HC — (1C variants) — High Water Temperature
HC is a high water-temperature error: the dishwasher detected the water temperature is too high (around 80°C/176°F or above) via the thermistor. Common causes are a faulty temperature sensor (thermistor), a control-board issue, or an excessively hot incoming water supply — it is the water temperature, not a heating-element circuit, that is flagged.
- Keep using it?
- Limited use only
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Verified against
- samsung.com ↗
How to fix it
- Power off at the breaker for 5 minutes — do not run another cycle until inspected.
- Look at the heating element through the tub — discolored or burned areas mean replace it.
- Verify normal fill (no 9E history); a stuck-on heater with low water can melt the tub.
- Test the thermistor resistance per service manual at room temp.
- If the heater relay is welded (heater stays hot with power applied but cycle off), replace the main control board.
- Replace the heating element if shorted or burned.
Why it happens
Typical signs: HC on display · Cycle aborts during heated wash or dry · Steam from tub · Heating element discolored
- Heater stuck on (relay welded) Main board relay shorted closed — heater runs continuously.
- Failed temperature sensor Thermistor reads low so control keeps heater on.
- Low water in tub during heat Underfill or mid-cycle leak left heater exposed.
- Failed heating element Element shorted to ground or to chassis.
Parts you may need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
More Samsung dishwasher codes
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: samsung.com.