Samsung Dryer CL1 Error Code — What It Means
The CL1 or C1 code on a Samsung dryer tells you the control has detected laundry in the drum during the vent blockage test. Samsung officially lists this as ‘Laundry detected in the drum.’ It is not a component failure or vent sensor fault. The dryer ran a self-check routine (typically the vent blockage diagnostic) and found items still inside, so it stopped and threw the code. This is a test-state condition, not a hardware error.
Common Causes
- Items left in the drum Clothing or other laundry was still inside when the vent blockage test started.
- Test started with load inside The cycle or diagnostic mode was launched without clearing the drum first.
- Incomplete unload after last cycle A previous load was not fully removed before the test was triggered.
- Accidental test activation The vent blockage test was entered while the dryer was in normal use with a load present.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Open the door and check the entire drum for any clothing, towels, or small items that may have been missed.
- Remove all laundry from the drum completely so the drum is empty.
- Close the door firmly and power-cycle the dryer by unplugging it for thirty seconds, then plugging it back in.
- Restart the dryer and clear the error by pressing the power button or following your model’s reset procedure.
- Re-run the vent blockage test only when the drum is confirmed empty, following the steps in your Samsung user manual for your specific model.
- If the CL1 code returns with an empty drum, consult the model-specific service manual to confirm the test procedure was followed correctly.
- If the code persists after correct procedure, contact Samsung support or a qualified technician to inspect the control board and sensor wiring.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| User manual or service manual | Amazon | Required to verify the vent blockage test procedure for your exact Samsung dryer model number. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a pro if the CL1 code appears repeatedly with an empty drum after you have restarted the dryer and followed the model manual. Samsung’s guidance is to visit service if the error recurs, because a persistent CL1 with no laundry inside may point to a control board issue, faulty door sensor, or corrupted test routine that requires factory diagnostics and possibly a board reflash or replacement. If you are not confident running the vent blockage test procedure or your model manual is missing, a trained technician can perform the test correctly and rule out wiring or control faults.