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Samsung Washer Not Draining Completely - Causes & Fix

3 min read

Independent. We don't sell parts, so we tell you when not to buy one.

⚡ Quick Answer

Clogged pump filter is the most common cause. Clean the debris trap on front-load models and check the drain hose for kinks.

Difficulty Intermediate (DIY)
Est. time 15-60 min
Tools Multimeter , nut driver, screwdrivers

Samsung Washer Not Draining Completely — What’s Happening

When your Samsung washer does not drain completely, the drum stays full or partially full of water at the end of a cycle. Samsung describes this functionally as the washer not draining or overflowing because it cannot evacuate water properly. Depending on your model and market, you may see error codes like ND, 5C, 5E, SE, or SC on the display, but the underlying problem is the same: insufficient or failed water evacuation.

The washer either cannot pump water out at all or pumps it too slowly to finish the cycle. Water may pool in the drum, overflow onto the floor, or prevent the spin cycle from running. This symptom can result from a blocked drain path, a mechanical failure in the pump, or an electrical issue preventing the pump from receiving power.

Jump to Fix

Most Likely Causes

How to Diagnose and Fix

  1. Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply before any service work.
  2. Run a drain/spin test cycle or restart the washer to verify the symptom and observe whether the pump attempts to run.
  3. Inspect the drain hose for kinks, obstructions, improper standpipe insertion depth, and incorrect height or routing.
  4. Clean the pump filter on front-load models by opening the access panel at the front bottom and removing the debris trap.
  5. Access the drain pump (typically from the front or bottom depending on model) and inspect the impeller and housing for trapped objects or damage.
  6. Test for electrical supply to the pump during a drain command using a multimeter set to AC voltage (expect approximately 120 V AC on North American models if the circuit is working).
  7. If voltage is present and the pump does not run or only hums, replace the drain pump assembly.
  8. If no voltage is present at the pump, trace back through the wiring harness and connectors to the main control board and repair or replace as needed.

Parts You Might Need

PartNotes
Drain pump assemblyAmazon | Replace if motor fails or impeller is damaged.
Drain hoseAmazon | Replace if kinked, split, or internally blocked.
Pump filter / debris trapAmazon | Clean first; replace only if cracked or damaged.

If your appliance also shows a code on the display, these match this problem:

When to Call a Pro

If you have cleaned the filter, checked the hose, and verified the pump has power but the washer still does not drain, the control board or internal wiring may be faulty. Control board diagnosis and replacement require disassembly and live voltage testing. Call a qualified appliance technician if you are not comfortable working with live circuits or if the repair involves replacing the main PCB.


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