Samsung Washer Error Code HC1

HC1 indicates a heater error in the washing tub. The machine detected a temperature reading between 100°C and 150°C while the water level sensor reported no water in the tub, which signals a dangerous dry-heating condition. Samsung washers are programmed to cut power automatically when this occurs. The fault can originate from the heater element, the wash thermistor, or the main control board relay.

No, the washer should not be operated while displaying HC1. The code indicates the machine detected an overheating condition and shut down as a safety precaution. Running the washer without resolving the underlying fault risks further component damage and could pose a fire or electrical hazard.

Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A replacement thermistor is generally an inexpensive part, typically in the range of $10 to $40. A heater element replacement can cost between $30 and $80 for the part, plus labor if a technician is involved. A main control board replacement is the most expensive scenario, often ranging from $100 to $300 or more for parts alone.

Some steps are DIY-friendly, such as checking the heater resistance with a multimeter across terminals A and B. A reading between 15.40 and 16.70 ohms means the heater is intact and the thermistor is the likely culprit. Replacing a thermistor is a moderate-difficulty repair, while diagnosing a PBA relay issue typically requires more advanced electrical knowledge and may be better handled by a technician.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error display, but the code will return if the underlying component fault is not repaired. Because HC1 involves a real hardware condition such as a failed heater, faulty thermistor, or relay issue, a reset alone does not fix the problem. The root cause must be diagnosed and corrected before the machine will operate reliably.