Samsung Washing Machine Error Code SC — Not Draining
The SC error code means your Samsung washing machine is not draining water from the drum. The most common cause is a clogged debris filter at the front bottom of the machine, followed by a kinked or blocked drain hose. Cleaning the debris filter takes about 15 minutes and fixes most SC errors with no parts and no service call. If the code persists after clearing the filter and drain path, the drain pump may have failed and needs professional replacement.
What the SC Code Means
The Samsung washing machine error code SC is a drain error that indicates the washer cannot pump water out of the drum within its expected time frame. The control board monitors the drain cycle, and when water remains in the drum after the drain pump has been running for a set period, the machine halts and displays SC.
The SC code appears on newer Samsung washer models. Samsung has used several different labels for the same drain fault across generations. The codes 5E, 5C, nd, and 1 5C all indicate the same problem on different model years. If you see any of these codes, the troubleshooting steps are identical.
Important: do not confuse SC with SE. They look similar, but SE is a motor or tachometer error, not a drain problem. If your drum is not spinning correctly but water drains fine, you likely have an SE error instead.
The good news is that SC is one of the most fixable Samsung washer codes. The cause is usually something physically blocking the drain, and clearing it is something most homeowners can do without calling for help.
Common Causes — Most Likely First
How to Fix the SC Error — Step by Step
Turn off and unplug the washer
Power the washing machine off and unplug it from the wall outlet. This is a safety step and also clears the current error state from the control board.
Prepare for water on the floor
Place old towels and a shallow pan or baking dish on the floor in front of the washer. When you open the debris filter, any water still in the drum will flow out. On a full load, this can be several gallons.
Clean the debris filter
Open the small access panel at the front bottom of the washer. Turn the debris filter cap counterclockwise and pull it out. Remove any lint, coins, hair ties, fabric scraps, or other debris caught in the filter housing. Rinse the filter cap under running water until it is completely clear. Reinsert it and turn clockwise until snug.
Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages
Pull the washer out from the wall enough to see the drain hose. Follow it from the back of the machine to where it connects to the standpipe or laundry sink. Straighten any kinks or sharp bends. If the hose feels stiff or heavy, detach it and flush it with water to clear any internal lint buildup.
Check the household drain
Pour a bucket of water directly into the standpipe or laundry sink drain. If it drains slowly or backs up, the problem is in your home plumbing, not the washer. A plumber can clear a clogged standpipe.
Plug back in and run a drain/spin cycle
Plug the washer back in and select a Drain and Spin cycle (or the shortest available cycle). Watch to confirm water pumps out of the drum. You should hear the drain pump running. If the cycle completes without the SC code, the issue is resolved.
If the code returns, the drain pump may have failed
If SC reappears after clearing the filter, hose, and household drain, the drain pump motor has likely failed or an object is stuck in the pump impeller. Both require a technician to access and repair safely.
When to Call a Technician
Most SC errors are resolved by cleaning the debris filter and drain path. Book a professional Samsung appliance repair if:
- The SC code returns immediately after you have cleaned the debris filter, checked the drain hose, and confirmed the household drain is clear
- The drain pump makes no sound at all when the washer attempts to drain, which usually means the pump motor has failed
- You hear a loud grinding or rattling noise from the pump area, suggesting an object is jammed in the impeller
- Water is leaking from the bottom of the washer near the pump or filter area
- The washer displays SC on every cycle regardless of load size or wash setting
How Promix Repairs Samsung Washing Machine SC Errors
When a Promix Appliance Repair technician arrives for a Samsung washing machine SC error, the first step is a full diagnostic. The technician inspects the debris filter and drain path to rule out blockages, then tests the drain pump motor for electrical continuity with a multimeter. If an object is lodged in the pump impeller, the technician removes it. If the pump motor has failed, it gets replaced on the spot.
Promix carries common Samsung washer and dryer repair parts on every service vehicle, so most SC repairs are completed in a single visit. All repairs include a warranty on parts and labor. A service call fee applies and is credited toward the repair if you choose to proceed. Call (781) 666-9565 to schedule.
Repair Cost Expectations
If You Fix It Yourself
Professional Repair
How to Prevent Error Code SC From Coming Back
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Samsung washing machine with error code SC?
No. The SC code means the washer cannot drain, so the cycle will not complete. The drum is likely still full of water. Do not open the door on a front-load washer while water is inside. Start with the DIY steps above to clear the drain path before attempting another cycle.
Will resetting my Samsung washing machine clear error code SC?
Unplugging the washer for 30 to 60 seconds and plugging it back in will clear the code from the display. However, if the drain path is still blocked, the code will return as soon as the washer tries to drain again. A reset is a useful first step but does not fix the root cause.
How long does it take to fix Samsung error code SC?
If the fix is cleaning the debris filter or straightening a kinked drain hose, you can resolve it yourself in 15 to 25 minutes (including cleanup from the water that drains out). If a technician needs to replace the drain pump, the repair typically takes 30 to 60 minutes on site.
Is Samsung error code SC covered under warranty?
If your Samsung washer is still within the manufacturer's warranty period (typically one year for parts and labor), a failed drain pump may be covered. A clogged debris filter is considered routine maintenance and is not covered under warranty. Check your warranty documentation or contact Samsung directly to verify coverage.
What is the difference between Samsung error codes SC and SE?
SC is a drain error. It means the washer cannot pump water out of the drum. SE is a motor or tachometer error. It means the drum is not spinning correctly. They look similar on Samsung's digital display, which causes frequent confusion. If water is trapped in the drum, you have SC. If the drum is not spinning but water drains fine, you have SE.
What is the difference between Samsung error codes SC, 5E, 5C, and nd?
All four codes indicate the same problem: the washing machine is not draining water from the drum. Samsung has used different code labels across model generations. Older models display nd, mid-range models show 5E, and newer models use 5C or SC. The troubleshooting steps are identical regardless of which code appears on your display.