Written by Daniel Reviewed by Angela

Samsung Dishwasher OC Code? (here’s why & how to fix it)

Seeing an error code on your Samsung dishwasher can be worrying, especially if it’s the OC error code. The OC error code indicates a drainage error typically caused by a blockage or component malfunction.

In this article, we will take a close look at the OC error code, explain what it means and offer ways to fix the problems likely to cause this issue.

Table of Contents

What Does The OC Error Code Mean on A Samsung Dishwasher

The OC error code, or outlet error, is specifically related to drainage problems. It normally displays after the dishwasher has filled with water, and shows a problem with draining the appliance.

What Causes The OC Error Code In Samsung Dishwashers?

There are various likely causes for the OC error code on your Samsung dishwasher which include;

Probable Cause	Solution
Installation Issues	Check the drain hose and connections with waste disposal unit (if applicable)
Blocked Filter	Clean the filter
Clogged Drain Hose	Remove any blockage from the drain hose
Blocked Waste Disposal Unit	Free any blockage
Blocked Sink Waste Pipe	Remove any blockage
Blocked Air Gap	Remove any blockage from the air gap
Defective Drain Pump	Check and replace the drain pump if necessary
Defective Drain Sensor	Check and replace the drain sensor if necessary
Faulty Drain Solenoid	Check and replace the drain solenoid as necessary
Defective Check Valve	Check and replace the check valve as necessary
Control Board Malfunction	Perform a reset/contact a technician

Installation Issues (first time usage)

If the OC error code appears after installing your new Samsung dishwasher, it may signal an incorrect installation. Ensure the drain hose isn’t twisted or kinked.

Check for a cap between the drain hose and the disposal unit, removing it if present. If messing with the waste disposal unit is a step too far, we recommend getting a technician to do this for you.

Blocked Filter

If the filter is clogged, it can slow down or even prevent the waste water from leaving the dishwasher. You will need to remove the filter which is found at the bottom of the tub. Remove the lower rack to gain access and then turn the filter cap anti-clockwise to remove it.

Once removed, clean the filter by washing it under a running tap or soaking in warm soapy water or a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water. Any stubborn stains can be removed using a toothbrush or cloth.

Clogged Drain Hose

Check the drain hose for twists or kinks and straighten as necessary. If there are no twists or kinks but you suspect the drain hose is clogged, you should run it under fast-flowing water to clear blockages. Any stubborn clogs can be removed using a plumber’s snake.

If you don’t feel comfortable removing the drain hose, try pouring 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda and 1 cup of white vinegar onto the floor of the tub and leaving for 30 minutes. This should remove any blockage and all you’ll need to do is run a short wash cycle to remove any remaining gunk.

Blocked Waste Disposal Unit

If your dishwasher is connected to a waste disposal unit, run it briefly to clear blockages. If it will not run due to a blockage, you can manually turn the disposal unit using an allen key.

Turn the allen key backwards and forwards until it moves freely.

Blocked Sink Waste Pipe

If your dishwasher is connected to the waste pipe under your kitchen sink, any blockage in the sink’s waste pipe should be obvious because the dirty water will fill the sink.

Clear the sink’s waste pipe using a commercial drain cleaner, plunger, or plumber’s snake.

Blocked Air Gap

If your dishwasher is connected to an air gap, it could become clogged with grease, fat or food particles.

Clean the air gap, if fitted, by removing the cover and plastic cap, and use a bottle brush to clean as far into the tube as you can reach. Pour hot water down the pipe to ensure thorough cleaning.

Defective Drain Pump

If everything else seems fine, a faulty drain pump could trigger the OC error code. The drain pump is responsible for forcing all of the waste water out of the dishwasher. If it becomes defective it would cause the waste water to remain which will then cause the OC error code to be displayed.

As the drain pump is difficult to access we recommend contacting a technician to inspect and replace the drain pump if necessary.

Defective Drain Sensor

person pressing a button on dishwasher control panel

The drain sensor detects the level of water in the appliance. In some cases, the drain sensor could develop a glitch which can be cleared by disconnecting the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes.

If the error remains or returns soon after resetting the appliance, you will need to contact a technician to check and replace the sensor if necessary.

Faulty Drain Solenoid

Waste water leaves the dishwasher via the exit valve which is powered by the drain solenoid. If the drain solenoid becomes defective, it will prevent the exit valve from opening which will cause the waste water to back up into the dishwasher and trigger the OC error code.

If the drain solenoid, which powers the exit valve, becomes defective it will need replacing. This is a job best left to a technician.

Defective Check Valve

The check valve is a one way valve designed to allow water to leave the dishwasher but not return. If it becomes stuck or defective it could prevent water from leaving or allow water to re-enter the appliance.

We recommend getting a technician to investigate the check valve and replace it if necessary.

Control Board Malfunction

The control board sends and receives messages from every component on the dishwasher. In some cases, the control board can malfunction and this is often caused by an electrical glitch. If the control board does malfunction it could display the OC error code.

To remove the error code you should reset the dishwasher by disconnecting the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes to remove any residue power. If the error code persists even after a reset, you will need to contact a technician to investigate further.

Tips For Preventing Error Codes On Your Samsung Dishwasher

After successfully removing the OC error code, there are a few precautions you can take to prevent this or any other error codes being displayed. These include;

Run a hot service wash once a month to prevent dirt, grease, fat or limescale buildup.
Implement a regular cleaning schedule (once per month) for the filter, seals, gaskets, and spray arms.
Scrape dishes before placing them in the dishwasher to minimise the risk of clogs.
Use the correct detergent in the recommended quantity.
Regularly check the inlet and drain hoses for leaks, twists, or kinks.

By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of your dishwasher developing any faults or displaying any error codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the OC error code on a Samsung dishwasher indicate?

The OC error code on a Samsung dishwasher stands for outlet error and indicates drainage issues. It serves as a safety feature to prevent potential flooding in the kitchen by signalling problems with proper wastewater drainage.

What could cause the OC error code to be triggered on a Samsung dishwasher?

The OC error code on a Samsung dishwasher is likely to be triggered by the following; a blocked filter, clogged drain hose, drain pump issues, a clogged air gap, blocked waste disposal unit, blocked sink waste pipe, a defective drain sensor, a defective solenoid or a malfunctioning control board.

How can I reset the control board on my Samsung dishwasher?

To reset the control board on a Samsung dishwasher all you need to do is disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes to allow any residue power to dissipate. This should be enough to remove any glitch from the control board.