact wording and code family vary by model.
Can too much detergent cause Samsung LC or LE?
Yes. Samsung instructs users to run an empty cycle with no additives; suds appearing during that test indicate detergent residue or incorrect detergent use.
Should I keep resetting the washer?
No. A reset does not repair a leak, hose problem, foam condition, or failed sensor, and repeated resets can erase useful error history.