Samsung dryer C1 / CL1: laundry detected during vent test

Samsung says C1/CL1 during the Vent Blockage test means laundry was detected in the drum.

What this guide covers

Error codes: C1, CL1

This guide follows a structured decision tree built from manufacturer troubleshooting information. It does not assume that the most commonly replaced part is the failed part, and it does not show an exact-fit replacement part unless model compatibility has been independently verified.

Continue this exact diagnostic

Safe troubleshooting sequence

Start with the observations and external checks that can be verified without opening energized assemblies. The interactive version asks these in order and changes the path based on your answers.

1. Empty the dryer drumThe vent test must be run with the drum empty.

What the answers can lead to

When professional diagnosis is the safer next step

Samsung directs owners to support when the test still detects laundry in an empty drum.

Appliance Verdict stops before energized electrical testing, gas-system work, sealed-system work, and other checks that can create unnecessary risk. A technician can use the model, issue, and completed checks from the interactive diagnostic as a starting point.

Repair or replace?

A diagnosis and a repair decision are different questions. Once you have a real repair quote, compare the total repair cost with the all-in price of a comparable replacement. Warranty or protection-plan coverage, appliance age, reliability history, efficiency, and likely future repairs can all matter. Appliance Verdict’s interactive result includes a transparent cost comparison rather than a black-box replacement recommendation.

Manufacturer sources

Samsung Support

Dataset reviewed through 2026-09-11. Appliance Verdict is independent and is not endorsed by the manufacturers cited. Always follow the exact owner or service documentation for your model.

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