9 Things Why Samsung Dishwasher Not Draining

Before beginning any of the recommended repairs on the dishwasher, ensure you unplug the appliance from the power source and turn off its water supply to avoid accidents while performing the repairs.

Dishwashers made by Samsung are notorious for failing to drain. People encountering this issue is one of the most common things. The most common reason for the filter, drain hose, or pump to malfunction is blocked food particles.

Samsung dishwasher not draining could be caused from the drain pump, solenoid valve, or check valve (flapper) may be faulty. To determine and resolve the problem if your Samsung dishwasher parts are not draining properly, follow these steps. Before attempting any of these repairs on the dishwasher, unplug it from the power source and turn off the water supply. To learn about Samsung dishwasher troubleshooting and how to fix them, keep reading.

Be careful!

It is important to always turn off the power to your Samsung washer and dishwasher before working on it. This eliminates the risk of electrocution and reduces the possibility of injury.

Dishwashers require some amount of water to work properly. Thus, turn off the water supply before getting paper towels ready to wipe up any spills.

Make sure to keep your user manual and any technical sheets that may be available close at hand. These documents are valuable resources for locating and identifying the various components that constitute a washer structure.

Samsung Dishwasher Not Draining Error Codes

How To Solve Samsung Dishwasher OC Code and samsung dishwasher not draining code

How to solve samsung dishwasher OC code is to signal that an error is not associated with a drain, use the following code: No drain error codes.

If you notice an error code on your Samsung dishwasher, there may be a problem with the draining. 

The following are some of the codes you may see and which they are different from samsung dishwasher LC code error:

  1. 5C
  2. SC
  3. 5E
  4. SE
  5. OC or 0C DELICATE flashing light is too delicate.

Error Codes That Are Incorrect

Some dishwashers display any of the error codes listed above, even though the appliance continues to operate and drain normally. That indicates a draining problem. On the other hand, a false error code may also be displayed.

The dishwasher may also stop in the middle of a cycle after 9 minutes without any apparent reason.

If the Samsung Dishwasher ECS Sensor is broken or dirty, then the problem may not be with the drain. Unfortunately, these sensors deteriorate over time and may become dirty or cease to function.

It is necessary to locate and clean these sensors in order for this to work. If this doesn’t work, then you will have to replace the entire unit.

Why does your Samsung dishwasher is Not Draining?

When the dishwasher error code does not finish draining properly, consider the scenario 

Here are nine possible explanations for why this might be the case, as well as what you can do about it.

#1 The Drain Hose is Blocked

samsung-dishwasher-not-draining-cause-of-drain-hose-blocked

The drain hose connects to the dishwasher’s drain and sends the dirty water downstream. Typically, the drain hose is connected to the sink or the garbage disposal if both are installed in the same location.

If something is blocking the water flow through the drain hose of your Samsung dishwasher, it will be difficult for the dishwasher filter to drain all of the water.

Restricting the flow of water could be the result of a kinked hose. This is more likely in situations where the dishwasher and sink share a common drain.

Make sure not to block the drain water flow before using the garbage disposal if the appliance and the disposal are connected to the same drain.

#2 Check if the valve is damaged

samsung dishwasher not draining water valve

The dishwasher drain hose includes a check valve somewhere along its length, but it is not always visible. Using this valve ensures that water moves in only one direction, away from the dishwasher. Because of this protective measure, dirty water is prevented from reentering the dishwasher.

If the check valve on your Samsung dishwasher becomes stuck in either the open or closed position, any water that is being drained out of your dishwasher will be prevented from flowing into your home’s plumbing.

Your dishwasher will have the appropriate error codes in mind when it cannot properly drain.

If a check valve is faulty, the first step is to clean it and then reattach it in the correct position. It is possible that this will remove any dirt or debris that might be jamming the valve in the closed position.

However, if the check valve continues to cause problems even after you’ve cleaned it, it’s best to replace it with a new one instead. You can get a new check valve for a reasonable price, and it will last you for a long time.

#3 The problem could be with the dishwasher you’re connecting it to

Make sure the dishwasher drains properly by running water through the connected sink.

Make sure the garbage disposal’s drain plug is out if the dishwasher was just installed to ensure the garbage disposal is not blocked. The disposal’s drain plug must be removed if the dishwasher was installed recently.

#4 Check the connection between the dishwasher and the sink for leaks

An air gap or a high loop in the drain hose is required for a dishwasher to operate properly. The wastewater from the dishwasher is prevented from being recycled back into the dishwasher by these features.

The air gap is usually an adapter that is secured to a sink or kitchen cabinet. With this device, the air is forced into the hose to prevent wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher after being released.

At the sink, pass the drain hose through a high loop and make sure it stays below the sink.

If your dishwasher has a high loop drain hose or an air gap that is clogged, it may have trouble discharging properly. You can inspect and clean the air gap by removing the cover and cap.

