What Does Error Code 5E Mean?

Error 5E on your Samsung Dishwasher means: The Samsung Dishwasher error code 5E indicates a drain error, meaning your dishwasher is not draining properly. This can cause water to accumulate in the dishwasher, leading to poor washing performance and potentially causing damage to the appliance. If you see this error, you'll likely notice that the dishwasher is not completing its cycle or is leaving water in the tub.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
T20 Torx screwdriver
Multimeter

🛒 Parts

Drain pump

How to Fix Error 5E — Step by Step

1

Reset the Dishwasher

Start by resetting the dishwasher. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet, wait for 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. This will restart the dishwasher and may clear the error code. Check the display to see if the error code 5E is still present.
2

Check the Drain Hose

The drain hose may be kinked or clogged, preventing the dishwasher from draining properly. Locate the drain hose under the sink and check for any blockages or kinks. Inspect the drain hose for clogs, kinks, or damage. If you find any issues, straighten or replace the hose as needed.
3

Inspect the Drain Pump Filter

The drain pump filter may be clogged, causing the error code 5E. Remove the lower panel of the dishwasher using a Phillips #2 screwdriver and locate the drain pump filter. Check the filter for any debris or blockages and clean it out if necessary. Use a multimeter to check the resistance of the filter, which should be around 5-10 ohms.
4

Check the Drain Pump

The drain pump may be faulty, causing the error code 5E. Use a multimeter to check the resistance of the drain pump, which should be around 20-30 ohms. If the reading is outside of this range, the pump may need to be replaced. You can find the drain pump replacement part on Amazon by searching for 'Samsung dishwasher drain pump replacement'.
5

Inspect the Dishwasher's Drain Line

The dishwasher's drain line may be clogged or blocked, causing the error code 5E. Check the drain line for any blockages or kinks and clear them out if necessary. Inspect the drain line for clogs, kinks, or damage.
6

Check the Control Board

The control board may be faulty, causing the error code 5E. Visually inspect the control board for burned components, corrosion, or loose connectors. If the reading is outside of this range, the control board may need to be replaced. You can find the control board replacement part on Amazon by searching for 'Samsung dishwasher control board replacement'.

When to Call a Professional

If you've tried all of the steps above and the error code 5E persists, it's likely that there's a more complex issue with your dishwasher that requires professional attention. Additionally, 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.

Field note: 5E means the machine did not see a drain complete — it is not a default control-board part. On Samsung Dishwashers start at the filter/sump, high-loop / height of the drain hose, and the impeller. A crushed hose or a coin on the impeller looks identical to a ‘bad pump’ on a scan tool.

What this code is not

Not ‘replace the board because it will not empty.’
Not a water-inlet problem (that is a fill code).
A missing high loop that siphons, or a disposer knockout still in place, will retrip 5E after any new pump.

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 Dishwasher Error Codes

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What Does Error Code 5E Mean?

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

🛒 Parts

How to Fix Error 5E — Step by Step

Reset the Dishwasher

Check the Drain Hose

Inspect the Drain Pump Filter

Check the Drain Pump

Inspect the Dishwasher's Drain Line

Check the Control Board