Samsung SE Error Code - Causes & Fix

Samsung SE Error Code — What It Means

The SE error code (also displayed as 5C, 5E, or SC on some Samsung dishwasher models) indicates a drain error. The machine is having trouble draining water from the tub within the expected time. Samsung support describes this as a difficulty in draining water, not a complete failure, but the dishwasher will stop the cycle to prevent overflow or other damage.

This code points to a blockage or restriction somewhere in the drain path, from the sump at the bottom of the tub all the way through the drain hose to your home plumbing. The dishwasher’s control board sets the code when the water level sensor detects standing water after the drain pump has run for its programmed cycle time.

Jump to Fix

Common Causes

• Pinched, kinked, or clogged drain hose Samsung lists this first as the most common cause, where the flexible drain hose is bent too sharply under the sink or has collected debris inside.
• Blocked filter or sump area Food particles, broken glass, or other debris lodge in the fine filter or the sump housing below it, preventing water from reaching the drain pump.
• Restricted sink drain or garbage disposal connection A clogged disposal, closed knockout plug, or blocked tailpiece stops wastewater from leaving the dishwasher even when the pump runs correctly.
• Failed or sticking drain pump The pump motor burns out, the impeller jams on debris, or internal corrosion prevents the pump from spinning at full speed.
• Clogged check valve or drain valve diaphragm A stuck check valve or torn diaphragm in the drain assembly allows water to flow backward or restricts forward flow during the drain cycle.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Disconnect power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit to make it safe for inspection and avoid injury.
2. Inspect the drain hose routing under the sink for sharp kinks, pinches where it passes through the cabinet, or sags that form a low trap where debris settles.
3. Remove and clean the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub by twisting it counterclockwise (consult your model’s manual for the exact motion), then rinse away all food particles and check the sump cavity below the filter for foreign objects.
4. Check the sink drain and garbage disposal connection by removing the dishwasher drain hose from the disposal inlet or tailpiece and verifying that water flows freely, and confirm any disposal knockout plug was removed during installation.
5. Run a manual drain test by restoring power, starting a rinse cycle, and canceling it to trigger a drain, watching and listening for the drain pump to spin and water to evacuate within two to three minutes.
6. Inspect the drain pump and impeller by accessing the pump housing (usually from beneath the unit or behind a lower panel), removing the cover, and checking for debris wrapped around the impeller or a seized motor shaft.
7. Test the drain pump electrically by measuring for continuity across the pump motor terminals (if your model’s service data provides resistance values) or by applying direct voltage if you have verified the wiring and control board are sending the correct signal, then replace the pump if it fails to spin.

Parts Often Needed

When to Call a Pro

Call a pro if you have cleared the filter, straightened the hose, verified the sink drain is open, and the SE code returns immediately on the next cycle. Persistent drain errors after those checks usually mean a failed pump, a control board fault sending incorrect signals, or a wiring problem between the board and the pump. A technician can measure pump voltage during the drain cycle, test the water-level sensor, and access Samsung service mode diagnostics to isolate the fault without replacing parts by trial. Also call for service if you are uncomfortable working under the dishwasher or disconnecting plumbing and electrical connections.