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Samsung Dishwasher 5C / 5E / SC / SE Error Code
Dishwasher is not draining. Here is what it means and how to clear it, easiest fix first.
Water isn't leaving the tub when it should. The usual causes are a clogged filter, a kinked or pinched drain hose, a blocked sink drain or garbage disposal, or debris jammed in the drain pump.
5C and SC (or 5E and SE) are the same code; the display just shows the 5 like an S. The Canadian list also includes SR. UK models use 5C2 when the drain pump fails to start or stalls. For OC / OE (too much water), see that entry.
How to fix Samsung 5C / 5E / SC / SE
Check the sink drain and disposal
Run the sink faucet for about 30 seconds. If the sink itself drains slowly, the blockage is in the home plumbing and a plumber is the right call. If a garbage disposal was recently installed, make sure its knockout plug was removed.
Check the drain hose
Make sure the dishwasher isn't sitting on its drain hose and the hose isn't kinked. The hose should have an air gap or a high loop that rises above its connection under the sink, so dirty water can't flow back in.
Clean the filter
Switch off the breaker or unplug the dishwasher first. Remove the bottom rack, take out the filter at the bottom of the tub (your manual shows how), and rinse it under running water with a soft brush. Refit it so it locks in place.
Check the sump for debris
With power still off and the filter out, look into the sump at the bottom of the tub for glass, bones, or labels that could jam the pump. Wear gloves and remove what you can reach by hand. Reassemble every part exactly as it came out.
When to call a technician
If the sink drains fine, the hose is clear, and the filter and sump are clean but the code returns, request service for the drain pump.
Parts that commonly cause 5C / 5E / SC / SE
- Drain pump
- Drain hose
- Filter assembly
Order parts by your exact model number so they fit.
Other Samsung dishwasher codes
- 4C / 4ENot enough water coming in
- OC / 0C / OEToo much water in the tub (overfill)
- LC / LELeak detected
- 1E / IEClogged filter or overheating (depends on model)
- HC / HEHeater or overheating error
- tE / tCTemperature sensor error
- 3CWash pump error
- 3EIncoming water too hot (US) or pump error (UK/AU)
- 9E / 1CLow water level
- 7E / 7CWaterwall reflector blocked or misplaced
- bE / 6E / 6CStuck button
- CE / ACCommunication error between boards
- PC / PEZone Wash or Half Load error
- 9C1 / 9E1 / UCPower supply problem
- DCDoor not closed properly
- APWi-Fi setup mode (not a fault)
Frequently asked questions
What does 5C / 5E / SC / SE mean on a Samsung dishwasher?
Water isn't leaving the tub when it should. The usual causes are a clogged filter, a kinked or pinched drain hose, a blocked sink drain or garbage disposal, or debris jammed in the drain pump.
Can I fix Samsung 5C / 5E / SC / SE myself?
Usually, yes. Most 5C / 5E / SC / SE problems clear with simple checks you can do at home. Start with the first step above: check the sink drain and disposal.
What if 5C / 5E / SC / SE keeps coming back?
A code that returns after a reset and the checks above usually means a part is wearing out. Note when 5C / 5E / SC / SE appears (which cycle, how often) and have your model number ready; it helps a technician bring the right part on the first visit.
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.