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ErrBase

Samsung Dishwasher SE Error Code: Drain Fault (Older Firmware)

Quick Answer

SE is the third display variant of Samsung's drain fault code. Whether your machine shows SE, 5C, or SC, the diagnostic path is the same.

Samsung SE error code is a drain failure, identical in cause and repair to SC and 5C. SE appears specifically on older Samsung dishwasher models and firmware. Clean the filter, scrub the pump mesh cover, verify drain hose routing, and replace the drain pump DD31-00005A only if mechanical checks fail.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: moderate83% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–45 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$30 – $52
Tools Needed
Small brush, Flashlight

What Does the SE Code Mean?

SE is the third display variant of Samsung's drain fault code. Whether your machine shows SE, 5C, or SC, the diagnostic path is the same. Older machines showing SE are often overdue on filter cleaning and the pump mesh is a common clog point.

Most Likely Causes

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

Drain pump mesh clogged with accumulated debris over years40%
Filter basket blocked24%
Drain hose kinked at rear of machine14%
Pump motor worn out on older unit12%
Drain pump impeller jammed10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • SE code at end of cycle
  • Standing water in tub bottom
  • Machine stops after wash phase with SE
  • Weak or absent drain pump sound during drain phase

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

Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds to clear SE. Remove standing water from the tub before restarting.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Small brushFlashlightGlovesPhillips screwdriver

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. Pull and twist out the filter. Rinse under hot water to remove food buildup. Reinstall and run a short cycle.

2

With filter removed, shine a flashlight into the sump

3

Inspect the drain hose from the back of the machine to the sink

4

Listen during drain phase

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

Is SE the same as SC on Samsung dishwashers?
Yes. SE, SC, and 5C are all drain fault codes. SE appears on older Samsung firmware, SC on newer displays, and 5C on an intermediate generation. All are repaired identically.
My Samsung dishwasher shows SE but the pump is running - what is wrong?
If the pump is running but not draining, the impeller is likely jammed by a hard object or the drain hose is completely blocked. Check the pump mesh and hose before replacing the pump.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: SCSamsung Dishwasher SC Error Code: Drain FaultCode: 5CSamsung Dishwasher 5C Error Code: Drain Fault (Older Display)

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 SE Errors

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

DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026