Samsung · Washer Moderate

5C — / 5E / SC — Will Not Drain

The 5C / SC (and older 5E) code is a drain error — the washer did not pump the water out within the expected time.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Easy
Typical cost
$40-80
Verified against
samsung.com ↗

The fix

Drain pump assembly

Drain error - washer not draining

$40-80 moderate difficulty 60 min Tools: screwdriver, pliers, towels, shallow pan

Diagnose first: Often just a clogged debris filter behind the front access panel - clean before replacing pump. Check for coins, hair clips, lint.

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Didn't resolve it? Next suspect: Drain pump filter (debris filter) ($10-25)

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How to fix it

  1. Power off and unplug the washer.
  2. Open the front-bottom panel, place a towel, and slowly open the debris filter to drain water.
  3. Clean the filter and housing.
  4. Check the drain hose for clogs and kinks.
  5. Replace the drain pump if it will not move water after cleaning.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Standing water in the drum · Cycle stops mid-wash · 5C, SC, or 5E on the display

  • Clogged debris/pump filter The filter behind the front-bottom access panel traps lint and coins. Most common cause.
  • Clogged or kinked drain hose A blockage or kink where the hose meets the standpipe.
  • Failed drain pump A pump that hums but moves no water has failed.

Related repair guides

Washing Machine Won't Drain — Causes and How to Fix It →

More Samsung washer codes

3C 3C / 3E — Motor Fault 4C 4C / 4E — Water Supply Error 4C2 4C2 — Hot water connected to cold inlet 4E 4E — Water supply error (older code, same as 4C) 5E 5E — Drain error (older code, same as 5C) 8C 8C / 8E — Vibration (MEMS) Sensor Fault

All Samsung codes → All washer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the 5C code mean on a Samsung washer?

The 5C / SC (and older 5E) code is a drain error — the washer did not pump the water out within the expected time.

What causes the 5C code on a Samsung washer?

Clogged debris/pump filter: The filter behind the front-bottom access panel traps lint and coins. Most common cause. Clogged or kinked drain hose: A blockage or kink where the hose meets the standpipe. Failed drain pump: A pump that hums but moves no water has failed.

Is it safe to keep using a Samsung washer with a 5C error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix 5C on a Samsung washer?

Power off and unplug the washer. Open the front-bottom panel, place a towel, and slowly open the debris filter to drain water. Clean the filter and housing.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: samsung.com.