Want a regional phone & address? Pick your area.
Samsung·Washermedium severity
Samsung Error Code 5C
Drain error
Common Causes
- 1Clogged filter
- 2Kinked drain hose
- 3Drain pump blockage
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- 1
Open the small access door at the bottom-front of the washer to reach the drain filter. Place towels and a shallow pan underneath — water will come out. Turn the filter cap counterclockwise to remove
- 2
Clean the filter of lint, coins, hair pins, and other debris. Also look inside the filter housing with a flashlight for anything lodged deeper in the pump impeller
- 3
Check the drain hose at the back of the machine — it should not be kinked, and the standpipe insertion should be 6-8 inches deep (not pushed in all the way, which causes siphoning)
- 4
If the filter is clean and the hose is clear, the drain pump motor may be failed. Access it from the bottom of the machine and test — it should hum when powered. If it hums but does not pump, the impeller is broken
Pro Diagnostic Tip
Before replacing the drain pump, always run a spin-only cycle with an empty drum. If the pump works fine empty but throws 5C with a load, the issue is usually a partially clogged drain hose or standpipe — not the pump itself.
You Might Also Notice
- •Water remains in the drum after the cycle ends
- •Washer stops mid-cycle with water still inside
- •Slow draining with gurgling sounds
- •Foul smell from the washer (standing water)
Parts, Cost & Difficulty
Repair Difficulty
Moderate — Some Experience NeededEstimated Repair Cost
$100–$250
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
Drain pump assembly (Samsung DC31-00054A)Drain filter cap O-ring if leaking after cleaningDrain hose (Samsung DC97-17998A) if cracked or kinked permanently
Do You Have the Right Tools?
Bearing puller set ($120), drum spider wrench ($85), multimeter ($85), and diagnostic software. Our technician arrives with $15K+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
What This Repair Involves
Here's what a professional technician does to resolve this issue:
Clean drain filter and check drain hose
This repair requires bearing pullers, drum spider wrenches, and diagnostic software for control board calibration. Most homeowners find it safer and more cost-effective to have a licensed technician handle it.
Safety First — Know the Risks
High-voltage components and pressurized water lines create flood and shock risk. A single loose fitting can cause thousands in water damage. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
Ready to Get This Fixed?
Don't let error code 5C disrupt your day. A professional diagnosis takes about 30 minutes — and it's free when you proceed with the repair.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Appointments Available
4.85 (232 verified reviews)
Same-Day Appliance Repair
Fixed or It's Free
$89 → $0 Service Call & Diagnosis — offer ends May 31
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Samsung error code 5C mean?
Samsung error code 5C indicates: Drain error. This is a medium-severity issue affecting your washer.
How do I fix Samsung error code 5C?
Open the small access door at the bottom-front of the washer to reach the drain filter. Place towels and a shallow pan underneath — water will come out. Turn the filter cap counterclockwise to remove Then, Clean the filter of lint, coins, hair pins, and other debris. Also look inside the filter housing with a flashlight for anything lodged deeper in the pump impeller Then, Check the drain hose at the back of the machine — it should not be kinked, and the standpipe insertion should be 6-8 inches deep (not pushed in all the way, which causes siphoning) There are 1 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. If these steps don't resolve the error, contact a professional.
How do I know if my washer has error 5C?
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: Water remains in the drum after the cycle ends; Washer stops mid-cycle with water still inside; Slow draining with gurgling sounds. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your washer's display panel for error code 5C.
How much does it cost to fix Samsung 5C?
Repair costs for Samsung 5C typically range from $100 to $250 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.