Samsung Dishwasher Error Code OC — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Samsung dishwasher error OC means the water level inside the tub is too high. The dishwasher detected more water than it should have during a cycle. This is a critical error — stop the cycle immediately to prevent flooding.

Affected Models

Samsung DW80R9950US
Samsung DW80R7060US
Samsung DW80R5061US
Samsung DW80K5050US
Samsung DW80J7550US

Common Causes

The water inlet valve is stuck open and allowing water to flow in even when it should stop
The water level sensor or float switch is dirty or stuck in the low position, constantly calling for more water
Excessive suds from incorrect detergent are making the water level sensor misread the actual fill level
The drain hose is connected too low, allowing water to siphon back into the tub after draining
A faulty control board is sending incorrect signals to the water inlet valve

How to Fix It

Press Cancel or Start/Reset to cancel the current cycle immediately. Turn off the water supply valve under the sink.

Stopping the water supply prevents any further water from entering the tub while you investigate.
Open the dishwasher door carefully — the tub may have excess water. Use towels to soak up any overflow before proceeding.

Do not reach into the tub while the dishwasher is powered on. Cancel the cycle and wait for the control panel to go dark first.
Check the detergent dispenser. Make sure you used automatic dishwasher detergent — not hand-washing dish soap. Excessive suds can fool the water sensor.

If there are a lot of suds in the tub, bail them out with a cup, mop up residual water, and run a short drain cycle.
Check the drain hose connection at the back of the dishwasher. The drain hose should loop up to at least the height of the counter before connecting to the drain, forming a high loop.

A drain hose that runs straight down without a high loop allows drain water to siphon back into the tub, which triggers OC.
Reset the dishwasher by unplugging it for 5 minutes. Turn the water supply back on, plug it in, and run a short rinse cycle while watching for OC to reappear.

If OC returns immediately, the inlet valve is likely stuck open and must be replaced by a technician.

When to Call a Professional

Error OC is a serious error that can lead to a flooded kitchen if not addressed. If the basic checks below do not resolve it, the inlet valve or water sensor requires professional replacement. Typical repair cost is $100 to $200 for parts and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a drain hose high loop and why does it matter?

A high loop is when the drain hose is routed upward — to the height of the countertop or higher — before connecting to the drain or garbage disposal. This prevents wastewater from siphoning back into the tub due to gravity. Without a high loop, the tub can slowly refill with dirty drain water, triggering OC.

Can I use any dishwasher detergent or does it matter?

It matters a great deal. Always use detergent labeled for automatic dishwashers. Never use hand-washing dish soap — even a small amount creates massive suds that overflow sensors and cause OC. Pod-style and powder automatic dishwasher detergents are both fine.

My dishwasher fills with water normally and then OC appears. Is that the inlet valve?

If the tub fills to a normal level but OC still appears, the water level sensor may be reading incorrectly. If the tub is visibly overfilled, the inlet valve is the more likely culprit. Either way, a technician with a diagnostic tool can identify the faulty part quickly.