What C1 / CL1 Means
C1 or CL1 during the vent blockage test means laundry has been detected inside the drum, per Samsung’s US dryer article. The test needs an empty drum to measure airflow, so it stops rather than giving a false reading. Samsung’s step is to remove the laundry and retry, and to request service only if the result appears with the drum truly empty.
Common Causes of C1 / CL1
- Laundry left in the drum when the test was started
- Residue on the moisture sensor bars reading as a load
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Open the door, take everything out of the drum including any dryer sheet or small item stuck to the back wall, close the door and start the vent test again. If C1 returns on an empty drum, the moisture sensor bars inside the drum may be coated with residue; with the dryer off and cool, wipe them with a damp cloth and let them dry before trying again.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- Only an empty, clean drum that still reports laundry points at the sensor, and that is worth confirming before a visit.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.