What this error means
Water in base — the leak detection system has found water beneath the dishwasher tub
The LC or LE error means the dishwasher's leak detection sensor has detected water in the base tray beneath the tub. This is a safety feature that automatically stops the programme and, on some models, activates the drain pump to remove accumulated water. The most common causes are a leaking door seal, a split or loose internal hose, a pump seal failure, or a small crack in the tub or sump body.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- LC or LE displayed during any programme phase
- Water visible on the floor directly beneath the dishwasher
- Machine starts then immediately drains and displays LC without completing the fill
- Slight water film appearing under the machine after several cycles with no obvious external leak
What to check
Both of these steps are essential before any inspection. Water and electricity together present a serious risk.
Remove the lower kickplate panel carefully. Shine a torch into the machine base. Look for the point of origin of the water — check around the door seal edge, the pump body, the sump underside, the inlet hose connection inside the machine, and the drain hose connection to the pump. Look for water staining, mineral deposits (white or brown dried marks indicating repeated wetting), or active dripping.
Open the door and examine the rubber door seal around its full circumference. Look for cracks, tears, sections that have pulled away from the door frame, or areas where the seal is compressed unevenly. Press gently into the fold and feel for soft or damp sections.
With the kickplate removed and the machine unplugged, inspect the connections at both ends of the inlet hose inside the machine, both connections of the sump hose (the large corrugated hose between the sump and the pump), and the drain hose connection at the pump outlet. Each connection should be secured by a spring clip or hose clamp. Check that clips are in position and hoses are seated fully onto their stubs.
Once the source of the leak has been found and repaired, dry the base tray completely using dry cloths and then allow it to air dry for at least 2 hours with the kickplate removed. The leak detection float sensor in the base tray must return to its resting position on a dry surface before the machine will allow a cycle to run.
Restore power and water supply and run a Quick Wash while watching closely. After 5 minutes, check the base tray through the kickplate opening for any sign of new water. If the base remains dry throughout the cycle, the repair is successful.
When to call an engineer
- Door seal is cracked, torn, or has separated from the door frame — must be replaced
- Sump hose connection is loose or the clip has failed — water spraying inside the base
- Pump seal is weeping — water present around the pump body with no hose leak visible
- Source of leak cannot be identified after full visual inspection — tub or sump may have a hairline crack
Frequently asked questions
Is LC dangerous?
Will the LC sensor reset itself when the base dries?
What is the difference between LC and OC on a Samsung dishwasher?
Can I fix a leaking door seal myself?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Door Seal | £20 - £40 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Door Seal | £17 - £25 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
| Inlet Hose | £10 - £15 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Outlet Hose (drain) | £7 - £10 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Inlet Hose | £10 - £15 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
| Outlet Hose (drain) | £10 - £15 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.