Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Turn off the water supply valve under the sink and disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
- Open the dishwasher and check for visibly high water in the tub bottom.
- If water is present: let it drain by running a drain cycle (after restoring power temporarily).
- Check the drain hose routing under the sink — confirm there is a high loop bringing the hose above the sink drain inlet before it connects.
- Check the garbage disposal connection — if present, confirm the drain hose enters the disposal above the disposal's water line.
- If water level looks normal after draining but OC returns, the water inlet valve or water level sensor is faulty.
If it's still not filling correctly
- If normal household water flow looks good but the code returns, the inlet-valve or fill-sensing path becomes more likely.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
What This Error Means
Error OC on your Samsung dishwasher means: The dishwasher has detected that the water level inside the tub is higher than expected. The water level sensor has measured an overfill condition, and the cycle has been stopped to prevent overflow and potential water damage. Also displayed as 0C, oE on some models. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has flagged this condition and may have paused the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is water inlet valve stuck partially open — allows water to continue entering after fill cycle completes. Work through the causes and steps below before calling a technician.
Many cases of OC can be partially resolved by the homeowner. Complete all DIY steps before contacting a technician.
The dishwasher will not resume full operation until the condition is resolved. Work through all steps before contacting Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Samsung dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Water inlet valve stuck partially open — allows water to continue entering after fill cycle completes
Check first: SAFETY: Turn off the water supply valve under the sink and disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Water level sensor (pressure switch) fault — misreading normal water level as overfill
Check first: Open the dishwasher and check for visibly high water in the tub bottom.
Common Causes
- Water inlet valve stuck partially open — allows water to continue entering after fill cycle completes
- Water level sensor (pressure switch) fault — misreading normal water level as overfill
- Backflow from drain connection — water re-entering from the garbage disposal or sink drain
- Drain hose installed without a high loop — allows sink water to siphon back into dishwasher
What Not to Do
- Do not ignore OC — a stuck-open inlet valve will eventually overflow the tub
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Samsung dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
- Some models may display the same fault as OC, 0C, oE.
Display and panel differences
- Some control panels show this issue as OC, 0C, oE instead of only OC.
- Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Water inlet valve if valve is stuck open ($30–$70)
- Water level sensor/pressure switch if sensor is misreading level ($20–$50)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Samsung dishwasher parts.
Service option
Samsung service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
OC returns after confirming drain hose routing is correct
- Dishwasher fills continuously and does not stop — indicating a stuck-open inlet valve
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Ensure the drain hose has a high loop under the sink — this prevents drain backflow that triggers false OC readings
Related Error Codes
4C
Samsung dishwasher error 4C usually means the machine is not getting enough incoming water to fill correctly.
9E
The dishwasher has detected that the water level inside the tub is lower than required for safe operation. The water level sensor cannot confirm that enough water is present for the cycle to run without risk of pump damage or heating element damage.
LC
Samsung dishwasher error LC usually means the leak sensor has detected moisture in the base area.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Samsung support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on Samsung support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Samsung US Official Support
Model coverage note: Samsung dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.