# How to Fix Samsung Error SE (Drain Fault)
The “SE” error code is one of the most common issues reported by Samsung washing machine owners. This guide will walk you through diagnosing and fixing the drain fault, which is typically caused by a blockage or failure of the drain pump system.
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## 1. Explanation: What “SE” Means in Plain English
The Samsung Error Code **SE** (or sometimes displayed as **5E** or **5C** depending on the specific model’s display) indicates a **Drain Fault**.
This means your washing machine attempted to drain the water from the drum but failed to achieve the necessary low water level within the predetermined time limit (usually 10 to 15 minutes). When the drain fault occurs, the machine locks up, preventing it from proceeding to the next stage of the cycle (such as the rinse or spin phase).
In most cases, the culprit is either a simple clog in the filter or a complete failure of the drain pump itself.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the Drain Fault
Follow these steps sequentially, starting with the easiest checks, which fix the majority of SE errors.
### Step 1: Safety Check and Power Cycle
Before attempting any mechanical fix, always perform a safety power cycle.
1. **Unplug the Machine:** Completely disconnect the washing machine from the main power outlet. *Do not just pause the cycle.*
2. **Wait:** Leave the machine unplugged for 5 minutes to fully reset the internal control board (PCB).
3. **Check the Drain Hose (External):** Inspect the large drain hose running from the back of the washer into the wall drain or sink. Ensure it is not kinked, twisted, or shoved too far down the drain pipe (which can create a siphon effect and cause issues).
4. **Plug back in:** Start a new, short drain/spin cycle to see if the reset cleared the issue. If the error returns immediately, proceed to Step 2.
### Step 2: Access and Clean the Debris Filter (Most Common Fix)
The debris filter (or coin trap) is designed to catch lint, coins, buttons, and other items before they reach the drain pump. A clogged filter is the primary cause of the “SE” error.
1. **Locate the Access Panel:** On most Samsung front-loaders, the filter access panel is a small, square or rectangular door located at the bottom front of the machine.
2. **Prepare for Water:** Even if the tub appears empty, residual water will drain out. Place a shallow tray or towel underneath the access panel.
3. **Drain the Water:** Most models have a small, thin drain hose next to the large filter cap. Place the end of this hose into your tray and pull the plug out to manually drain the remaining water.
4. **Remove the Filter Cap:** Once the water stops flowing, twist the large filter cap counter-clockwise to remove it. Be careful, as a little more water may spill.
5. **Clean Thoroughly:** Remove all lint, coins, hair, and small articles caught in the filter. Use a toothbrush or cloth to thoroughly clean the mesh and housing.
6. **Reinstall:** Screw the filter cap back in tightly (clockwise) and replace the emergency drain plug and access panel.
### Step 3: Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller
If the filter was clean or cleaning it didn’t solve the problem, something might be blocking the impeller (the small fan blades inside the pump that push the water out).
1. **Look Inside:** With the debris filter removed, use a flashlight and look into the hole leading to the drain pump.
2. **Check the Impeller:** You should see the impeller blades. Gently try to rotate them manually (you may need a long screwdriver or tweezers).
3. **Clear Blockages:** If the blades are jammed (often by socks, bra wires, or hair ties that slipped past the filter), carefully remove the obstruction. The blades must spin freely.
### Step 4: Test and Replace the Drain Pump (If Error Persists)
If the hose is clear, the filter is clean, and the impeller spins freely, but the “SE” error still appears when you attempt a drain cycle, the **Drain Pump has likely failed electrically or mechanically.**
In this scenario, the pump is receiving power but is unable to operate correctly. Replacing the pump is generally straightforward but requires disconnecting the machine’s hoses and potentially tilting or removing the front panel.
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**Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Samsung+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20**