5C Moderate Easy DIY

Samsung Dishwasher 5C / 5E — Drain Error

Samsung Dishwasher · Error code 5C

What 5C Means

The 5C (older 5E) code means the dishwasher did not drain within the expected time — water is left in the tub.

Symptoms

  • Standing water in the tub
  • Dishes not clean/dry
  • 5C or 5E on the display

Common Causes

1
Clogged filter and sump

Food debris in the bottom filter blocks draining. Clean it first.

2
Clogged drain hose or air gap

A blockage at the hose, air gap, or disposal inlet.

3
Failed drain pump

A pump that will not move water.

How to Fix It

  1. Remove and clean the bottom filter and sump.
  2. Clear the drain hose and air gap; confirm the disposal knockout plug was removed if recently installed.
  3. Test/replace the drain pump if needed.

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Samsung Dishwasher Drain Pump View on Amazon→

Related Repair Guides

Dishwasher Beeping or Lights Flashing — What It Means →Dishwasher Not Draining — How to Fix Standing Water →

More Samsung Dishwasher Codes

1C 1C — Low water level / fails to start 1E 1E / IE — Filter clogged / heater fault 3C 3C Error — Wash Pump Failure 3E 3E — Hot water supply too hot 4C 4C / 4E — Water Supply Error 4C5 4C5 / 4E5 — Fill timeout with dry tub

All Samsung codes → All dishwasher codes →

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.