Error code · Washer

Samsung Washer Code CL: Child Lock On

Samsung washers with a digital display, front-load and top-load, show CL to say Child Lock is on. On newer models the code also appears when Child Lock has drained water out of the tub, which can…

Low risk · DIY check OK

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Code: CL
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Samsung
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What CL means

Samsung washers with a digital display, front-load and top-load, show CL to say Child Lock is on. On newer models the code also appears when Child Lock has drained water out of the tub, which can happen when Child Lock was on, the water level was unsafe, or the door was opened. It is a safety setting, not a breakdown, and it can leave the buttons locked until you clear it.

Common causes of CL

Child Lock switched on
Door opened mid-cycle at an unsafe water level
Unsafe water level triggering a drain

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn the washer off, then turn it on again; this clears CL on these models. 2. Or turn Child Lock off at the control panel. 3. Shut the door and run the cycle again. 4. If the code keeps returning on its own, request service.

! Why to stop there

If CL returns without anyone setting it, we test the panel and door switch.
We look at whether the water level reading triggers a drain.
A panel button held down can set it too, which we rule out.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

Hot & Medium / Hot & MidSamsung Washer Hot and Medium, or Hot and Mid Lights Blinking: Heater Error Hot & Small / Hot & LowSamsung Washer Hot and Small, or Hot and Low Lights Blinking: Hoses Swapped Hot & Tap Cold / Hot & CoolSamsung Washer Hot and Tap Cold, or Hot and Cool Lights Blinking: MEMS Sensor Error Hot & WarmSamsung Washer Hot and Warm Lights Blinking: Unbalanced Load Self Clean LED blinkingSamsung Washer Self Clean Light Lights Blinking: Cleaning Reminder Small / LowSamsung Washer Small or Low Lights Blinking: No Drain Tap Cold / Cool / Medium / MidSamsung Washer Tap Cold, Cool, Medium, or Mid Lights Blinking: Overflow WarmSamsung Washer Warm Lights Blinking: Communication Error

CLCL questions

How do I get rid of CL?

Turn the washer off and on, or switch Child Lock off at the control panel. Either one usually clears it. If it reappears by itself, tell us, since a panel button may be involved.

Why did my washer drain water with CL showing?

On newer models Child Lock can drain water when the door is opened at an unsafe level. The washer is protecting against spilling. Close the door and restart.

Does CL mean something is broken?

No. It is a safety lock. If it keeps coming back without anyone touching it, a panel button or the door switch may be involved, and we can check that.

Book a visit

Still unsure about CL?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 561-5298