James Crawford Key Takeaways
- Error codes 5E, OC, and LE all relate to Samsung dishwasher drainage failures.
- Cleaning the fine-mesh sump filter solves the majority of 5E drain errors at no cost.
- A kinked or improperly looped drain hose is the second most common cause.
- If the drain pump is silent during the drain phase, the motor likely needs replacement.
- Most drain repairs cost from $90 and take under an hour for a technician.
The Bottom Line
Standing water in a Samsung dishwasher almost always stems from a clogged filter, kinked drain hose, or failed drain pump. Clean the filter first — it is free and fixes most cases. If the 5E code persists, schedule a professional drain pump inspection.
Samsung dishwasher not draining — here is what you need to know.
Why Water Sits in Your Samsung Dishwasher
Standing water at the bottom of your Samsung dishwasher after a completed cycle signals a drainage failure. This is one of the most common Samsung dishwasher complaints and, left untreated, leads to odor buildup and potential water damage to your kitchen floor. Samsung's DW80 and Bespoke series both rely on the same drain pump design, so the troubleshooting process is similar across models.
Key Error Codes
Samsung dishwashers display 5E (drain error), OC (over-level water error), and LE (leak or water-level sensor fault) when drainage fails. The 5E code is most common and indicates the control board detected water that should have been pumped out.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Clean the filter assembly. Samsung dishwashers use a fine-mesh filter in the sump area. Food debris, grease, and small objects (broken glass, labels) clog the filter and block the drain path. Remove the lower rack, twist out the cylindrical filter, and rinse it under running water.
Check the drain hose. The hose connects the dishwasher sump to the sink drain or garbage disposal. A kinked or improperly routed hose prevents gravity-assisted drainage. Ensure the hose has a high loop under the countertop — Samsung requires this to prevent backflow.
Inspect the drain pump. If the filter and hose are clear but water remains, the drain pump motor may have failed. You can usually hear the pump attempt to run during the drain phase. Silence during that phase points to a burned-out pump or a wiring fault.
Test the check valve. The check valve sits at the drain pump outlet and prevents backflow. A stuck-open valve allows drained water to flow back into the tub. Replacing it is inexpensive but requires removing the pump assembly.
Expected Repair Costs
| Repair | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Filter cleaning (DIY) | Free |
| Drain hose replacement | From $90 |
| Drain pump replacement | From $180 |
| Check valve replacement | From $110 |
Drain issues are among the most affordable dishwasher repairs. Cleaning the filter is free and solves the majority of 5E errors. If the pump itself has failed, professional replacement typically takes about an hour.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a professional if your Samsung dishwasher leaks onto the floor, fails to drain after multiple cycles, or displays persistent error codes that survive a power reset. Samsung StormWash and Bespoke dishwashers use precision water-routing systems and sealed pump assemblies that can cause significant water damage if improperly repaired. Electrical issues involving the control board, heating element, or water inlet valve should be diagnosed by a certified Samsung technician who can identify whether the problem is the component itself or the wiring harness. Most Samsung dishwasher repairs are completed in a single appointment starting from $120.
Official Resources
- Samsung Support — Official Samsung troubleshooting and error code lookup