E9
Drain Error
Your Samsung Dishwasher stopped working and is showing error E9, which corresponds to a fault called "Drain Error". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.
Owner's Summary
Your dishwasher finished its cycle but cannot pump the dirty water out. The filter at the bottom of the tub is the most likely cause — food debris and grease accumulate there and block drainage. Remove it, rinse it under running water, and reinstall.
Symptoms
Samsung dishwasher not draining, standing water at bottom, E9 displayed
Common Causes
- Clogged filter assembly at bottom of tub
- Blocked or kinked drain hose
- Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed on new install
- Faulty drain pump motor
How to Fix
- 1 Remove and clean all three filter components at the bottom of the tub
- 2 Check drain hose under sink for kinks
- 3 If new install connected to disposal — verify knockout plug was removed
- 4 Replace drain pump if filter and hose are clear
Tools You'll Need
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 PCB activates the drain pump relay and monitors the water level sensor. If the sump water level does not drop below the minimum threshold within the allowed drain time, the PCB posts E9 and logs the fault.
Is It Safe to Keep Using?
Standing water is a hygiene concern. Fix within a day. Do not run additional cycles as flooding is possible.
Technician's Pro Tip
On Samsung dishwashers the filter has three parts — the coarse mesh, the fine filter cylinder, and the flat filter at the base. All three must be removed and cleaned. Many users only clean one and wonder why the problem persists.
Related Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error code E9 mean on a Samsung Dishwasher?
Can I fix E9 myself, or do I need a technician?
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code E9 showing?
How much does it cost to repair E9 on a Samsung Dishwasher?
Filter cleaning: $0 DIY; Drain pump: $50–$200 + labor