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Source-backed error-code guide

Reviewed

Samsung Dryer HC / hE / HC4 / 1 HC Error Code

The HC family has both heat and electrical-supply context. Start with the lint screen and vent boundary; a licensed electrician must evaluate possible low voltage, and the code does not prove a heater or sensor has failed.

Applies to Samsung dryer with digital display

What the appliance detected

Detected condition

Samsung generally associates this family with a dryer getting too hot, but in some electric-dryer cases it can occur when the heater is not hot enough because of low supplied voltage.

What may contribute

Possible causes

  • A clogged removable lint screen.
  • A restricted exhaust vent system trapping heat in the dryer.
  • On an electric dryer, low supplied voltage causing the heater not to become hot enough.
  • An appliance concern if the airflow and, where relevant, electrical supply are confirmed correct but the code continues.

Start conservatively

Safe preliminary checks

Work in order and stop whenever a step is not supported by the documentation for your model.

  1. Record the exact code, model, and fuel type

    • Photograph or write down whether the display shows HC, hE, HC4, or 1 HC.
    • Confirm the full model number, owner manual, and whether the dryer is gas or electric.

  2. Stop for heat, fire, gas, or electrical warnings

    • Stop using the dryer for smoke, a burning odor, scorching, sparking, unusual heat, a gas odor, or visible damage.
    • Move to safety and contact the appropriate emergency service or qualified professional. Do not attempt gas-line or electrical work.

  3. Check the homeowner-accessible airflow points

    • With the dryer off and cool, clean the removable lint screen according to the model documentation.
    • Visually inspect only accessible external venting for crushing, kinks, or an obvious blockage. Use a qualified vent-cleaning professional for hidden ductwork.

  4. Use a qualified electrician for the electric-dryer voltage case

    • If an electric dryer is not heating adequately and the code points to the low-voltage case, contact a licensed electrician to check the supplied voltage.
    • Do not open the outlet or dryer, access a terminal block, or test voltage yourself.

Actions not recommended

  • Do not operate the dryer with a suspected blocked vent, unusual heat, smoke, burning odor, sparking, or gas odor.
  • Do not open electrical or gas connections, remove panels, test live voltage, access internal heaters or sensors, or replace parts based on the code alone.
  • Do not repeatedly reset the code; a reset cannot clear a blocked vent and erases diagnostic history useful to a technician.

When to stop and request service

  • Use a qualified dryer-vent professional when the exhaust path may be restricted beyond the accessible check.
  • Use a licensed electrician for possible low supplied voltage on an electric dryer, and request appliance service if the code continues after airflow and supply concerns are addressed.
  • Stop immediately and seek qualified help for smoke, burning odor, scorching, sparking, unusual heat, a gas odor, or visible damage.

Documented source

Official information reviewed

Our summary is based on manufacturer support material and stays within the limits of that material.

Source reviewed by Appliance Help HQ: August 12, 2026.

Appliance Help HQ is an independent informational site and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Samsung.

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