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Troubleshoot your washer with ease before calling a technician
Noticed an SC error on your Samsung washing machine? This error—along with codes like 5C, 5E, Nd, SE, or 1 5C—typically points to a drainage issue, often caused by a clogged filter or hose. Keep reading to discover why the SC code appears and how you can fix it yourself.
Fixing the SC Error on Samsung Washers
When your Samsung washer displays an SC, 5C, or 5E error, it usually means the machine isn’t draining properly. Try cleaning the drain pump filter, inspecting the hose for clogs or bends, leveling the washer, and checking the pressure switch to resolve the issue.
Troubleshooting Steps
Typical Reasons Behind the SC Error
The SC, 5C, or 5E error indicates a drainage problem in your washer. Thankfully, this is often a fixable issue without professional help. Here are the top causes of this error on Samsung washers:
- Drain pump filter is clogged
- Drain hose is kinked
- Drain hose is blocked
- Washer isn’t leveled properly
- Malfunctioning pressure switch
How to Resolve the SC Error Code
Clean out the drain pump filter. Lint and debris can cause blockages that stop proper drainage. To clean it, follow these instructions:
- Find the drain pump filter access panel on the lower-right front of your washer.
- Place a towel underneath and get a shallow dish to catch draining water.
- Use your fingers, a small tool, or a coin to open the panel.
- Pull out the emergency drain hose, hold it above your bowl, and remove the cap.
- Once water stops flowing, recap the hose and tuck it back in.
- Unscrew the filter counterclockwise and pull it out.
- Remove any debris and rinse the filter under warm water.
- Wipe out the filter housing with a damp cloth.
- Reinstall the filter by turning it clockwise until it locks, then close the panel.
Inspect the drain hose for any kinks. Bends in the hose can restrict water flow. The setup depends on how the hose is connected:
- If connected to a spigot: Confirm the blanking cap is removed, the hose is fully inserted, and no kinks or tight bends are blocking flow.
- If connected to a standpipe: Ensure the hose is clipped securely, raised at least 60 cm above the floor, fully inserted into the pipe, no more than 150mm of hose is inside, and there are no kinks or sharp bends restricting drainage.
Inspect the drain hose for clogs. Obstructions in the hose can stop your washer from draining and cause the SC error. Here's how to check:
- Switch off the washer at the breaker and unplug it.
- Take out any clothes inside. If the door won’t open, try these unlocking tips.
- Move the washer away from the wall so you can access the back comfortably.
- Locate the drain hose—it’s typically the thickest hose connected to a standpipe.
- Detach it from the washer (a screwdriver may help).
- Disconnect the other end as well.
- Use a plumber’s snake or a straightened hanger to clear out blockages.
- Reconnect both ends, return the washer to place, power it up, and run a test cycle to confirm the fix.
Ensure your washer is level. An uneven washer can cause drainage issues and trigger the SC error. Signs include standing water on one side or loud banging during spins. Fortunately, Samsung washers come with adjustable feet:
- Front-load models: Use a level on top of the unit. Adjust legs as needed—loosen the locking nut, turn the clamp nut (counterclockwise to raise, clockwise to lower), then tighten the nut again. For a step-by-step guide, click here.
- Top-load models: Open the lid and fill water just below the pulsator. If it isn’t centered, adjust the feet. Loosen the nut, turn to adjust height, then re-tighten.
- After leveling, calibrate the washer: turn it off and back on, press Temp and Delay End together for 3 seconds, then hold Start/Pause to begin calibration.
Check the pressure switch. A broken pressure switch may prevent draining, causing the SC error. Follow these steps to test it:
- Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
- Locate the pressure switch—usually found at the top. Check your manual for specifics.
- Disconnect and remove the switch.
- Use a multimeter to test its function.
- If it fails the test, replace the pressure switch.
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The SC error can appear on all Samsung washer models, including: WF203ANSXAX, WF206ANSXAA, WF206ANSXAC, WF206BNWXAC, WF210ANWXAA, WF218ANBXAA, WF218ANWXAA, WF219ANBXAA, WF219ANWXAA, WF220ANWXAA, WF328AAGXAA, WF328AARXAA, WF328AAWXAA, WF330ANWXAA, WF340ANGXAC, WF340ANRXAC, WF350ANWXAA
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If no physical blockage is found, try resetting your washer.
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If the SC, 5C, or 5E error persists, reach out to Samsung Support or schedule a repair.
