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OCSamsung Dishwasher

Samsung Dishwasher Error OC – Meaning, Causes & How to Fix

Over-level water error – the dishwasher has detected that the water level inside the tub is higher than expected, indicating a fill valve that won't shut off or drain that is too slow.

Medium Severity
Low
Medium
High
Critical

Expert Verified

Reviewed by a Certified Electrical Engineer & Licensed Technician

Official Meaning

Over-level water error – the dishwasher has detected that the water level inside the tub is higher than expected, indicating a fill valve that won't shut off or drain that is too slow.

Real-World Causes

  • 1Water inlet valve is stuck open and continues to fill even after receiving the shut-off signal
  • 2Drain hose is connected to a clogged drain, and dirty water from the sink is backflowing into the dishwasher
  • 3Water level sensor (pressure switch) is malfunctioning and not accurately detecting the water level
  • 4Drain pump is running too slowly, so water accumulates faster than it drains
  • 5Anti-siphon air gap or high drain loop is missing, allowing backflow

Symptoms

Look for these signs to confirm error OC on your Samsung Dishwasher:

  • OC error code on the display, usually mid-cycle
  • Excessive water visible in the bottom of the tub when the door is opened
  • Water may leak from the door seal due to high water level
  • Dishwasher repeatedly tries to drain during the cycle
  • Gurgling sound from the drain connection area

DIY Fix (Safe)

  1. 1Turn off the dishwasher immediately and cancel the cycle
  2. 2Check if the kitchen sink drain is slow or blocked – run the garbage disposal and clear any backup
  3. 3Ensure the drain hose has a proper high loop (rising to the countertop level) before descending to the drain connection – this prevents backflow
  4. 4Clean the drain filter in the dishwasher to ensure water can exit freely
  5. 5Restart the dishwasher with a drain-only cycle to remove excess water

Professional Action Required

  1. 1Test the water inlet valve for proper shut-off – replace if it does not fully close when de-energized
  2. 2Check the water level pressure switch and its air tube for leaks or blockage
  3. 3Install a proper anti-siphon air gap device at the drain connection if not already present
  4. 4Inspect and test the drain pump for adequate flow rate
  5. 5Check the control board for a stuck fill valve relay that may not be cutting power to the inlet valve

Additional Context

Load Type
Any – overfill is not load dependent
Drain Related
true
Sensor Issues
Pressure switch or float sensor failure can cause inability to detect high water

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Samsung Dishwasher error OC mean?
Error OC means the water level inside the dishwasher is too high. This can be caused by a stuck-open fill valve, backflow from a clogged sink drain, or a faulty water level sensor. Check your kitchen drain first, as backflow is the most common cause.

Related Error Codes

Other Samsung Dishwasher Errors

4CWater supply error – the dishwasher is not receiving water or the fill rate is too slow
5CDrain error – the dishwasher is unable to pump water out within the expected time
LCLeak detected – the dishwasher's leak sensor in the base pan has detected the presence of water, indicating a potential leak in the system
tETemperature sensor error – the dishwasher's water temperature sensor is not responding or is returning readings outside the acceptable range

About the Author

Technical Review Team

Reviewed by certified appliance technicians with 10+ years of Samsung repair experience. Every error code is verified against manufacturer service manuals and real-world repair data.