What this error means
Drain fault — the washing machine cannot empty water from the drum
The 5E error means the machine failed to drain within the expected time. On Samsung washing machines this is most often caused by a blocked pump filter, a kinked or obstructed drain hose, or a foreign object jamming the pump impeller. A failing drain pump motor will also produce this fault.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Water visible in the drum at the end of a cycle
- Machine stops mid-programme with water remaining
- Straining or loud humming from the pump area during draining
- 5E displayed near the end of a wash or rinse phase
How to fix it
Unplug the machine. Lay towels on the floor and get a shallow tray ready — even after a failed drain there can be 3 to 5 litres trapped inside.
At the bottom front of the machine, open the small flap or kick-strip panel. Place your tray under the round filter cap. Turn it anti-clockwise by a quarter turn only to release water as a controlled trickle. Empty the tray as needed, then unscrew the cap fully and pull out the filter. The machine may be equipped with an emergency drain hose next to the filter to aid in removing the water in a more controlled way.
Rinse the filter under warm running water, scrubbing the mesh with an old toothbrush. Then reach carefully into the housing cavity and feel around the pump entrance for debris.
Shine a torch into the filter cavity. At the back you should see the impeller — a small plastic fan. Try to rotate it gently with one finger. It should spin freely with light resistance. If stiff or completely seized there is a blockage in the pump body or a broken impeller blade.
Trace the corrugated drain hose to the standpipe or sink. Straighten all kinks. The hose end should be inserted no more than 15 cm into the standpipe and not sealed against the pipe walls. The lowest point of the hose must be at least 60 cm from the floor.
Refit the filter firmly clockwise. Plug in and select Spin Only. You should hear the pump activate within seconds and water should flow from the drain hose.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller cracked or will not turn by hand after filter removal
- Pump hums but produces no water movement — motor winding has failed
- 5E returns immediately after filter cleaning and hose check
- Burning smell or scorch marks in the pump area
Frequently asked questions
Can I drain the drum manually when 5E stops the machine mid-cycle?
How often should I clean the Samsung pump filter?
Why does 5E appear even though I cleaned the filter last week?
Could a blocked filter permanently damage the pump?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Drain Pump Filter | £10 - £15 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Drain Pump | £15 - £20 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Drain Pump | £15 - £20 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.