Seeing **tC1** on a Samsung washing machine narrows the problem to **temperature sensor error**. What you do next depends on whether the code is an issue, a normal status/test message, or a model-dependent interpretation. Samsung appliances monitor whether a function reaches an expected state within a certain sequence. When that check fails, the control can store or display a code even though the root cause may sit elsewhere in the same circuit. The recorded display form is **tC1**. Search normalization stores it as **TC1** while preserving the characters a homeowner actually sees.
Reviewed by Ethan Mercer · Last reviewed August 17, 2026
Written by
Ethan Mercer Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished August 17, 2026Updated August 22, 2026Technically reviewed August 17, 2026
Content status:
Verified
Error codeTC1
ApplianceWasher
Quick answer
Temperature sensor error.
Model compatibility: Samsung can reuse or reformat codes across series and model years, so TC1 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
Seeing **tC1** on a Samsung washing machine narrows the problem to **temperature sensor error**. What you do next depends on whether the code is an issue, a normal status/test message, or a model-dependent interpretation. Samsung appliances monitor whether a function reaches an expected state within a certain sequence. When that check fails, the control can store or display a code even though the root cause may sit elsewhere in the same circuit. The recorded display form is **tC1**. Search normalization stores it as **TC1** while preserving the characters a homeowner actually sees.
Signs
Symptoms you may notice
On affected Samsung washing machine models, the control can stop or limit operation because a temperature reading is missing or implausible.
While tC1 is active, heating, cooling, drying, or defrost behavior can become inconsistent.
Depending on the exact model, the display may return at a similar stage each time the affected sensor is checked.
On affected Samsung washing machine models, tC1 appears during the washer stage associated with temperature sensor error.
On affected Samsung washing machine models, the cycle may pause, stop, retry, drain, or refuse to advance until the condition is cleared.
Why it happens
Possible causes
varies by model/region — cross-region baseline — Temperature sensor error
Before you call
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
With tC1 recorded, record when the code appears and whether the appliance had just heated, cooled, or defrosted.
As an external check for tC1, confirm vents, doors, filters, and ambient conditions are normal where they affect the sensor reading.
Before opening any service area, use the exact model manual before assuming the sensor itself is defective.
With tC1 recorded, record the code and the cycle stage where it appears.
With tC1 recorded, check owner-accessible water supply, drain hose/filter, load balance, door, detergent, or power only when relevant.
The next non-invasive check is to power-cycle once only where Samsung's guidance recommends it; if the same code returns, move to model-specific diagnosis.
Important safety warning. Disconnect power and stop use for active leakage near electrical parts, smoke, burning smell, or repeated breaker trips. For tC1, stop troubleshooting immediately if the symptom crosses into a safety hazard rather than a normal diagnostic condition.
Get help
When to request repair service
Persistent temperature-sensor codes usually require resistance/connection checks at the sensor, harness, and control—work best done with the model-specific service procedure. In a service visit for tC1, model-specific testing should follow the temperature sensor error circuit rather than treating the code as proof of one failed part.
Book your repair
Seeing this code on your Samsung appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
A single documented power reset can help after an external condition or power event is corrected. If **tC1** returns at the same stage, repeated resets only erase useful evidence and do not repair the cause.
Do not keep operating the appliance through a hazardous symptom just to see whether **tC1** clears. If there is heat, water, electrical, gas, or food-safety risk, stop and arrange diagnosis.
Treat **tC1** as a starting point, not a replacement instruction. Wiring, feedback signals, operating conditions, and electronic controls can mimic a failed component.
The same-looking code can be reused on another Samsung appliance family or reformatted by region/model year. Match the appliance type and exact model before applying a meaning. This page therefore keeps **Washer tC1** separate from same-looking codes used by other Samsung appliance families.