Error code
1C Error in Samsung Washing Machine - Water Level Sensor
A 1C error in a Samsung washing machine means there is a water-level sensor issue. Samsung UK advises switching the washer off at the mains for one minute, switching it back on, and starting a new programme. If 1C returns, stop using the machine and contact support.
Quick answer
1C: Samsung identifies 1C or 1E as a water-level sensor issue.
Meaning
Samsung identifies 1C or 1E as a water-level sensor issue.
First safe check
Switch the washing machine off at the mains and wait one minute, as Samsung UK advises.
Stop if
Machine overfills
Who to call
Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance engineer if 1C returns after the one-minute mains restart, the water level looks wrong, the machine overfills, or water appears underneath.
Medium severity: check safely and stop if it returns. Disconnect power before checking accessible parts where the appliance guidance says to do so.
Fix time
About 1-5 minutes for the official restart
Difficulty
Simple restart; internal fault diagnosis is professional-only
Switch the washer off at the mains for one minute, switch it back on, and start one new programme if there is no leak or overfill.
Expected outcome: A temporary warning may clear after the restart; repeat 1C means the water-level sensor issue still needs support.
What does this error code mean?
Samsung UK's washing-machine code guide identifies 1C and 1E as water-level sensor issues. The sensor is responsible for reporting the water level to the control system, so the washer may stop because it cannot rely on that reading.
If you searched for `1C error in Samsung washing machine`, Samsung's published user step is specific: switch the appliance off at the mains, wait one minute, switch it back on, and start a new programme. If the code returns, contact Samsung support rather than opening the cabinet or attempting sensor work.
Check the display carefully because Samsung 1E can represent the same issue on some models. If the symptoms or code instead point to overfilling, leaking, or no incoming water, compare Samsung OC, Samsung LC, or Samsung 4C. You can also browse the Samsung washing-machine error code list.
Symptoms users may notice
- The machine may pause during filling, draining, or before spin.
- The displayed water level may not match what is happening in the drum.
- The appliance may fill, stop, drain, and then fault because the level signal is inconsistent.
- The displayed code may appear as 1C or 1E depending on the model.
What users often notice
- Users may confuse 1C with water-supply, overflow, or leak codes, but Samsung classifies 1C/1E as a water-level sensor issue.
- The washer may stop the programme because it cannot rely on the water-level sensor reading.
Why is this happening?
- The water-level sensor is not working properly
- An internal sensor signal or control fault that needs professional diagnosis if 1C returns
- A persistent pressure level problem that needs further diagnosis
What this usually points to
This code usually points to the water level sensing path, including the pressure sensor, pressure hose, or related control readings.
How to fix this safely
- Switch the washing machine off at the mains and wait one minute, as Samsung UK advises.
- Switch the appliance back on and start one new programme only if there is no leaking or visible overfilling.
- If 1C returns, stop using the washer and contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance engineer.
- Do not remove panels or attempt to inspect the water-level sensor, internal hose, wiring, or control system.
Can I fix this myself?
MaybeSamsung's published user step is one mains restart after waiting one minute. A returning 1C warning needs support rather than internal user checks.
Safety boundary: Stop if 1C returns, the washer leaks or overfills, or any check would require opening the cabinet.
What not to do
- Do not keep running cycles if the drum is overfilling or stopping with water inside.
- Do not remove panels to inspect the pressure sensor or hose unless you are qualified to repair appliances.
Reset steps
- Switch the appliance off at the mains and wait one minute.
- Switch it back on and start one new programme only if there is no leak or visible overfilling.
- Stop and contact support if 1C returns.
Intermittent vs persistent faults
Samsung recommends one restart after a one-minute mains-off period. If 1C returns, contact support because the water-level sensor issue persists.
When to call a technician
Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance engineer if 1C returns after the one-minute mains restart, the water level looks wrong, the machine overfills, or water appears underneath.
Safety warning
Disconnect the appliance from the mains before any checks and stop using it if there are signs of overfilling or leaking.
Useful hub links
Related pressure and level fault codes
LC Error in Samsung Washing Machine - Meaning, Low Water Level Checks and Safe Help
Samsung UK lists LC as low water level detected.
Samsung Washing Machine OC Error - Overflow, Overfilling or 0C Warning
Samsung OC usually means the washer thinks the drum is overfilling or the water level is rising too high.
Samsung Washing Machine Error Code 0C
The washer thinks the water level has risen too high or the drum is overfilling.
Samsung Washing Machine 4C Error - Not Filling With Water
The washer is not filling with water properly.
Relevant guide
Frequently asked questions
What does 1C error in a Samsung washing machine mean?+
Samsung identifies 1C, and 1E on some models, as a water-level sensor issue.
How do I fix Samsung washing machine 1C error?+
Samsung UK advises switching the washer off at the mains for one minute, switching it back on, and starting a new programme. If 1C returns, contact support.
What should I do first for a Samsung washing machine 1C error?+
Switch the appliance off at the mains, wait one minute, switch it back on, and start one new programme if there is no leak or overfilling.
Can I still use a Samsung washing machine with 1C showing?+
Only try the one restart Samsung recommends. If the water level looks wrong, the machine leaks or overfills, or 1C returns, stop using the washer and contact support.
Does Samsung 1C mean I need an engineer?+
If 1C returns after the one-minute mains restart, contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance engineer for diagnosis.
Will resetting fix Samsung 1C permanently?+
Samsung recommends one restart after switching the appliance off at the mains for one minute. If 1C returns, the water-level sensor issue still needs support.
Is Samsung 1C dangerous?+
It can become risky if the machine overfills, leaks, or keeps trying to fill and drain unpredictably.
What happens if I ignore Samsung 1C?+
The washer may stop mid-cycle, fill to the wrong level, wash poorly, or eventually trigger overflow-style warnings such as OC or LC.
Sources and review status
Model dependent · Last reviewed 12 August 2026
- Samsung UK washing-machine code guide
manufacturer support · UK · checked 12 August 2026
Samsung UK lists 1C and 1E as water-level sensor issues and advises switching off at the mains for one minute, switching back on, and starting a new programme.
Model variation note
Samsung UK's general table groups 1C and 1E as water level sensor issues. Check the exact manual for model-specific wording.