Samsung Washer Error Code LC3 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

LC3 means your Samsung washer has detected water in the bottom of the machine. A flood sensor in the base pan triggered the error when it detected moisture it should not find there. The machine stops to prevent water damage to your floor and home. This could be a small drip or a significant leak — you need to investigate before running the washer again.

Affected Models

WF45R6100AW
WF50R8500AV
WF45T6000AW
WF45R6100AP
Samsung front-load washers with flood sensor in base

Common Causes

Leaking door seal (boot gasket) with a tear or mold buildup causing water to bypass the seal
Loose or cracked water inlet hose connection at the back of the machine
Failed door lock or latch allowing water to seep past the door during the spin cycle
Overfilling due to a faulty water inlet valve that does not close fully
Cracked drum bearing seal or tub seal allowing water into the base over time

How to Fix It

Turn off the washer and unplug it from the wall. Turn off the water supply valves behind the machine. Do not tilt the machine — there is water in the base pan.

Tilting the machine with water in the base can spill the water and trigger the sensor even after you think you have dried it out.
Pull the washer away from the wall and inspect the hot and cold water inlet hose connections at the back of the machine. Tighten any loose connections by hand or with pliers.

Do not overtighten — the hose connections use rubber washers that can split if over-tightened.
Inspect the door seal (rubber boot gasket) around the inside of the door opening. Look for cracks, tears, or accumulated mold and debris that could prevent the seal from seating properly.

Run your finger around the entire gasket and feel for soft spots, holes, or cuts. Even a small hole allows water to escape during high-speed spin.
Remove the bottom front access panel (usually held by two screws) and use a flashlight to inspect the inside base of the machine. Identify the source of the water if possible.

Look for active drips or watermarks on components. The area around the pump filter, drain hose, and drum bearing are common leak points.
Use a wet-dry vacuum or towels to remove the water from the base pan. Dry the flood sensor contact completely. Only then can you clear the error and test-run the machine while watching closely.

The error will not clear until the flood sensor dries out. Give it at least an hour with the access panel off.

When to Call a Professional

A small drip from a loose hose is a DIY fix, but internal leaks from the tub seal or drum bearing require professional service. Water damage to your floor can be expensive — do not keep running the machine until the source is identified. Call Samsung support or a licensed appliance technician if you cannot locate the leak source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can LC3 be a false alarm?

Yes, occasionally. A small splash of water during installation or a spilled detergent that reached the base pan can trigger the flood sensor. However, always treat LC3 as a real leak until you confirm otherwise. Investigate before assuming it is a false alarm.

How do I dry out the flood sensor after fixing the leak?

Remove the bottom front panel and use a fan or hair dryer on a low heat setting to dry the base pan. The flood sensor is a small float or contact pad — it must be completely dry before the error will clear. This can take 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on how much water was present.

Is the door seal covered under Samsung warranty?

Samsung's standard warranty covers manufacturing defects but not wear-and-tear damage like a torn door seal. However, if the seal failed prematurely on a relatively new machine, it is worth contacting Samsung support. Door seals typically cost $40 to $80 for the part and take about an hour to replace.