On the covered Samsung dryer platform, C1, CL1 means vent blockage test could not run because laundry is detected inside the drum. First, remove the laundry. Samsung says laundry is detected inside the drum; the drum must be empty to run the test.
Differential
Likely causes of “Samsung dryer code C1, CL1”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
Laundry left in the drum
What separates it C1 or CL1 shows when you start the vent blockage test
How to confirm Samsung says laundry is detected inside the drum; the drum must be empty to run the test
- 2
A sensor reading with an empty drum
What separates it The drum is empty and the code stays, which points to a sensor reading with an empty drum
How to confirm Samsung says to request service if it occurs when the drum is empty
- 3
A damp cloth or lint left in the drum after cleaning
What separates it The drum looks empty but a cloth or a clump of lint is stuck inside
How to confirm Look through the drum and along the back for a stray cloth or lint clump before repeating the test
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: C1 or CL1
- Whether the drum is completely empty
- Whether socks or small items may be hiding inside
Try in this order
0 of 5 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleRemove the laundry.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleSamsung says to remove the laundry and try again, and if the error occurs when the drum is empty, to request service from its Support Center.
Empty the drum
ReversibleRemove all laundry, including small items that can hide behind the door seal or under the drum.
Repeat the test
ReversibleClose the door and run the vent blockage test again with the drum empty.
Request service
ReversibleIf C1 or CL1 shows with an empty drum, request service.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- C1, CL1.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Unplug the dryer before you reach into the drum
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. C1 and CL1 appear only in the vent blockage test.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does C1, CL1 mean on a Samsung dryer?+
Vent blockage test could not run because laundry is detected inside the drum.
What if the drum is empty?+
Request service.
Is it a vent problem?+
No; the test could not run.
Do I need to run the test with an empty drum?+
Yes; Samsung says the drum must be empty for the test to run, so check every corner before starting.