If your Samsung dishwasher is displaying an error code, this guide explains what the code usually means, the most common causes, and safe checks you can try before calling service.
Note: Error codes can vary by model and year, but the explanations below apply to most modern Samsung dishwashers.
Table of Contents
Common Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes
4C / 4E — Water Supply Error
What it usually means
- The dishwasher is not filling with water correctly.
Try this
- Make sure the water supply tap is fully open.
- Check the inlet hose for kinks or twists.
- Clean the inlet filter screen where the hose connects.
- Confirm household water pressure is normal.
Call service if
- The dishwasher does not fill at all after these checks.
5C / 5E — Drain Error
What it usually means
- Water is not draining out of the dishwasher.
Try this
- Clean the filter and sump area at the bottom of the tub.
- Check the drain hose for kinks and ensure a high loop is present.
- Confirm the sink drain or garbage disposal is not blocked.
Call service if
- The drain pump runs but water remains in the tub.
LC / LE — Leak Detected
What it usually means
- Water has collected in the base and triggered the leak sensor.
Try this
- Turn off power and water supply.
- Check for visible leaks around the door seal.
- Allow the dishwasher to dry for 24–48 hours before restarting.
Call service if
- The error returns shortly after restart.
OE — Overflow Error
What it usually means
- The dishwasher detects too much water in the tub.
Try this
- Turn off the dishwasher and water supply.
- Check for excessive foam from incorrect detergent use.
- Restart once after correcting detergent usage.
Call service if
- The dishwasher continues to overfill.
HE — Heating Error
What it usually means
- Water is not heating to the required temperature.
Try this
- Run hot water at the sink before starting the cycle.
- Clean filters to ensure good water circulation.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher.
Call service if
- HE appears on multiple cycles.
PE — Water Level / Pressure Error
What it usually means
- A problem with the water level or pressure sensor.
Try this
- Power off at the wall for 5 minutes.
- Restart a short cycle.
Call service if
- PE returns immediately.
AE — Communication Error
What it usually means
- A fault in communication between control components.
Try this
- Power off for 5 minutes.
- Restart and test a short cycle.
Call service if
- AE reappears (electronics diagnosis required).
How to Clear a Samsung Dishwasher Error Code
- Turn the dishwasher off.
- Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
- Restore power and start a short cycle.
If the error returns immediately, it indicates an active fault.
When to Call Service
- Repeated leak or overflow errors
- Persistent heating faults
- Drain errors that continue after cleaning
- Any visible water damage or electrical issues
FAQ
Can detergent cause Samsung dishwasher error codes?
Yes. Too much or incorrect detergent can create foam, leading to drain and leak errors.
Why does 5E occur even if the sink drains?
The dishwasher’s filter, pump, and hose can clog independently of the sink.
Is it safe to keep resetting the dishwasher?
No. Repeated resets without fixing the cause can lead to leaks or component damage.
More Samsung appliance error code guides
If you’re troubleshooting other Samsung appliances, these guides may also help: