What changes the diagnosis here
Separate normal sump water from a tub that remains full after a drain command.
Error-code meanings and procedures can vary by exact model and revision. Confirm against the model-specific manual.
Samsung context that changes the path
- Terminology
- Samsung dishwashers may report 5C for a drain problem.
- Model detail
- Keep the full DW model code and suffix when matching documentation.
- Diagnostic order
- Differentiate a household drain connection problem from an internal pump problem.
- Safety boundary
- Shut off power and water when active leakage reaches the base.
What to check next
Clean the filter and sump area
Remove food debris from the user-accessible filter and sump.
- This recognized drain code makes the filter and sump path an early check.
- Free or inexpensive to check
- Low DIY difficulty
- Disconnect power.
- Remove the lower rack and filter as documented.
- Clean debris and reinstall correctly.
- Run a short drain test.
Why it helps: A blocked filter or sump is a common zero-part cause.
Rule source: Samsung dishwasher support
Check drain hose, air gap and disposal connection
Inspect the full drain path for restrictions.
- The household drain connection remains directly relevant to this code.
- Samsung dishwasher context keeps the household drain connection ahead of pump replacement.
- Free or inexpensive to check
- Disconnect power.
- Clean the sink air gap if fitted.
- Confirm the disposal knockout was removed after installation.
- Check for a kinked high loop or hose.
Why it helps: The household drain connection can prevent an otherwise working pump from draining.
Rule source: Samsung dishwasher support
Inspect the drain-pump area
Check the accessible pump cover and impeller area for debris.
- The pump area becomes relevant after safe filter access is clear.
- Free or inexpensive to check
- Disconnect power.
- Remove standing water safely.
- Follow the model manual for user-accessible pump inspection.
- Stop before live testing.
Why it helps: Glass, labels and food debris can obstruct the pump.
Rule source: Samsung dishwasher support
Test or replace the dishwasher drain pump
Confirm pump operation after restrictions are ruled out.
- Pump replacement is premature until the filter and external drain path are ruled out.
- Disconnect power and water.
- Verify the exact pump part.
- Use a technician for electrical testing or base access.
Why it helps: A failed pump is plausible after filter and hose paths are clear.
Rule source: Samsung dishwasher support
What matched FixEvidence outcomes show
No matched outcome sample yet
This page is currently based on reviewed diagnostic guidance and applicable rules. No moderated outcome matches this page closely enough to publish a rate.
Add a repair outcome →Is another repair worth it?
Compare appliance-specific life, spending, likely repair cost and observed repair evidence.
Related diagnosis guides
Frequently asked questions
Should I replace a part based only on an error code?
No. A code identifies a detected condition, not necessarily the failed component. Rule out safe, inexpensive causes and confirm the exact model.
Why ask what I already tried?
The best next action changes when earlier checks fail. The engine removes repeated actions and applies prerequisite rules before ranking what remains.
Are success rates verified?
Every rate shows its denominator. Photo, receipt, invoice, technician and follow-up verification remain separate signals; none converts a small sample into high confidence.