#5 The Drain Pump Has Failed

The Samsung dishwasher has a drain pump at the bottom of it that uses an impeller to push used water out of the dishwasher and into your home plumbing system. The dishwasher pumps water through the drain hose and into your home plumbing system using an impeller.

A faulty drain pump may cause draining issues. The electrical or mechanical malfunction of this part can occur, depending on the source.

The pump could short out due to an electrical problem, or it may wear out due to excessive use and tear over several years. 

For example, a foreign object could mechanically jam the impeller, resulting in a malfunction. If the impeller gets stuck, it will be unable to empty the water trapped inside.

#6 Clean the filter, drain hose, sump, and tub after removing them

If your Samsung dishwasher features a removable filter, you may want to remove it. You can also clean out the drain pump by removing the filter. You should look for instructions in the owner’s manual for how to do this.

Removing the screws and cleaning the filter and pump assembly on your model might resolve the drainage problem if there is a filter assembly or pump cover that can be removed.

If the filter or pump cover is damaged, replacement is necessary to avoid further damage to the pump and motor seals.

To avoid getting hurt, always turn off the power and water lines before accessing the filter and pump assemblies on the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is not draining properly, you may be able to break down the food particles and minerals that have accumulated using a dishwasher cleaning product or white vinegar.

You can use white vinegar in this recipe; just place 1-2 cups into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. After that, close the dishwasher and proceed with the usual cycle.

#7 Look at the drain hose for blockages or kinks

The drain hose of the dishwasher may be blocked or kinked. To check, unplug the dishwasher and check the drain hose to ensure that it is not twisted or kinked.

Follow the guidelines in step 3 to run a cleaning solution through the dishwasher. If the problem persists, disconnect the drain hose from underneath the sink and thoroughly inspect it for blockages.

To clear out the blockage, connect the other end of the hose to a bucket and run a short cycle through the machine. If the pump is not working properly, this may demonstrate that the blockage has blown out of the hose into the bucket, or if the blockage blows out of the hose, it may demonstrate that the pump is not functioning properly.

Make sure you have another bucket on hand or that you have turned off the dishwasher so you can catch the water that has been discharged.

In order to inspect the location where the drain hose connects to the pump and, if necessary, to remove and clean it, the bottom front kick plate or access panel underneath the dishwasher must be removed.

#8 Check for damage on the solenoid valve

Sometimes, a drain solenoid valve is included on certain dishwashers, which activates when the water is prepared to leave the machine. The valve may cease to work as a result of abnormally high or low temperatures.

If the solenoid fails, the dishwasher will not drain.

The multimeter can be used to test the drain solenoid in the same manner as the pump motor to determine if it is connected properly. If the solenoid is defective, it should be replaced as soon as possible.

Typically, the solenoid is near the motor or the drain pump. You may remove the bottom front kick plate or the bottom access panel to gain access to the solenoid.

#9 There was a blockage in the water line assembly

In order to drain your Samsung dishwasher, you must run the water through the water inlet assembly on your way to the drain hose and out of the appliance.

You are likely experiencing drain issues with your dishwasher if the water inlet assembly is the source of the problem.

Because water passes through the water inlet assembly on its way to the drain hose, naturally occurring blockages at the water inlet assembly, consisting of food bits or other particles, can happen.

Once this blockage has remained untreated for long enough, it will eventually become severe enough that no more water will be able to flow through it. When this occurs, your Samsung dishwasher will display the appropriate error codes.

To correct this, you must remove the obstruction. You can locate the left-hand panel on your dishwasher above the water inlet assembly and then remove it. Afterward, you’ll want to remove the grey hoses attached to the assembly.

You should be able to remove any obstructions using your fingers or a small brush once the hoses are removed.

How to Diagnose a Samsung Dishwasher That Isn’t Draining properly?

Look at the sink drain

Make sure the garbage disposal is free of obstructions before running the dishwasher if it shares the drain with your garbage disposal. The dishwasher drain may be blocked if new disposal has yet to be installed. If the sink drain is visible, clear away any obstructions.

Look for signs of wear and tear on your Samsung dishwasher’s drain hose in #2

The water in your dishwasher may be there because the drain hose was not properly installed. Please refer to the diagram below for instructions on how to properly install the drain hose.

To ensure your Samsung dishwasher drain hose is properly positioned, here’s how you can tell:

Make sure the sink drains properly before you use it again

Running water for 30 seconds can check if the sink is properly draining. Instead of the dishwasher, a plumbing problem in the home may be to blame if water is backing up or draining slowly after running the water.

Clean your Samsung dishwashing machine’s drain, filter, and sump.It may be necessary to clean the drain, filter, and sump of a dishwasher in order to unclog it.

To clean a Samsung dishwasher’s filter, drain, and sump, follow these steps:

Remove any stubborn particles from the filter with a soft brush after thoroughly rinsing it under warm running water.

