Fix a Samsung Washer SC Error Code (5C) in 3 Easy Steps

Seeing any error code on your washing machine is enough to make most people go into panic mode. While some messages indicate serious problems, the Samsung washer SC error code is not a cause for panic. You will be able to fix this problem in a few easy steps. This error message refers to drainage problems. More specifically, it shows when the drain cycle is taking more time than it should.

What Is the Samsung Washer SC Error Code?

Although this is commonly referred to as the SC error code, the washer actually displays a 5C message. The number 5 on the display is commonly mistaken for the letter S, which is why nearly all people refer to this as the SC error message.

This error code refers to a problem specifically related to the washer not draining adequately. You can try solving this problem by unplugging your washing machine and letting it sit for several minutes before plugging it back in. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to clean certain components inside the machine.

Clear Drain Pump Filter on Front-Load Washer

The drain pump filter is tasked with protecting the drain pump from a buildup of debris, lint, and dirt. It’s recommended that you clean the filter every once in a while. If you don’t, the drain pump filter will get clogged sooner or later. Apart from debris, dust, and lint, small pieces of clothing can also clog this component.

You should clean the filter either after 40 laundry loads or once on a monthly basis. Having a clean filter in your washing machine will ensure that the drain pump can operate more efficiently. It also minimizes the risk of mold and foul odors spreading inside the machine.

If the drain pump filter in your machine is clogged, it will make it harder for your Samsung washer to complete the drain cycle. Thankfully, it doesn’t take too much time or effort to clean this component. To reach the filter, you will simply have to open the small access panel found on the front of your washing machine. This panel is located near the bottom of the appliance. When you open it, you will instantly be able to reach the exterior end of the filter. Now that you’ve accessed the filter, you can begin clearing the blockage.

How To Clear The Drain Pump Filter

1. The first step in the process is to drain the water when you open the pump filter access panel. You should grab a bowl or a large cup and place it underneath the panel. You’ll see a black rubber drain hose here. Remove the plug from the hose and the water will start coming out. It might take up to 10 minutes to fully drain the water.
2. After you’re done catching the water, you will be able to turn the filter counterclockwise and remove it from the machine. You will likely notice a combination of debris, dirt, and hair caught in the filter.
3. To clean the filter, you should first remove anything you can from it with your fingers. After you do that, you can rinse out the remaining debris with running water. When you see that the filter is completely clean, you can reinstall it.

Here’s an awesome video that you can watch for more information on how to clean the drain pump filter in your Samsung washing machine.

How to Clean Washing Machine Filter Samsung

Inspect The Drain Hose

The drain hose is a flexible pipe made out of plastic that is a vital part of the overall drainage system inside the machine. This component ensures that wastewater gets removed from the machine both during and at the end of a wash cycle. The wastewater ends up in either the sewer or the septic system.

How To Check The Drain Hose

1. Your first step should be to unplug your washer from its power source. Leaving the machine plugged in while you inspect different components can lead to a safety hazard. After you unplug the appliance, pull it away from the wall so that you have enough space to remove the hose.
2. The drain hose is located on the back of your washer. Before you remove it, check whether there is any water pooling in the washing machine. If there is, you should grab a bucket to catch the remaining water. You will notice that a clamp secures the drain hose. Remove the clamp and then the hose.
3. Carefully inspect the drain hose to see whether it is damaged or blocked in any spot. If there is a buildup of lint and debris in the hose, you will need to clean it. The best way to clean the hose is to use a drain snake.

If you find that the drain hose inside your Samsung washing machine is worn, kinked, or damaged, you will have to replace it. You can pick them up here on Amazon.com for under $20. I recommend that you watch the video below to learn how to replace this component.

Samsung Washer Drain Hose Replacement #DC97-12534D

Inspect The Drain Pump

The drain pump inside your washer pumps the water from the machine and through the drain hose until it is removed from the appliance. This component is located near the bottom of the machine allowing gravity to draw water into a pool allowing the pump to drain the washer. To access the drain pump, you will need to open the filter access door, unhook the drain hose, and remove the drain pump filter. Once you do that, you will be able to check whether the pump is in good condition.

You can pick up Samsung aftermarket washer drain pumps for around 20% of the cost of an OE pump here on Amazon.com.

How To Check A Samsung Washer Drain Pump

1. The best way to tell whether a drain pump is working properly is to test it for electrical continuity. That’s why the first step is to grab a multimeter and set it to the lowest resistance setting.
2. You will notice that there are two wires that connect to the side of the drain pump. Disconnect the wires from the pump.
3. Connect the multimeter’s leads to the terminals of the drain pump. You should be getting a reading between 5-10 ohms if the component is in good condition. In case you get a reading of infinity or zero, you will need to replace the pump.

You might realize that you need to replace the drain pump in your washer after you inspect it. If so, you should watch the video below for a great step-by-step guide on how to replace this component.

Washer Not Draining? Drain Pump Replacement #DC31-00054D

Control Board Failure

The main control board in your Samsung washer is found behind the control panel. This component is like the brain of the appliance. It receives and sends various signals between different components in the machine. Thanks to the main control board, you will see the SC error code displayed when there is a drainage problem. But when this component fails, you might see a misleading error message. Your washer might be working perfectly and you’ll still see the SC error code displayed.

If you tried clearing the drain pump filter, hose, and the pump itself and your washer is still not working, you should try checking the main control board. It’s recommended that you test it for electrical continuity to determine if it’s working.

Testing a Failed Control Board

You will need both a multimeter and a screwdriver to conduct this test. Before you do anything, make sure that your washing machine is not plugged in. Accessing the control board while the washer is plugged into a power source could result in an injury. Once you take this safety precaution, you can start the process of testing the board. Here’s how:

1. Use your screwdriver to unscrew the control panel.
2. Remove the control panel and you’ll see the board behind it.
3. Set your multimeter to the lowest ohm setting and connect its leads to the board’s terminals.
4. You should get a reading of 0 ohms or a number close to 0 in case the control board is in good condition.
5. If you get any other reading, you will need to replace the board.

Verdict: Samsung Washer SC Error Code

The Samsung washer SC error code indicates that the drain cycle is taking a long time which could mean that certain components are clogged with lint, dirt, and debris. To fix this problem, you will have to clean the clogged components. Both the SC and 5C error codes relate to drainage problems. In fact, the 5C message is displayed. People just commonly refer to it as the SC code because the number 5 and the letter S look incredibly similar on the display.

Applicable To Samsung Washer Models

The solutions provided in this article are applicable to a wide range of Samsung washing machines. In case an SC error code message is showing up on your appliance, you can follow the advice described above to solve the issue for the following Samsung washers:

• 592-49045
• 592-49075
• 592-49082
• 592-49087
• WF203ANSXAX
• WF206ANSXAA
• WF206ANSXAC
• WF206BNWXAC
• WF209ANWXAA
• WF210ANWXAA
• WF218ANBXAA
• WF218ANWXAA
• WF219ANBXAA
• WF219ANWXAA
• WF220ANWXAA
• WF328AAGXAA
• WF328AARXAA
• WF328AAWXAA
• WF330ANBXAA
• WF330ANWXAA
• WF331ANW/XAA
• WF340ANGXAC
• WF340ANRXAC
• WF350ANWXAA
• WF419AAWXAA
• WF42H5000AW/A2-0000
• WF448AAPXAA

If you find your washer in the list above, rest assured that you will be able to quickly fix the Samsung error code by clearing the drain pump filter, drain hose, or drain pump. If that doesn’t work, try replacing the main control board.