5C
Samsung Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The 5C error means your Samsung washer cannot drain the water out. The cycle stops because water is stuck inside the drum. This is usually caused by a clogged filter, a blocked hose, or a drain pump problem. It is a common error that you can often fix yourself at home.
Affected Models
- WF45R6100AW
- WF50R8500AV
- WF45T6000AW
- WF42H5000AW
- Most Samsung front-load and top-load washers
Common Causes
- Clogged debris filter (also called the pump filter) at the bottom front of the washer
- Kinked or crushed drain hose behind the machine
- Drain hose pushed too far into the standpipe — creating a siphon effect
- Foreign objects such as coins, socks, or lint blocking the drain pump
- Faulty drain pump motor that has failed and can no longer pump water out
How to Fix It
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Place old towels and a shallow pan under the access panel at the bottom front of the washer.
There is water inside the machine. The pan will catch it when you open the filter. A standard cookie sheet works well.
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Open the access panel and slowly unscrew the debris filter cap.
Turn it counterclockwise. Water will flow out slowly. Let it drain completely before removing the filter fully.
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Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water.
Check inside the filter housing too — coins, hair pins, and lint often get trapped in there.
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Check the drain hose at the back of the machine for kinks.
The drain hose should go into the standpipe no more than 6 inches deep. Too deep causes siphoning and triggers 5C.
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Reinstall the filter, close the panel, and run a spin-only cycle.
If water drains out normally, the problem is solved. If 5C returns, the drain pump likely needs replacement.
When to Call a Professional
If the filter is clean, the hose is clear, and the 5C error keeps returning, the drain pump has likely failed. A broken pump requires disassembly and part replacement. Contact Samsung support or a qualified appliance repair service. Expect repair costs of $150–$300 for a drain pump replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5C the same as 5E on a Samsung washer?
Yes — they are exactly the same error. 5C appears on newer Samsung models. 5E appears on older ones. Both mean the washer cannot drain water. The causes and fixes are identical.
How often should I clean the debris filter?
Samsung recommends cleaning it every 2 months. If you wash pet bedding or heavily soiled clothes, clean it monthly. A clogged filter is the number one cause of 5C errors. Regular cleaning prevents most drain problems.
My washer is full of water and showing 5C — what do I do first?
Do not try to open the door — water will spill everywhere. First, use the emergency drain by opening the small access panel at the front bottom. Slowly open the filter cap to drain the water into a pan. Once the drum is empty, you can open the door safely.