Error code guide5C / 5E

Samsung washer 5C / 5E error: the washer is not draining

Samsung uses 5C / 5E for a drainage problem on supported washing machines. The first checks are the drain hose, its installation, and the user-accessible debris or pump filter where the model provides one.

Model check required. Drain-filter access and hose installation details vary by model. Use the exact model manual before removing covers or assuming a front-loader procedure applies.

Reviewed Sep 29, 20265 minute guideWashing machineSamsung front-load and top-load model families that use the 5C / 5E no-drain code family

Quick answer

Samsung 5E / 5C means the washer is not draining correctly on supported models. Start with the drain hose and its installation, then clean only the debris or pump filter your exact model makes user-accessible. Top-load models can use the same code but may not share front-loader filter access.

Start here: Check the drain hose before resetting. Straighten kinks, look for freezing or blockage, and confirm the hose is installed at the height required by the model manual.

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Guided check

Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.

0/3 checked

1. What best matches what you observe?

2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.

Check the drain hose before resettingStraighten kinks, look for freezing or blockage, and confirm the hose is installed at the height required by the model manual.SafeDrain retained water safelyIf your model has an emergency drain hose or user procedure, unplug the washer and follow the manual before opening a filter.CautionClean the user-accessible debris filter if fittedSome front-load models provide a front filter access point. Do not assume a top-loader or another model has the same access; follow the exact model manual.Caution

Stop before internal pump or wiring workIf the hose and accessible filter are clear but 5C / 5E returns, internal pump or electrical diagnosis requires qualified service.Professional

3 user-level checks are available in this guide.Stop immediately if any warning condition applies.

Show stop conditions

Water is reaching electrical parts or the floor
The pump smells burned or the washer trips a breaker
The next step requires opening the washer or electrical testing

Likely causes

The drain hose is kinked, frozen, blocked, or installed incorrectly
The user-accessible debris or drain-pump filter is clogged
The washer cannot move water out at the expected rate
A drain pump or related electrical fault remains after external blockages are ruled out

Quick checks, in order

Check the drain hose before resetting

Straighten kinks, look for freezing or blockage, and confirm the hose is installed at the height required by the model manual.

safe

Drain retained water safely

If your model has an emergency drain hose or user procedure, unplug the washer and follow the manual before opening a filter.

caution

Clean the user-accessible debris filter if fitted

Some front-load models provide a front filter access point. Do not assume a top-loader or another model has the same access; follow the exact model manual.

caution

Stop before internal pump or wiring work

If the hose and accessible filter are clear but 5C / 5E returns, internal pump or electrical diagnosis requires qualified service.

Professional

What happens when the washer tries to drain?

Pump runs but little or no water leaves

A blocked hose, filter, or drain connection is the first place to look.

Water drains slowly

Check hose routing, standpipe or spigot installation, and the accessible filter.

No drain-pump sound

After external checks, the pump, wiring, or control may need qualified diagnosis.

Stop and get qualified help when

Do not continue troubleshooting if any of these apply:

Water is reaching electrical parts or the floor
The pump smells burned or the washer trips a breaker
The next step requires opening the washer or electrical testing

Official support and model manuals

Use the full model number from the rating label. The manufacturer manual is the deciding reference when codes differ by region or product family.

Samsung UK: Resolve a 5E or 5C washing-machine error Samsung US: Washing machine information and error codes

Frequently asked questions

What does 5E or 5C mean on a Samsung washing machine?

Samsung defines 5E / 5C as a drainage issue on supported models. A blocked or kinked drain hose and a clogged debris filter are common first checks.

How do I fix 5E on a Samsung top-load washer?

Start with the drain hose and its installation. Samsung also uses 5C in top-load diagnostics, but filter access differs by model, so do not copy front-loader filter instructions unless your manual shows that access.

Is Samsung 5E the same as 5D or Sd?

No. 5E / 5C is a no-drain code family, while 5D / Sd / SUD is used for excessive suds on supported models.

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Keep diagnosing

Samsung specifically defines dC3 (and ddC) as an Add Door error on washer models equipped with that small secondary door. The control cannot confirm that the Add Door is closed and locked, so troubleshooting should stay focused on the Add Door opening, latch, trapped items, and visible damage rather than the main washer door.

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