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ErrBase

Samsung Dishwasher SC Error Code: Drain Fault

Quick Answer

SC fires when standing water remains in the tub after the drain phase. On Samsung machines, there are two distinct places water gets blocked: the coarse filter (user-accessible, pull-and-twist) and the drain pump mesh cover beneath it.

Samsung SC error code (identical to 5C on older displays) means the drain cycle failed. Samsung's drain pump has a mesh cover that is a known clog point - plastic film from jar labels, broken glass fragments, and grit collect there and must be cleaned with a small brush, which is different from the coarse filter. Clean the filter assembly and pump mesh cover first before suspecting a pump failure.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: moderate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–45 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$30 – $52
Tools Needed
Small soft-bristle brush, Flashlight

What Does the SC Code Mean?

SC fires when standing water remains in the tub after the drain phase. On Samsung machines, there are two distinct places water gets blocked: the coarse filter (user-accessible, pull-and-twist) and the drain pump mesh cover beneath it. The pump mesh requires a small brush and is frequently overlooked.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Drain pump mesh cover clogged with plastic film, labels, or debris40%
Coarse filter basket blocked with food debris24%
Drain hose kinked or pinched behind the machine14%
Drain hose too high or improperly looped, causing siphon issue12%
Drain pump motor failed or jammed by foreign object10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • SC code at end of cycle
  • Standing water visible in the bottom of the tub
  • Machine stops mid-cycle with standing water
  • Gurgling or humming sound from the sump area during drain phase

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the SC code?

Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds to clear SC. If standing water remains in the tub, manually scoop it out or run the dishwasher with just the drain program selected after clearing the blockage.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Small soft-bristle brushFlashlightPhillips screwdriverTowels

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Remove the lower rack

Remove the lower rack. Twist and pull out the cylindrical filter inside the tub floor. Rinse it under hot water.

2

With the filter removed, look into the sump hole with a flashlight

3

Check the drain hose at the back of the machine

4

Start a short cycle and listen during the drain phase (typically

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Drain PumpDD31-00005A · $30–$52

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $41 (Parts) vs $725 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SC and 5C on a Samsung dishwasher?
They are the same fault. SC appears on newer Samsung displays and 5C appears on older firmware and display hardware. Both indicate a drain failure and are diagnosed and repaired identically.
How do I clean the Samsung dishwasher drain pump mesh?
Remove the lower rack, twist out the cylindrical filter, then look into the sump opening with a flashlight. The flat mesh screen visible at the bottom is the pump cover. Use a small soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works well) to scrub away film, grit, and label debris.
Why does Samsung dishwasher pump mesh clog more than other brands?
Samsung's drain pump mesh has finer openings than many competitors. This is effective at protecting the pump impeller but catches plastic film from labels and fine grit that passes through the coarse filter. Regular cleaning every 2-3 months prevents SC codes.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: 5CSamsung Dishwasher 5C Error Code: Drain Fault (Older Display)Code: SESamsung Dishwasher SE Error Code: Drain Fault (Older Firmware)Code: OCSamsung Dishwasher OC Error Code: Overfill Detected

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor StallSamsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water SupplySamsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience SC Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DW80R9950US, DW80R2031US, DW80T5040US, DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026