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Samsung dishwasher

Samsung 5E error code: drain error

The dishwasher cannot drain.

DIY: easyTypical repair: £80–£160.

Likely causes

  • Blocked filter
  • Blocked hose
  • Pump fault

How to fix 5E

  1. Unplug the dishwasher (or switch off at the wall) for 5–10 minutes to clear any temporary fault, then restart it.
  2. Clean the filter and drain hose.
  3. Run a short test cycle. If 5E returns, the fault is still there and an engineer should look at it.
Always switch off and unplug the appliance before inspecting it. Never work on gas appliances or fixed electrical wiring yourself — call a Gas Safe registered engineer or a qualified electrician.

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Full fault guide

Other Samsung dishwasher error codes

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Frequently asked questions

What does Samsung error code 5E mean?

The dishwasher cannot drain. On a Samsung dishwasher, 5E is shown as "drain error".

How do I clear the 5E error on a Samsung dishwasher?

Switch the appliance off at the wall for 5–10 minutes, then restart. If 5E comes back, work through the checks on this page — the fault is real and needs fixing, not just resetting.

How much does it cost to fix Samsung 5E?

£80–£160. is typical, depending on the part. Simple blockages cost nothing to clear yourself.

Does 5E mean the same on every Samsung model?

Not always. Codes are broadly consistent within a brand, but model ranges differ. Check your manual if the symptoms below don’t match.