Samsung Washer 5C Error — Won't Drain? How to Fix It
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Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The Samsung "5C" (or 5c / 5E on some models) error means the washer cannot drain properly. That can be caused by a blocked drain hose, clogged filter/sump, jammed impeller, or a failed drain pump motor. Follow these numbered diagnostics and repair steps to find and fix the issue. Diagnostic & repair steps: 1) Safety & prep: Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply. Move the washer away from the wall so you can access the back and (if front-load) the bottom/front access panel. Have towels, a shallow pan, pliers, flat-head screwdriver, Philips screwdriver, and a multimeter ready. 2) Reset and recheck: Sometimes an electronic glitch clears by resetting. Unplug for 1 minute, plug back in and run a Drain/Spin cycle. If error returns immediately or water remains, continue. 3) Check the drain hose and drain path: - Inspect the drain hose for kinks, sharp bends, or visible clogs. Remove it from the standpipe and check for blockages by running water through it or pushing a flexible rod. - Verify the hose is installed at the proper height (usually 24"–40" / check your manual) and not submerged in standing water. - Check the home drain/standpipe for a clog by running water down it. 4) Check the lint trap / pump filter (front-load washers): - If your model has a removable pump filter, open the access panel or kickplate, place towels and a pan under the filter, slowly open it to drain residual water and remove trapped debris (coins, hair, socks). Clean and reinstall. 5) Listen to the pump on a drain attempt: - Start a Drain/Spin cycle and stand close to the washer. If you hear a humming or buzzing but no water moving, the pump is getting power but the impeller may be jammed or the motor stalled. - If you hear nothing at all, the pump may not be getting power or is electrically dead. 6) Test the drain pump motor electrically: - Remove power. Access the drain pump (usually at the bottom front or back). Disconnect the pump connector and use a multimeter to check continuity. A typical working pump will show continuity (low to moderate ohms); an open circuit indicates a failed motor. Note: exact ohms vary by model; the key is the presence of continuity versus an open circuit. 7) Inspect pump for foreign objects: - Remove the pump and inspect the impeller and inlet ports. Remove any coins, buttons, socks, or buildup that can jam the impeller. - If the impeller spins freely by hand and electrical test passes, reassemble and test. If it still fails, replace the pump. 8) Replace the drain pump (if required): - Tools: Philips/flat screwdrivers, pliers, towel/bucket. - Steps: unplug washer, shut off water, drain residual water into bucket, remove access panel or tilt washer as needed, take photos of hose/wire locations. - Loosen hose clamps and disconnect hoses from the pump (expect water). Disconnect the pump electrical connector. Remove mounting screws/clips and remove the pump assembly. - Install new pump (align, secure screws/clips), reconnect hoses and clamps, plug in electrical connector, reinstall panels. - Run a test drain cycle to confirm the error is gone and there are no leaks. 9) When to call a pro: If the pump gets power, passes continuity, and is unobstructed but still won’t pump, or if wiring/control board issues are suspected, call a qualified appliance technician. Safety note: Always unplug the washer and turn off water before doing any service. Drain hoses and pump contain water—use towels and a pan. If you're uncomfortable with electrical testing or removing panels, hire a professional.
Common Symptoms
Washer displays 5C (or 5E) and stops mid-cycle; water remains in the drum; slow or no draining; buzzing/humming noise from the base; occasional leaks when the pump is jammed.
Common Causes
- Clogged or kinked drain hose or blocked home drain/standpipe
- Foreign object (coin, sock, debris) blocking the pump impeller or filter
- Failed drain pump motor or seized impeller
- Wiring harness or connector fault to the pump
- Control board or drain circuit failure (less common)
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
If the pump hums but the impeller doesn’t spin, reach in (power off) and try to spin the impeller by hand—if it’s seized or full of debris the pump should be replaced. Also, a multimeter reading of open circuit on the pump motor indicates a bad pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using the washer when it shows 5C?
No — do not ignore it. A 5C error means the washer cannot drain. Continuing to run cycles risks overflow, water damage, and further damage to the pump. Diagnose and fix the drain issue before regular use.
How much does it cost to fix a 5C error?
If it's a clogged hose or filter, you can often fix it yourself for free or a few dollars for supplies. A replacement drain pump part typically costs $30–$120 depending on model; professional labor adds $100–$200. Total DIY cost is usually under $150; pro repair can range $150–$350.
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