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ErrBase

Samsung Washer SE/5E Error Code: Drain Error (Older Models)

Quick Answer

SE and 5E are the same drain fault displayed on older Samsung top-load and front-load washers. SE appears on models with alphanumeric displays; 5E appears on numeric-only displays. Both mean the drain pump ran but water level did not drop in time.

SE and 5E are the same drain fault displayed on older Samsung top-load and front-load washers. SE appears on models with alphanumeric displays; 5E appears on numeric-only displays. Both mean the drain pump ran but water level did not drop in time. Fix identically to the SC code: clean the pump filter, check the drain hose, and test the pump motor if the filter is clear.

SamsungWasherSeverity: moderate90% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–75 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$30 – $55
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Phillips screwdriver
Wrong code?

Not seeing SE on your display?

Select what your appliance is actually doing and we'll take you to the right guide.

long drain time, water in drum
WhirlpoolF21

What Does the SE Code Mean?

SE/5E is the legacy display equivalent of SC on current Samsung models. If your older Samsung shows SE or 5E, the fix is the same as SC: clean the pump filter first.

Most Likely Causes

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

Pump filter (coin trap) clogged with lint or debris40%
Drain hose kinked or positioned too high24%
Drain pump motor failed electrically22%
Foreign object lodged in the pump impeller14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Water standing in the drum after cycle ends
  • SE or 5E code during or after wash
  • Machine pauses at drain step and will not continue
  • Pump makes humming sound but water does not drain

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

Run a Drain + Spin cycle after clearing any blockage. SE/5E clears automatically once drainage is successful. Unplug for 60 seconds if the code is locked on the display.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterPhillips screwdriverShallow panTowels

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Open the lower front access panel and place towels on the floor

Open the lower front access panel and place towels on the floor. Slowly unscrew the pump filter cap counterclockwise to release residual water into the pan. Remove the filter and inspect for debris.

2

With the filter removed

3

Pull the machine out and trace the drain hose from the pump to

4

Unplug the washer

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 Pump Motor AssemblyDC61-01080A · $30–$55

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $43 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SE the same as 5E on a Samsung washer?
Yes. SE and 5E are the same drain fault code. SE displays on models with alphabetic characters in the display; 5E displays on models limited to numeric segments. Both are fixed the same way.
My Samsung washer shows SE but still drains slowly. Is it really failing?
Slow drainage below the programmed threshold triggers SE even if some draining occurs. A partially clogged filter will still allow slow drainage while triggering the error. Clean the filter fully to restore normal drain speed.

Related Samsung Washer Error Codes

Code: SCSamsung Washer SC Error Code: Drain FailureCode: 5CSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Code: NDSamsung Washer ND Error Code: No Drain Detected

Same Fix on Other Brands

Whirlpool washerF21: Whirlpool Washer F21 Error Code

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 washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WA54R7200AW, WA50R5400AW, WA45T3400AW, WF45H5200AW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026