Samsung dishwasher code LE: what it means and how to fix it
Your Samsung dishwasher may show LE, LC, or keep trying to drain even when the tub looks empty. That code is about moisture under the tub, often in the base pan where you can't see it from inside the dishwasher. This page shows what to check first and what a technician tests if the code stays on.
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Samsung dishwasher code LE means the leak sensor has detected moisture in the base pan, so the machine may keep running the drain pump. The most common cause is real water in that base from suds, drain backup, a hose drip, or a small leak rather than a bad sensor.
Check these first
Safe to do yourself. Unplug the appliance before you start.
- Turn power off before you look around
Shut the dishwasher off at the breaker. Don't reset the code until you've checked for the cause, because the code can come right back if moisture is still in the base.
- Check the drain hose and garbage disposer connection
Look under the sink where the dishwasher drain hose connects. If a disposer was just installed, make sure the knockout plug was removed, and keep the drain hose looped high in the cabinet so sink water can't run back toward the dishwasher.
- Look for suds or the wrong detergent
Regular dish soap, too much detergent, or rinse aid spills can make foam that overflows into the base pan. If you see suds in the tub, stop using the machine until the suds are gone.
- Clean the door gasket and spray arms
Wipe food and grit off the door gasket. Then check the spray arm holes for bits of food, since a blocked nozzle can aim water at the door seal and trip LE without a puddle in front.
- Check that the dishwasher sits level
A unit that leans can let water pool where it shouldn't. Use a small level at the rack rails or tub lip, then adjust only the leveling legs you can reach safely.
- Look for obvious drips around hoses
With the power still off, check the visible supply line, drain hose, and under-sink connections for wet spots. If water is on the floor or the code returns right away after drying time, stop and have a technician find the leak.
Every Samsung dishwasher error code in one table, with what each means and what to check first →
The company will ask for it first. It's on a sticker or metal plate, usually in one of these spots:
- Open the door: on the left or right edge of the tub or door
- Some models: on the top edge of the door
Conditions that make this more likely
The house drain can be the real problem
Older homes often have narrow or partly blocked standpipes and drain lines. If the machine's own filter and hose are clear, the house drain is the next suspect, and that's a plumbing call rather than an appliance call.
What a technician tests
Most likely part first. These are for a technician with a meter and the tech sheet, not a weekend project.
Don't see your symptom?
Describe it on the phone. The company on the other end works on these every day and will know what to ask.
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Can I reset a Samsung dishwasher LE code?
You can turn power off at the breaker, then turn it back on after the checks above. If moisture is still in the base pan, the code will return and the drain pump may run again.
Is LE the same as LC on a Samsung dishwasher?
Yes. Samsung uses LE and LC for a leakage or moisture detection fault, depending on model and display style.
Why does the dishwasher keep running when LE is on?
When the leak sensor is tripped, the control may run the drain pump to move water away. That is expected behavior for this fault.
Does LE always mean the leak sensor is bad?
No. If there is water in the base pan, the sensor is doing its job. A bad sensor is more likely when the base is dry and the sensor circuit still reports a leak.
Can a clogged filter cause Samsung dishwasher code LE?
A dirty filter by itself is more often tied to wash or drain trouble, but poor draining can lead to backup and moisture in the base. Clean the filter, then check the drain hose route and disposer connection.
Still showing the problem after the checks?
Call and describe what you tried. You'll be connected with an independent repair company near you.