Samsung · Washing Machine

5E

Drain Error — Water Not Draining

Severity

High

When a Samsung Washing Machine shows 5E on its display, the internal diagnostic system has flagged a condition known as "Drain Error — Water Not Draining". Most repairs for this code are straightforward and can be completed at home.

Owner's Summary

Your washer is full of water and cannot pump it out. The most likely culprit is a clogged filter full of lint, coins, or debris. This is a very common fix that most homeowners can do themselves in 15 minutes.

Symptoms

Water remains in drum after cycle, machine stops, display shows 5E or nE

Common Causes

Clogged pump drain filter (most common cause)
Kinked or blocked drain hose
Faulty drain pump motor
Drain hose installed too low causing siphoning

How to Fix

1 Locate and clean the pump filter behind the small panel at the front bottom
2 Straighten drain hose and ensure it is installed at the correct height (min 24 inches)
3 Run a spin-only cycle to test drainage
4 Replace the drain pump if filter is clean but still not draining

Tools You'll Need

Screwdriver Set Pliers Soft Brush Towels / Bucket

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

The drain pump is monitored by the control board via current draw. If the expected water level drop — sensed by the pressure transducer — does not occur within the programmed drain window, the board cuts the pump, logs 5E and flags a drain fault.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Do not leave wet laundry sitting in a non-draining drum for more than a few hours — mold and odor will develop. Fix this same day if possible.

Technician's Pro Tip

Put old towels down before opening the filter cap — a full drum can release several gallons of water. Turn the cap slowly. This is the single most common Samsung washer repair and is almost always the filter.

Related Codes

E2 — Samsung Washing Machine

Water Supply Error

High

4E — Samsung Washing Machine

No Water Supply Detected

High

E9 — Samsung Washing Machine

Overflow Error — Water Level Too High

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 5E mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?

Code 5E on a Samsung Washing Machine indicates "Drain Error — Water Not Draining." In practice, the most common trigger is clogged pump drain filter (most common cause). Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $200.

Can I fix 5E myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of 5E can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: locate and clean the pump filter behind the small panel at the front bottom. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my washing machine with code 5E showing?

Do not leave wet laundry sitting in a non-draining drum for more than a few hours — mold and odor will develop. Fix this same day if possible.

How much does it cost to repair 5E on a Samsung Washing Machine?

Repair costs for code 5E typically range from $0 to $200. Filter cleaning: $0 DIY; Drain pump replacement: $60–$200 + labor. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$0 – $200

Filter cleaning: $0 DIY; Drain pump replacement: $60–$200 + labor