Samsung Washer 5C Error — Won't Drain (How to Diagnose & Fix)
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The 5C error on Samsung washers (also shown as 5E, SC, or ND on some models) means the machine can't drain water. Common causes are a clogged pump/filter or hose, a seized/failed drain pump motor, or wiring/control issues. Below are step-by-step diagnostics and repair instructions you can follow. Step-by-step diagnostic & repair steps: 1) Quick reset & basic check - Cancel the cycle and unplug the washer for 1 minute, then plug back in and run a Drain & Spin or Spin cycle. Sometimes a control glitch clears and the pump runs. 2) Run a manual drain test - Select the Spin/Drain cycle from the control panel and start. Listen: you should hear the pump motor running (a low hum or whir). If you hear humming but no water exiting, suspect a jammed impeller or blockage. If silent, suspect pump or wiring. 3) Check the drain hose and standpipe - Inspect the drain hose for kinks, crushes, or sagging loops. Disconnect the hose from the standpipe or utility sink and run some water through it (or blow through it) to confirm it's clear. Check the standpipe or sink trap for clogs. 4) Access and clean the pump filter/coin trap (front‑load or pump access models) - Unplug the washer. Open the lower front access panel (or coin trap cover). Place a shallow pan/towels under the trap, slowly open/trip the drain cap to drain the water, then remove debris from the trap. Reinstall and retry the drain cycle. 5) Inspect drain pump and impeller - With the washer unplugged and water drained, remove the access panel to reach the pump. Check for foreign objects (socks, coins, hair) that jam the impeller. Try to turn the impeller by hand—if it’s seized or loose, the pump likely needs replacement. 6) Electrical checks: continuity & voltage (for technicians/homeowners comfortable with multimeter) - Unplug washer. Disconnect pump wiring. Use a multimeter to check motor winding continuity (typical pump motors show low ohms; open circuit indicates failure). Then (with caution) reconnect, set washer to a drain cycle, and measure if 120VAC (or model voltage) is present at the pump connector while the control calls for drain—voltage present + open motor = replace pump; no voltage = control/wiring issue. 7) Replace the drain pump (common fix) - Unplug washer. Remove access panel. Disconnect hoses and electrical connector(s) from pump. Remove mounting screws/clips and take out the old pump. Install the replacement pump (match orientation), reconnect hoses (use new clamps if corroded), connect wiring, secure mounting, replace panels, and test with a Drain/Spin cycle. 8) If pump replaced but still no drain - Inspect wiring harness for damaged wires or loose connectors. If no pump voltage during drain command, the problem is likely the main control board or a failed timer/relay—these require further diagnosis or replacement of the control board. Safety note: Always unplug the washer (or turn off the breaker) before opening panels. Expect water to spill when you open the pump/filter or disconnect hoses—have towels and a shallow pan ready. If you are not comfortable with electrical testing or working under the machine, hire a trained appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
Washer displays 5C (or 5E/ND/SC), water remains in drum after cycle, washer won’t spin, long cycle times, audible humming or silence when pump should run.
Common Causes
- Clogged pump filter, coin trap, or drain hose (blockage preventing water exit)
- Failed or seized drain pump motor (worn bearings, broken impeller, burned windings)
- Wiring fault or control board not supplying power to pump
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Run a manual Drain/Spin and listen closely: a humming pump with no water leaving usually means a jammed impeller or clogged outlet; a completely silent pump during a drain command often means a failed pump motor or lost pump voltage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to fix a 5C drain error?
If the problem is a clog, you can fix it yourself for free or only the cost of basic supplies (towels, screwdriver). A replacement pump (DC31-00054D) typically costs $30–$120 depending on supplier; labor for a technician is commonly $100–$200. If the control board needs replacing, parts + labor will be higher.
Can I keep using the washer if it shows a 5C error?
No — do not keep running cycles with a persistent 5C. Standing water can cause mold, odor, and imbalance, and a failed pump can overheat. Stop using the washer until you clear the clog or repair/replace the pump.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.