Samsung Washer Error Code 5E (or 5C / nd) - Water Drain Error

Low Severity

Error code 5E (or 5C on newer LED screens) indicates that the washer was unable to pump water out of the drum within the designated drain timeout (usually 10 to 15 minutes).

Appliance: Samsung Washing Machines

Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes

Tools Required: Shallow pan, old towels, flashlight, pliers

⚠ Common Symptoms & Observations

Washer stops mid-cycle before spin; drum remains full of soapy water; door remains locked due to high water level; buzzing sound from the drain pump.

🔍 Root Causes for Code 5E / 5C / nd

Debris filter clogged with coins, hair, lint, or baby socks
drain hose kinked or inserted too far down the standpipe (siphon effect)
drain pump impeller jammed or burnt out
frozen drain hose in cold garages.

🔧 Step-by-Step DIY Troubleshooting & Fix Guide

Unplug washer from power. Locate the small access door at the bottom front right of the machine.

Place a shallow tray and towels on the floor. Pull out the small black rubber emergency drain tube, remove the plug, and drain all trapped water into a container.

Unscrew the debris filter cap counter-clockwise and pull it out. Remove all coins, hairpins, and lint.

Use a flashlight to check the pump impeller inside the housing and ensure it spins freely without obstruction. Reinstall the filter snugly and close the flap.

🔄 Master Reset Procedure for Samsung

Unplug the washer for 10 minutes. Check that the drain hose height is between 39 and 55 inches above the floor to avoid siphoning.

Technician Tip: If the error code reappears immediately after a hard reset, the control board has detected an active electrical open circuit or failed component that requires physical inspection.