Written by
Adrian Soto Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished September 5, 2026Updated October 20, 2026
Error codeHC / hE / HC4 / 1 HC
ApplianceDryer
Quick answer
HC, hE, HC4 and 1 HC are heating errors on a Samsung dryer, most often tied to a clogged lint screen or vent.
Model compatibility: Samsung reuses codes across series and model years, so HC / hE / HC4 / 1 HC 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
Heating error: the dryer is overheating or, on electric models, not heating enough.
On a Samsung dryer, HC, hE, HC4 and 1 HC are heating errors. Samsung’s US page says the dryer is getting too hot. The codes are listed for dryers in general.
Most common cause
A clogged lint screen or vent system traps heat in the dryer. Clean the lint screen, the vent system, or both.
When the heater is not hot enough
Sometimes the error shows because the heater is not hot enough, which can come from low voltage on electric dryers. For an electric dryer, Samsung says to contact an electrician to check the voltage supplied.
Other lists, other wording
Samsung UK reads HC and HE as compressor overheating or a high-temperature heating check. It tells owners to see whether the circuit breakers in the home’s electrical box have tripped and reset them, and to clean the lint filter. Checking the heating element wiring needs a professional electrician after unplugging the dryer.
The Samsung Russia heat-pump list gives incorrect power connection, a dirty lint filter or heat exchanger filter, and several drying cycles run back to back as reasons for HC.
If it continues
When the error keeps coming back after cleaning, Samsung says to request service.
Related codes
HC2 – gas ignition error, easy to confuse with HC.
If a heating code returns after you cleaned the lint screen and vent, call (310) 896-4231 for Samsung dryer service in Los Angeles. Details are on our dryer repair page. Please have the code, model number, and whether the dryer is electric ready.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your Samsung appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
