Samsung Dishwasher 5C/5E Error: Drainage Fix

The 5C or 5E error code on Samsung dishwashers indicates a drainage failure—water cannot exit the dishwasher within the expected timeframe. This is one of the most common Samsung dishwasher errors and is usually caused by a clogged filter or drain hose issue.

What the 5C/5E Error Code Means

When your Samsung dishwasher displays 5C (or 5E, SC, SE on various models), the control board has detected that:

• Water isn’t draining from the tub, OR
• Water is draining too slowly to complete within the programmed time

The dishwasher will stop the cycle and display this error to prevent overflow or damage.

Model Coverage

This guide applies to Samsung dishwashers displaying 5C, 5E, SC, or SE error codes:

• DW80CG, DW80BB, DW80B series (2022+)
• DW80R, DW80T series (2019-2022)
• DW80M, DW80K, DW80J, DW80N series (2015-2020)

The code variations depend on model year—all indicate the same drainage problem.

Common Causes

The 5C/5E error typically results from:

1. Clogged fine filter at bottom of tub (most common—70%+ of cases)
2. Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed on new installations
3. Kinked drain hose (especially after moving dishwasher)
4. Missing high loop in drain hose causing backflow
5. Debris in drain pump impeller (glass shards, food particles)

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Run the Garbage Disposal

Many Samsung dishwashers drain through the garbage disposal. Food buildup at this connection point is a common cause.

1. Turn on the kitchen faucet (cold water)
2. Run the garbage disposal for 30 seconds
3. Turn off disposal, then turn off water
4. Restart the dishwasher drain cycle

Step 2: Clean the Drain Filter

The filter at the bottom of the tub catches food debris and is the most common cause of 5C/5E errors.

1. Open the dishwasher door and remove the bottom rack
2. Locate the cylindrical filter assembly at the bottom center of the tub
3. Rotate the filter handle counterclockwise and lift to remove
4. Remove the flat micro filter beneath it
5. Rinse both filters under running water
6. Use a soft brush to remove stubborn debris
7. Check the sump area (the cavity under the filter) and wipe out any debris
8. Reinstall the micro filter, then the cylindrical filter (turn clockwise to lock)

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose High Loop

Improper drain hose installation causes water to siphon back into the dishwasher.

1. Open the cabinet under the sink
2. Locate the dishwasher drain hose (usually corrugated black or gray)
3. Verify the hose rises to a high point (high loop) before descending to the drain connection
4. The high loop should be secured under the countertop, above the drain inlet
5. If no high loop exists, secure the hose at its highest practical point using a hose clamp or zip tie

Step 4: Check the Garbage Disposal Knockout Plug

For new installations or recently replaced disposals, verify the knockout plug was removed.

1. Disconnect power to the garbage disposal (unplug or turn off breaker)
2. Look into the disposal inlet where the dishwasher hose connects
3. If you see a solid plastic disc, the knockout plug is still in place
4. Remove the plug by inserting a screwdriver into the disposal and tapping it out
5. Retrieve the knocked-out plug from inside the disposal
6. Restore power to the disposal

Safety warning: Never put your hand inside a garbage disposal. Always disconnect power first.

Step 5: Inspect for Kinked Drain Hose

A kinked hose restricts water flow significantly.

1. Pull the dishwasher out slightly to access the back
2. Trace the drain hose from the dishwasher to the drain connection
3. Straighten any kinks or sharp bends
4. Ensure the hose isn’t pinched between the dishwasher and cabinet
5. Check for cracks or damage—replace damaged hoses

Step 6: Power Cycle

After completing physical checks, reset the dishwasher:

1. Press Power to turn off
2. Turn off the circuit breaker
3. Wait 5 minutes
4. Restore power and turn on
5. Run a drain/rinse cycle to test

Tools and Parts Needed

• Towels
• Gloves (sharp debris may be present)
• Shallow pan or container
• Soft brush (toothbrush works)
• Flashlight
• Screwdriver (if removing knockout plug)

Safety Warnings

• Wear gloves when cleaning the filter—broken glass, bones, or other sharp debris may be present in the sump area
• Disconnect power to garbage disposal before inspecting the knockout plug
• Never reach into a garbage disposal
• Unplug or turn off breaker before accessing dishwasher internal components

When to Call a Tech

Contact a professional if:

• Filter and drain hose are clear but 5C/5E persists
• You hear humming from the pump area but no water drains
• The drain pump is completely silent (may indicate motor failure)
• Water backs up from the sink when dishwasher drains
• You notice the pump running continuously

These symptoms suggest the drain pump motor has failed or there’s a blockage in the pump housing itself, which requires removing the pump for service.

Typical repair cost: Drain pump replacement runs $150-250 including parts and labor.

Sources

For official Samsung support:

• Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes
• Samsung Dishwasher Drainage Troubleshooting
• Samsung US Support

Related Guides

• Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes: Complete Guide
• Samsung Dishwasher OC Error: Overflow Fix
• How to Reset a Samsung Dishwasher