5e Code on Samsung Washer: Causes and Fixes

Investing in a Samsung washing machine means enjoying a reliable machine for a long time. According to the Consumer Affairs report, these washers can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. So, imagine your frustration when your washer blinks a 5E code!

Let’s explore the possible causes behind this error code and the best ways to get your Samsung washer back on track.

Before we delve into the root causes of the problem, note that it is commonly found in front-load washers. Here are a few examples of the widely affected models:

Front-loader Washers:

• WA50F9A795
• WF8500B
• WA85BWPEH/XTL
• WF42T6000A
• WA52A8600AV
• WF43T3000AW
• WA50K2400AW,
• WA90BWQEH/XTL
• WF43T3000AW
• WA50K5600AW
• WF45R6300
• WA95BWBEH/XTL
• WF45R6300AA,
• WF43T5500A
• WA52K7600AW
• WA90BWMEH/XTL
• WF45R6400AP
• WA52K8600AV
• WA50F9A795
• WA95BWPEH/XTL.
• WF42T4000AW

What Does 5E Code Mean on a Samsung Washer?

When your Samsung washer displays a 5E code, you shouldn’t panic. Instead, take some time to understand its meaning, significance, and impact on your routine. Here’s a breakdown of the 5E code:

• Meaning: This code indicates a drainage problem. This means your Samsung washer is unable to kick excess water out. So, the water remains inside the drum after a wash cycle.
• Safety Feature: The 5E code acts as a safety feature that prevents overflowing problems. This code stops any active cycle to protect the washer’s components from potential damage.
• Impact on Use: With the 5E error, your washer cycle will stop. Your clothes will not dry and may not even be 100% clean.
• Warning Signs: before noticing the 5E code, your washer may alert you of the upcoming problem. For example, the wash cycles may take longer and leave excess water in the drum. Also, you might hear unusual noises during a spin cycle.
• Importance of Addressing: Taking fast action toward resolving this error code helps you restore the washer’s functionality. It may save you from potential water damage and home flooding.

Why Does Your Samsung Washer Show 5E Code?

The first step in handling the 5E code on your Samsung washer is understanding the causes of this issue. The problem is that different causes may trigger this error. So, it’s better to investigate each reason separately to find the root cause. Here’s an overview of the possible code triggers in this Samsung product:

1. Clogged Drain Hose

A clogged drain hose is one of the most common reasons behind this 5E code. This component is responsible for driving wastewater out of your washer. This rubber hose can suffer from debris buildup, like lint, hair, lost coins, small pieces of torn clothes, or buttons. These clogs prevent water from flowing out smoothly Instead the water will back up and remain in the drum.

The same scenario can happen if there are kinks or bends on the hose. These imperfections will delay or even prevent the water flow (if they are severe.)

2. Blocked Drain Pump Filter

The drain filter acts as a guard for your washer’s drain system. It is a net that catches fallen debris and prevents it from clogging the drain pump and the rest of the drainage components. However, a blocked filter won’t efficiently perform this task, as it becomes full of debris. This blocked debris filter can cause restriction of the water flow and the wastewater won’t be fully drained.

3. Faulty Drain Pump

By the end of each wash cycle, this electrical device generates enough force to expel excess water. This pump can malfunction due to various reasons, including wear and tear, stuck objects, and electrical problems. Eventually, a defective pump won’t be able to evacuate water efficiently, resulting in the 5E code.

4. Water Level Sensor Malfunction

A water level sensor inside your Samsung washer monitors the water level inside the drum. It detects the amount of water as it fills the tub during a wash cycle. Then, it sends a signal to the control board that there’s enough water.

However, a malfunctioning sensor may send inaccurate signals to the board indicating a full drum. This may occur even if the drainage function is working properly. This false message may trigger the 5E code on your Samsung washer

5. Blocked Waste Pipe

The waste pipe is the final pipe that drives your washer’s wastewater out. It is connected to the drain pipe. As with any pipe, stuck objects, grease residue, and soap scum can clog it over time. A blocked pipe can stop the water from reaching the drain pipe. Water might back up and flow into the washer. Therefore, your Samsung washer may trigger the 5E code.

6. Defective Pressure Switch

This electrical device contributes to keeping the water levels inside the drum within normal range. If this switch malfunctions, it might send inaccurate readings to the washer’s control board.

For example, the switch might incorrectly indicate a full drum even when the water has drained properly. This confuses the control board and leads to the 5E error code as a safety measure to prevent overflowing.

How To Reset Samsung Washer 5E Error

Before diving into deeper troubleshooting, a simple reset can sometimes clear up the 5E error on your Samsung washer. Like rebooting a computer, a reset can refresh the washer’s control board and other electrical devices. This may clear simple glitches that are causing the drainage issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unplug the washer before resetting or performing any other troubleshooting steps.
2. Wait for at least 5 minutes. This allows enough time for the control board to fully discharge.
3. Reconnect the power and see if the error code persists.

