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Samsung Washer 5C Error Code

Washer is not draining. What it means, which models show it, and how to clear it, easiest fix first.

SamsungAll Samsung washer codes

5C
Moderate DIY

The washer could not pump water out of the tub fast enough, or at all. Common causes are a clogged pump filter on front-load models, a kinked or blocked drain hose, a hose installed at the wrong height, or a clogged house drain. A failed drain pump is the usual part to blame when those check out.

Compatible models

Samsung doesn't publish a model list for this code; it appears on Samsung washers with a digital display. Check your owner's manual.

Also shown as

Also shown as 5E, nd, SE, SC, or 1 5C depending on the model. SC and SE are usually 5C and 5E shown on a display where the 5 looks like an S. Do not confuse it with Sd or 5d, which mean too many suds.

Difficulty

Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.

Safety first: unplug the washer (or switch off its breaker) before touching filters, hoses or panels. If you smell burning or gas, or see water near the outlet, stop and call a professional.

How to fix Samsung 5C

  1. Check the drain hose

    Turn the washer off. Make sure the drain hose is not kinked or crushed, goes 6 to 8 inches into the standpipe without sealing it airtight, and rises between 18 and 96 inches above the floor (Samsung gives tighter limits when draining into a laundry sink, so check your manual). Samsung advises against drain hose extensions.

  2. Check the house drain

    Pour a bucket of water down the standpipe or laundry sink. If it backs up, the clog is in your home plumbing rather than the washer and needs clearing first.

  3. Clean the pump filter (front-load only)

    If you recently ran a hot cycle such as Sanitize, give the water roughly an hour to cool so it cannot scald you. Unplug the washer, open the small access panel at the bottom front, and let the water out through the short rubber hose into a shallow pan, emptying it as often as needed. Then twist the filter counterclockwise to remove it, rinse out lint and debris, and screw it back in firmly. Top-load Samsung washers have no user-removable pump filter.

  4. Run a test cycle

    Plug the washer back in and start a rinse and spin or drain cycle. It should start pumping water out within the first minute or two.

When to call a technician

If the hose and filter are clear but the washer still will not drain, or you hear humming with no water moving, the drain pump likely needs replacement by a technician. Also request service if the holder that secures the drain hose to the back of the washer is missing or the hose is damaged.

Parts linked to 5C

These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.

Order parts by your full model number so they fit.

Frequently asked questions

What does 5C mean on a Samsung washer?

The washer could not pump water out of the tub fast enough, or at all. Common causes are a clogged pump filter on front-load models, a kinked or blocked drain hose, a hose installed at the wrong height, or a clogged house drain. A failed drain pump is the usual part to blame when those check out.

Which Samsung models show the 5C code?

Samsung doesn't publish a model list for this code; it appears on Samsung washers with a digital display. Check your owner's manual.

Can I fix Samsung 5C myself?

Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear 5C, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.

What if 5C keeps coming back?

A code that returns after a reset and the checks above usually means a part is wearing out. Note when 5C appears (which cycle, how often) and have your model number ready; it helps a technician bring the right part on the first visit.

Other Samsung washer codes

Last reviewed 2026-10-19. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.

Sources we checked