Samsung Washing Machine LE error code

The washer detected moisture where it shouldn't be, or its water-level sensor is misbehaving. It can indicate a real leak — or simply excess suds fooling the sensor.

Also shown as: LC, LC1, 1E, 1C, LE1, E9

Last updated: September 30, 2026

Quick answer: Samsung washing machine error code LE: possible leak or water-level sensor fault. The most common cause is actual water leak from a hose, valve, or tub connection. Try this first — look for evidence of a leak. If that does not clear it, run an empty test cycle.

What causes the LE error?

  • Actual water leak from a hose, valve, or tub connection
  • Too much detergent or non-HE detergent creating excess suds
  • Faulty water-level sensor or its wiring
  • Kinked hoses behind the washer
  • Foreign material in the drain/valve area

How to fix Samsung LE — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Look for evidence of a leak
    Inspect the floor around and under the washer, plus the supply hoses, drain hose, valves, and tub connections behind it. Small leaks can go unnoticed, so check carefully. If you find one, stop and call for service.
    Safety warning: Unplug the washer before reaching behind it if water is pooling near electrical parts.
  2. Run an empty test cycle
    Run a cycle with no laundry and no detergent or softener. If suds appear, the cause is too much or non-HE detergent — keep running empty cycles until no suds appear, then see if the code returns.
  3. Check the hoses
    Make sure the supply and drain hoses behind the washer aren't kinked. Don't remove the screw and holder that secure the drain hose to the back of the washer.
  4. Request service if it persists
    If no suds appear in the empty cycles but the code continues, the water-level sensor or a hidden leak is likely at fault and needs a technician.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • You find any leak at the base, hoses, valves, or tub connections
  • Code continues with no suds after empty test cycles
  • Sensor, valve, or tub work is needed — all require opening the machine
  • Water leaking heavily or pooling under the washer

Frequently asked questions

I don't see any water — why does LE show?

Excess suds from too much or non-HE detergent can trick the sensor. The empty-cycle test reveals this quickly.

Is LE the same as 1E or LC?

On most current Samsung models these codes share the same water-level/leakage meaning; older regional models split them slightly.

Should I keep using the washer with LE showing?

No — pause use until you rule out a leak. Running it with an active leak risks water damage to your floor and the machine's electronics.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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