How To Fix Samsung Washer 5E Error

Before considering a new product or contacting Samsung support, you can try some DIY for a few of the culprits behind the Samsung washer 5E error code. Here is what to do to troubleshoot the DIY Samsung washer with a 5e code:

1. How To Fix Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose resides at the back of the washer. You can identify it from its appearance. It’s a thick, rubber hose connected to the bottom of the washer and leading to the drain pipe. Here’s how to troubleshoot this component:

1. The hose is connected from both ends to the washer and drain pipe. Disconnect it from both ends.
2. Use a small bucket or a towel to catch any water spills.
3. If the hose appears minorly bent, straighten it up. But get a new hose if it appears severely kinked.
4. Mix some warm water and baking soda and pour the mix through the hose to loosen any stubborn buildup.
5. if it is severely clogged, you can either use a snake to clear it or replace it with a new one.

2. How To Fix Blocked Drain Pump Filter

You can find this filter tucked behind a small panel in the bottom front part of your washer. You can easily pull the panel open to access the filter. Here’s what to do next:

1. Unclip the filter to take it out of its housing
2. Remove the stuck debris manually and throw it into a trash bin.
3. Rinse the filter under running water.
4. Clean the filter compartment with a soft cloth or brush.
5. If it appears torn or unresponsive to cleaning attempts, get a new filter.
6. Install the filter the same way it was. You can refer to the user manual for reassurance.

3. How To Fix Drain Pump

While the drain filter and hose can use DIY fixes, your Samsung washer’s drain pump may not be as flexible. This is an electrical component that consists of an impeller, motor, and electrical wires. So, it’s better to consult a qualified technician for complex repairs or replacements.

You can access the drain pump by removing the back panel with a screwdriver. Use a flashlight to check on the condition of the impeller. If it has stuck debris, try cleaning it with a small brush or needle-nose pliers.

If the clogs are more complex, you can try clearing them with a vinegar and water solution. This requires taking the pump out and this is not something all DIYers can successfully do.

In all cases, you should unplug the washer before removing the back panel and accessing the pump to avoid electrical shocks.

4. How To Fix Water Level Sensor Malfunction

The location of this sensor varies depending on your Samsun washer’s model. In many models, it resides behind the back panel. But you can check your manual to verify the location before working on fixing it. Usually, it is located near the top of the washer’s cabinet. Here’s what to do next:

1. You can identify this sensor from its round or rectangular shape. It has electrical connectors and may have wires leading to it or be attached to a plastic housing.
2. The best way to determine the condition of the sensor is by using a multimeter for a continuity test.
3. You should connect the multimeter probes to the ports of the sensor.
4. Set the multimeter to the continuity test mode.
5. If there a continuity, the multimeter will beep and show a zero reading or a closer reading.

5. How To Fix Blocked Waste Pipe

You can find the pipe behind the washer. It is better to bring the washer a bit forward to have clear access. Here’s what to do next:

1. Disconnect the drain hose from the pipe. They are connected through a clamp. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove this clamp.
2. Wear leather gloves to manually remove clogs around the connection point. If they are deeper, use a snake to clear clogs.
3. However, If the clog is deep within the pipe or requires disconnecting plumbing connections, it’s best to consult a plumber to avoid causing further damage.

6. How To Fix Faulty Pressure Switch

Addressing problems with the pressure switch is similar to the water level sensor. So, you will need to test it with a multimeter to determine its condition. But they differ in their appearance and locations. Here’s what to do after unplugging your Samsung washer:

1. Remove the back panel for access.
2. Look for the switch near the water inlet valve.
3. You can identify the sensor from its appearance. Search for a round device that is connected to a few wires and mounted on a bracket. Also, it comes with a rubber tube running from it down to the tub.
4. Carefully disconnect the switch from the attached wires to be able to test it.
5. Repeat the test steps you did with the water level sensor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 5E code on a Samsung washer IS a cry for help from improper draining. This problem can be caused by various factors, including a clogged drain hose, blocked drain pump filter, faulty drain pump, malfunctioning water level sensor, blocked waste pipe, or a defective pressure switch.

Understanding these causes is essential to finding the root of the problem. Resetting the washer can sometimes resolve the error, but DIY fixes can also be attempted for certain culprits. However, for complex repairs or replacements, it is advisable to consult a qualified technician.

Encountering more error codes with your Samsung washer? Take a look at this blog post to resolve the 4c2 error code on a Samsung washer.

Adrian Simmons( Licensed Appliance Repair Expert )

Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.