Error code 5C (displayed as 5E or legacy code Nd on older alphanumeric models) indicates a Drain Timeout Failure on Samsung washing machines. During the wash or rinse cycle, the main electronic control board energizes the electric drain pump and monitors the water level frequency pressure sensor. If the water level does not drop below the “Empty Tub” frequency threshold within 10 minutes, the machine halts the cycle with full soapy water, sounds an alarm chime, and locks the door for safety.
Over 85% of Samsung 5C error codes are caused by physical obstructions lodged in the front lower debris filter trap rather than a failed control board or pump motor.
Step 1: The 30-Second Emergency Drain & Filter Cleanout
A full washer drum holds up to 4 to 6 gallons of water. Prepare a shallow metal baking sheet, multiple bath towels, and an empty bucket before uncorking the emergency drain tube.
- Press the POWER button to turn the machine off, then disconnect the main power cord from the wall outlet.
- Locate the rectangular access door on the bottom right (or bottom left) of the front cabinet. Press the latch tab or pry gently with a flat screwdriver to hinge it open.
- Pull out the small black rubber emergency drain tube from its plastic retention clip.
- Hold the tube over your shallow tray and firmly pull out the white plastic plug. Allow the standing water to drain completely into the tray, emptying the tray into a bucket as needed.
- Once water stops flowing, push the plug back into the hose and clip it back into place.
- Turn the large circular debris filter handle counter-clockwise 1/4 turn and pull the filter cartridge straight out.
- Extract all foreign objects (coins, bra underwires, hairpins, accumulated lint). Shine a flashlight into the pump cavity and reach in with a finger to verify the plastic impeller blades spin with a slight magnetic click and are not jammed.
- Rinse the filter under hot tap water, reinsert it into the pump housing, and turn clockwise until firmly seated. Close the access door.
Step 2: Multimeter Electrical Test on Samsung Drain Pump (13.5–17.5 Ω)
If the debris chamber is completely clear but the pump produces only a faint hum or fails to spin, test the drain pump motor coils using a digital multimeter set to the lowest Ohms (Ω) scale.
| Component / Test Point | Expected OEM Reading | Diagnostic Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Drain Pump Terminals (At Room Temp 68°F) | 13.5 Ω to 17.5 Ω | PASS: Motor coil windings are electrically continuous; check wiring harness or main PCB relay. |
| Either Terminal to Metal Chassis (Ground) | Infinite (O.L.) | PASS: No internal breakdown to ground detected. |
| Open Circuit (O.L. or “1”) | Infinite / Over 100k Ω | FAIL: Internal thermal fuse blown or copper coil fractured. Replace pump assembly. |
| Short Circuit (0.0 Ω to 2.0 Ω) | 0.0 Ω – 2.0 Ω | FAIL: Shorted motor windings. Pump will overheat and trip PCB. Replace pump assembly. |
Step 3: Testing the Water Level Pressure Sensor (DC96-01703G)
If water has drained out completely by gravity, but the washer still displays 5C, the water level frequency switch (pressure transducer) may be stuck or its clear plastic pressure hose has become kinked or clogged with detergent scum.
- Remove the top panel screws at the rear of the washer and slide the top cover back.
- Locate the round pressure sensor mounted to the right side frame rail.
- Disconnect the 1/4″ clear plastic air tube from the nipple and gently blow into the tube toward the tub. You should hear a clear bubbling sound if water remains or feel free airflow with zero resistance. If blocked, clear detergent buildup with warm water.
OEM Replacement Part Information
Samsung Heavy Duty Drain Pump Assembly
OEM Part Number: DC96-01585D (Replaces DC31-00178A, DC96-01585A, AP5968364, PS11726053)
Compatibility: Samsung Front-Load Washers (WF42H5000AW, WF45K6500AV, WF45R6100AC, WF45T6000AW, WF50A8600AE) and Top-Load Washers (WA45T3200AW, WA50R5400AW).
Installation Time: 25 minutes using a Phillips screwdriver and 10mm nut driver.
Connected Diagnostic Procedures & Next Steps
Samsung 5C drain faults frequently share plumbing and electronic logic with water supply sensors. Cross-reference these verified guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the door locked while 5C is flashing?
For safety reasons, Samsung washers will not unlock the door lock solenoid if the water level pressure transducer senses water in the drum. Once you empty the water via the emergency front drain hose, the door lock will release automatically after 60 seconds.
Can a high drain pipe cause 5C on Samsung washers?
Yes. Samsung drain pumps are designed for a maximum standpipe discharge height of 96 inches (8 feet) and a minimum height of 24 inches. If the standpipe is higher than 96 inches, or if the drain hose is inserted more than 6 inches into the standpipe causing a siphon lock, 5C will be triggered.
