Samsung Washer 5C Code: Not Draining
Updated
Short answer
What 5C (nd, 5E, SE) means
In Samsung's words, condensed: water is not draining from the washer at the correct speed, or at all (a no drain error) (Samsung).
What Samsung says to try
- Turn the washer off and make sure it is level; Samsung says a washer that is not level may not drain correctly.
- Inspect the drain hose: 6 to 8 inches into the standpipe, secured, not airtight, not kinked, at least 18 inches high and not over 96 inches, no extension kit.
- On front-loaders, clean the pump filter (top-loaders have no removable filter).
- Turn the washer back on and start a cycle; it should drain at the beginning.
Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before reaching into any part of it. Codes and steps vary by model, so check your manual too.
If the code comes back
Samsung says incorrect drain hose installation is the most common reason and service is rarely required; if it still will not drain, request service. A washer drain pump replacement runs $150 to $400. (Angi, washing machine repair cost (updated Jul 31, 2026))
Related
All Samsung codes on one page: Samsung appliance repair. The appliance: washer repair. This site is independent and not affiliated with or authorized by Samsung; if the appliance is under warranty, contact Samsung first.
Quick answers
What does 5C (nd, 5E, SE) mean on a Samsung washer?
Samsung says it means water is not draining from the washer at the correct speed, or at all (a no drain error).
How do I clear 5C (nd, 5E, SE)?
Samsung's steps: Turn the washer off and make sure it is level; Samsung says a washer that is not level may not drain correctly. Inspect the drain hose: 6 to 8 inches into the standpipe, secured, not airtight, not kinked, at least 18 inches high and not over 96 inches, no extension kit. On front-loaders, clean the pump filter (top-loaders have no removable filter). Turn the washer back on and start a cycle; it should drain at the beginning.
What does it cost if 5C (nd, 5E, SE) keeps coming back?
Samsung says incorrect drain hose installation is the most common reason and service is rarely required; if it still will not drain, request service. A washer drain pump replacement runs $150 to $400.
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