ApplianceErrors.com

Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 5C

⚠ High Severity 🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Also shown as: 5E, OC

Drain failure — water not draining from dishwasher

The dishwasher cannot drain within the expected time. Water will remain standing in the bottom of the tub. This usually means the drain pump is blocked or the drain hose is kinked.

💰 DIY cost: $0–$100 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $150–$280 Save $150+ by doing it yourself

What Does Error Code 5C Mean on a Samsung Dishwasher?

Drain failure — water not draining from dishwasher.

The dishwasher cannot drain within the expected time. Water will remain standing in the bottom of the tub. This usually means the drain pump is blocked or the drain hose is kinked.

What Causes Error Code 5C?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Debris blocking the drain filter and sump area 45% of cases
  2. 2
    Kinked or clogged drain hose 25% of cases
  3. 3
    Failed drain pump motor 20% of cases
  4. 4
    Blocked sink drain or garbage disposal knockout plug not removed 10% of cases

How to Fix Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 5C

🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Est. time: 30–60 min
⚡ Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Clean the drain filter

    Remove the bottom rack. Unscrew the cylindrical drain filter (turn counterclockwise), lift out the flat filter underneath, and rinse both under running water. This should be cleaned monthly.

  2. 2

    Check the drain hose

    Trace the drain hose from the back of the dishwasher to the sink drain/garbage disposal. Make sure it has a high loop (up to the underside of the counter) and is not kinked.

  3. 3

    Check garbage disposal

    If connected to a garbage disposal, run the disposal before starting the dishwasher. Also confirm the knockout plug was removed when the disposal was installed.

  4. 4

    Test the drain pump

    If filter and hose are clear, the pump may have failed. You should hear it running when the dishwasher attempts to drain. No sound = possible pump failure.

    🔩 Samsung dishwasher drain pump ($50–$100)
    ⚠️ Unplug before accessing the pump.

How to Reset Error Code 5C

After clearing the blockage, run a rinse cycle. The code clears once a complete drain cycle succeeds.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

When to Call a Professional

Call a pro if the drain filter and hose are clean but the pump is not running — the pump motor or wiring needs testing.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150–$280

Related Error Codes

LC
Leak sensor activated — water detected at base of dishwasher
⚠ High Severity

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Samsung Dishwasher:

🔩
Search PartSelect
Samsung Dishwasher repair parts
🔧
Search RepairClinic
Step-by-step video guides

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 5C mean on a Samsung Dishwasher? +
Drain failure — water not draining from dishwasher
How do I fix error code 5C on my Samsung Dishwasher? +
Start by Remove the bottom rack. Unscrew the cylindrical drain filter (turn counterclockwise), lift out the flat filter underneath, and rinse both under running water. This should be cleaned monthly.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code 5C? +
After clearing the blockage, run a rinse cycle. The code clears once a complete drain cycle succeeds.
Is error code 5C serious? +
This is a high-severity error. You should address it soon. Running the appliance may cause further damage.
← All Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes ← All Samsung Error Codes