A Samsung washer error code SC is actually a 5C error code where the 5 looks like an S on some models. If your Samsung washer has an SC (5C) error code, it most likely means the washer has a drainage issue caused by a clogged pump, drain pump filter, or drain hose. If a blockage is not causing the SC (5C) error code, the pump motor may be defective, or the error code may have been caused by a control board glitch.

Keep reading for a list of the most common causes of the SC (5C) error code with instructions for how to fix the issue.

This guide applies to most Samsung washer models, including the following:

WF203ANSXAX, WF206ANSXAA, WF206ANSXAC, WF206BNWXAC, WF209ANWXAA, WF210ANWXAA, WF218ANBXAA, WF218ANWXAA, WF219ANWXAA, WF328AAWXAA, WF330ANB/XAA, WF330ANBXAA, WF330ANW

WF330ANWXAA, WF331ANW/XAA, WF350ANPXAA, WF350ANW/XAA, WF350ANWXAA, WF419AAWXAA, WF42H5000AW/A2-0000, WF448AAPXAA

Clear the drain pump filter (front-loader washers)

Samsung front-loader washers usually have a small access panel on the bottom-front of the washer that houses the drain pump filter. Clearing the drain pump filter often fixes a Samsung SC (5C) error code.

Clearing the drain pump filter requires a container to drain water into, a cloth to soak up water that may leak out, some dish soap, water, and a brush able to get in the crevices.

Follow the steps below to clear the drain pump filter:

1. Put a cloth or towel down in front of the drain pump filter cover.
2. Open the drain pump filter cover either by using a coin as a lever to pry it open or by firmly pushing on the panel.
3. Pull out the small drain hose and place the end over a container.
4. Remove the cap on the hose and drain the water into the container. Typically, around 2–6 cups of water will drain from the washer.
5. Rotate the drain filter counterclockwise to remove it from the washer.
6. Remove any foreign items from the filter.
7. Wash the filter with dish soap and water. Use a brush to make sure it’s completely free of debris.
8. Return the filter to the washer and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.
9. Put the cap back on the small drain hose and resecure it inside the compartment.
10. Close the access panel.

After clearing the filter, check if the SC (5C) error code has been resolved. If the error code remains, check the other components listed below.

Check the drain hose

Another cause of the SC (5C) error code is a blocked drain hose. Using your fingers, you should be able to feel along with the drain hose for any blockages. However, it’s usually best to disconnect the drain hose and use a drain snake tool or something similar to clear it of any blockages. If you disconnect the drain hose, you can also run water through it to clear it.

Checking the drain hose may require some pliers to remove clamps or a screwdriver to remove screws that secure the drain hose to the back of the washer.

Follow these steps to check the drain hose:

1. Disconnect the washer from the power.
2. Locate the drain hose and feel along the hose for a blockage.
3. Disconnect the drain hose and check the ends for blockages.
4. Use a drain snake tool or flush the hose with water to clear it.
5. Reconnect the drain hose, making sure it is installed to the correct specifications (check the washer’s manual for drain hose specifications).

Check if the SC (5C) error code has been resolved. If the error code remains, check other components listed below.

Check the drain pump

If checking the above components has failed to resolve the error code, the washer’s drain pump may be clogged, have a broken impeller, or the pump motor may have failed.

A Samsung washer’s drain pump is usually at the base of the washer or behind a rear access panel. Depending on the model, you may need to remove the rear access panel by removing the screws or place the washer on its back to access the pump at the washer’s base. If you’re unable to access the pump underneath or at the rear of the washer, the entire front panel, and often the top panel as well, need to be removed.

Typically, access panel screws can be removed with a Phillips-head screwdriver. A multimeter is also needed to test the drain pump motor.

Follow these instructions to check a Samsung washer’s drain pump:

1. Disconnect the power to the washer.
2. Turn off the water supply to the washer.
3. Remove the relevant access panels or put the washer on its back. If you have to move the washer, it’s recommended to have someone help you as washers can be heavy and hard to manage by yourself. If the access panel is underneath the washer, remove the screws to open the panel.
4. Locate the drain pump and check that the pump impeller can turn freely, that it’s not damaged, and that the pump isn’t clogged. If the impeller doesn’t turn, it indicates that the motor is defective. If the impeller is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
5. Detach the drain pump hoses and check them for blockages.

If the drain pump or its hoses are not clogged, and the impeller is not damaged, the drain pump should be removed from the washer and the motor tested for continuity with a multimeter.

1. While the washer is still disconnected from the power source, unplug the drain pump wiring harnesses.
2. Remove the drain pump mounting screws and remove the pump from the washer.
3. Use a multimeter to test if the pump has continuity (a continuous electrical path present in the motor). If the drain pump motor doesn’t have continuity, the pump is defective and needs to be replaced to fix the drainage issue.

Control Board Glitch

Occasionally, the control board can have a glitch, which causes the washer to display a false error code. If the SC (5C) error code is just a glitch, disconnecting the washer from the power source for a few minutes will reset the board and resolve the error code.

In Summary

If your Samsung washer has an SC (5C) error code, check the drain pump filter, drain hose, and drain pump to resolve the issue.