Samsung washer 5E error code
- Washer
Samsung washer 5E (shown as 5C or SE on some displays) means the tub did not drain in time. The coin trap and emergency drain filter on front-load models clog with coins, bobby pins, and lint. On WF45R6100 and similar models the filter access is behind a small door at the lower front — have towels ready before opening it.
Reviewed August 2025 · sources below
Safe to keep using?
Use caution
This issue may worsen during use — limit operation and address promptly.
- • Turn off the water supply before disconnecting hoses.
Next step
Still seeing 5E?
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How to fix 5E
- Unplug the washer and open the drain filter access panel on the lower front.
- Place a shallow pan under the filter, then slowly unscrew the cap to drain residual water.
- Remove debris from the filter and pump cavity. Reinstall the cap tightly.
- Verify the drain hose is not kinked and the standpipe allows an air gap — do not seal the hose into the pipe.
- Run a Spin cycle. If 5E returns, the drain pump (DC31-00054A on many models) may need replacement.
Call a pro when: Call a technician if the filter housing leaks after reassembly or the pump smells burned.
What 5E means
Drain error — washer unable to drain water.
Video: how to fix 5E
Buy the replacement part
Likely causes
Lint, coins, or debris block the drain path.
Check: Access the drain filter (usually behind a lower front panel) and clean it.
Est. cost: $0–$0
Hose crushed behind washer or blocked at standpipe.
Check: Inspect drain hose from tub to wall standpipe.
Est. cost: $0–$20
Pump motor or impeller fails after repeated clogs.
Check: Listen for pump hum with no drainage; check for obstructions first.
Est. cost: $35–$65 · DIY ~5/10
Part: Samsung Washer Drain Pump (MPN DC31-00054A)
Guided repair checklist
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Start with this check before considering replacement parts.
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Unplug the washer and open the drain filter access panel on the lower front.
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Questions about 5E
What does 5E mean on Samsung washer?
5E is a drain error — water remained in the tub after the drain cycle. Clogged filters cause most 5E codes.
How do I fix 5E error on Samsung washing machine?
Clean the drain filter, fix hose routing, unplug for 5 minutes, and rerun. Replace the drain pump only if water still will not drain.
Are 5E, 5C, SE, and SC the same?
On Samsung washers they usually indicate the same drain fault. SC is grouped with 5C and 5E as a no-drain code.
How do I fix a Samsung washer 5E error code?
5E means the washer did not drain. Clean the pump filter and the drain hose before replacing the drain pump.
How do I reset a Samsung washer 5E error?
Clear the drain path, then unplug for 5 minutes. 5E clears after a cycle that empties the tub.
How do I reset Samsung 5E?
Clean the filter, fix hose routing, unplug for 5 minutes, and rerun a cycle.
When do I replace the drain pump?
If the impeller does not spin freely or the pump hums without draining after the filter is clear.
Samsung 5E on specific models
Other Samsung Washer codes
Prevent this problem next time
- Clean drain filter monthly
- Check pockets before washing
- Ensure drain hose is not kinked
Sources
Manufacturer meaning
The washer detected a drain problem — water is not leaving the tub in time.
FixApplianceCode guidance
Check the drain filter and pump area before ordering parts.
Source type: Manufacturer
Source: Samsung support documentation
Last reviewed: 2026-08-01
Repair guidance is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee that any fix will resolve your issue, and you assume all risk when following these steps. Terms & disclaimer
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