Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 5E — How to Fix (Drain error)

Decoding Samsung Error 5E

The Samsung Dishwasher error code 5E indicates a drain error, meaning your dishwasher is not draining properly, which can cause water to accumulate in the dishwasher, leading to poor washing performance and potentially causing damage to the appliance. This issue can be caused by a clogged drain hose, a faulty drain pump, or a blockage in the dishwasher’s drain line. If you’re experiencing issues with your Samsung dishwasher’s water heater, you may also want to check out our guide on Samsung Dishwasher Error HE.

What Leads to Error 5E

• Clogged drain hose: The drain hose may be kinked or blocked, preventing the dishwasher from draining properly.
• Faulty drain pump: The drain pump may be malfunctioning, causing the error code 5E.
• Blockage in the dishwasher’s drain line: The dishwasher’s drain line may be clogged or blocked, causing the error code 5E.
• Faulty control board: The control board may be faulty, causing the error code 5E.
• Malfunctioning sensor: A malfunctioning sensor may be triggering the error code 5E.

Extra Tips

If you’re experiencing the Samsung Dishwasher error code 5E, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to avoid any further damage to the appliance. You can find replacement parts, such as the drain pump or control board, on Amazon by searching for the relevant part number. When working with electrical components, be sure to take necessary safety precautions to avoid electrical shock. If safety is a concern at any point during the repair, or don’t have experience with electrical work, consider calling a qualified appliance technician. For warranty information, you can contact Samsung’s customer support at 1-800-SAMSUNG (1-800-726-7864). Regular maintenance, such as checking and cleaning the drain hose and filter, can help prevent the error code 5E from occurring in the future.

Related issue? If your Samsung dishwasher is showing a different error code, see our guide on Samsung Dishwasher Error OC.

Related Samsung Error Codes

If you’re troubleshooting your Samsung dishwasher, these related guides may help:

• Samsung Dishwasher Error OC
• Samsung Dishwasher Error tE
• Samsung Dishwasher Error bE

Other Samsung appliance guides:

• Samsung Dryer Error dE
• [Samsung Washing Machine Error 3E](/samsung/washing machine/error-3e/)

What Does Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 5E Mean?

When your Samsung dishwasher shows the 5E error, it’s telling you that the unit can’t drain water properly. The dishwasher finishes the wash cycle, but the water stays in the tub instead of flowing out through the drain hose. Because the water remains, the next cycle starts with a full tub, which leads to a poor wash, leftover detergent, and sometimes a faint odor. If the problem persists, the excess water can damage the dishwasher’s interior components or even create a moldy environment.

In plain terms: the dishwasher thinks the drain is blocked or the pump that pushes water out is not working. The error stops the machine from completing its cycle, so you’ll notice that the dishwasher stops mid‑wash or ends with a puddle of water in the bottom. Fixing it restores normal operation and protects the appliance from long‑term damage.

Common Causes of Error 5E

• Clogged Drain Hose – The hose that connects the dishwasher to the sink drain can become kinked or filled with food debris. A kink blocks water flow, while a clog traps it.
• Dirty Drain Pump Filter – Inside the dishwasher is a small filter that captures food particles. When it’s full, the pump can’t push water out, triggering 5E.
• Faulty Drain Pump – The pump itself may be worn out or have a broken impeller. A damaged pump can’t create the suction needed to move water.
• Blocked Drain Line – The main drain line that carries water away from the dishwasher can get jammed by grease or a foreign object. This stops water from leaving the unit.
• Electrical Issues on the Control Board – A fault in the control board can misread the pump’s status, causing the error even if the pump works.
• Improperly Installed Drain Hose – If the hose is not secured or is too steep, gravity can’t help the water drain, leading to a backup.

How to Prevent Error 5E

1. Clean the Filter Every 1–2 Weeks – Remove the filter at the bottom of the tub and rinse it under hot water. This keeps food from clogging the pump.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose Monthly – Check for kinks or visible blockages. Straighten any bends and clear any debris with a long brush or a piece of flexible tubing.
3. Use a Dishwasher‑Safe Detergent – Hard‑water detergents can leave residue that builds up in the pump. Opt for a high‑quality, rinse‑aid‑free detergent to reduce buildup.
4. Run a Cleaning Cycle Once a Month – Many Samsung models have a “clean” or “sanitize” cycle. Running it with a cup of vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner removes mineral deposits that can clog the pump.
5. Check the Drain Line During Installation – If you’re installing a new dishwasher, make sure the drain line is properly connected and has a slight downward slope to aid gravity.

Estimated Repair Costs

All prices are approximate and can vary by region and model (e.g., DW80K5000US).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I fix the 5E error without replacing the pump?
A1: Often the error is caused by a clogged filter or hose. Cleaning or replacing those parts usually resolves the issue before you need to replace the pump.

Q2: How long does a new drain pump last?
A2: A quality Samsung drain pump can last 10–15 years if you keep the filter clean and avoid food debris in the hose.

Q3: Will the 5E error damage my dishwasher?
A3: If water stays in the tub for extended periods, it can corrode internal components and create a moldy odor. Repairing the error promptly prevents long‑term damage.

Q4: Is the 5E error related to a clogged garbage disposal?
A4: Yes. A garbage disposal that isn’t draining properly can back up water into the dishwasher’s drain line, triggering the 5E error.

Q5: How can I tell if the drain pump is the real problem?
A5: Use a multimeter to test the pump’s electrical resistance. A reading that is too high or infinite usually means the pump is faulty. If the resistance is normal, the issue is likely a blockage.