Remove the drain filter to access the drain pump cover. Use the handle to pull the drain pump cover up and remove any visible debris.

Make sure the sump at the bottom of the drain is clean after cleaning the area around the drain. If there is any visible debris in the sump, use a clothes hanger to remove them.

The dishwasher may be experiencing problems because of a malfunctioning component.

If the Samsung dishwasher does not drain after following these troubleshooting steps, a component may have failed.

The following component failures can result in a damaged Samsung dishwasher and/or incomplete washing:

The impeller on the drain pump pushes water through the drain pump and into the sink or disposal drain. If the impeller wears out, it must be replaced.

If a multimeter test reveals that the motor fails to maintain continuity, the entire pump must be replaced. In the event that the motor fails to maintain continuity, the drain pump is unable to function, rendering the pump inoperable.

Water is allowed to drain when the solenoid fails. The drain valve opens to prevent water from overflowing. If the solenoid breaks, it must be replaced.

How do I put my Samsung dishwasher in diagnostic mode?

Here’s how to set a Samsung dishwasher to diagnostic mode. To be clear, these steps apply to most Samsung washer models.

  1. Turn on the machine. The first thing you should do is turn it on.
  2. Press the Delay/Start button on the control panel.
  3. High Temp button.
  4. Start button Press and hold the High Temp button until the display reads “AS”. When you see “AS” on the screen, press and hold the Start button — release it almost immediately.
  5. You will now begin the test cycle (the time left until completion will be displayed on the screen).

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing issues with your Samsung dishwasher not draining fully, there could be several reasons why. One possible cause is a clogged filter. If your dishwasher’s filter is dirty or clogged, it can prevent water from draining properly. In this case, you should remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. Another possible cause is a faulty water inlet valve.

This valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher, and if it’s not working properly, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. If you’re experiencing an error code on your Samsung dishwasher, it’s important to refer to your user manual to determine the cause of the issue.

Some common error codes include a clogged filter error or a normal cycle error. Additionally, if you notice lights flashing on your dishwasher, this could also indicate an issue with the draining system. It’s important to address any issues with your Samsung dishwasher’s draining system promptly to avoid further damage or problems.

Not only is dishwashing a chore, but it also has the potential to be incredibly costly if you’re the one doing it. It’s critical to ensure your dishwasher is properly draining in order to prevent icky messes and unpleasant odors down the road. 

If you’re the one doing the dishwashing, you won’t have to spend your time scrubbing dried-on food off of plates and eating utensils that have been sitting in a contaminated water reservoir for days on end. It may result in a costly flood or leak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there water in the bottom of my Samsung dishwasher?

Accumulation of food or sediment within a dishwasher’s drain system can result in water collecting in the dishwasher’s bottom. In addition, filters, garbage disposals, drain hoses, drain pumps, and air gaps may become clogged.
Once the blockage has been identified and the debris has been removed, the problem will be solved.

How do I force drain my dishwasher?

If after pressing CANCEL or START on your dishwasher for three seconds, no water is drained, then your drain pump or drain hose is most likely jammed.

Why is there still water in the bottom of my dishwasher?

If there is standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher, this indicates that the appliance is not functioning properly. A clogged filter or drain hose may block the drain pump or impellers, preventing the water from draining.
The source of the problem could be a kinked or poorly installed drain hose or a blocked garbage disposal/kitchen sink drain line.

Where is the drain sensor on a Samsung dishwasher?

The drain filter is located in the bottom section of the Samsung dishwasher. Before water is drained out, water accumulates here.

How To Reset Samsung Dishwasher?

If you are experiencing dishwasher issues, whether an error code that won’t go away or problems with the washing cycle itself, a reset may be the answer to your troubles. Take a look at how to reset Samsung Dishwasher instructions, If you notice trouble with your appliance and want to fix it without calling a technician.

What do you do if your Samsung dishwasher won’t turn on?

If your Samsung dishwasher wont turn on check these steps:
1. Check the fuses
2. Check the electrical connections
3. Check the wires.
These might not be the cause of the problem but should check before troubleshooting and diagnose faultily.

How Do You Fix Samsung Dishwasher Auto and Heavy Blinking?

When you see a Samsung dishwasher auto and heavy blinking or lights NORMAL—HEAVY—SMART AUTO flashing that means If a component on the Samsung dishwasher is not functioning properly, you will be notified.
Errors on the Samsung dishwasher are not difficult to fix; slight adjustments to water temperature or drain hose installation should do the job.
Make sure to turn off the water before digging into what might be wrong with your Samsung dishwasher. Testing the voltage of the power outlet is also a great idea. Additionally, turn off the power supply.

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By Steve

👋 Hey there! I'm Steve. 29 years old, a technician that came from an Electronic and IT background. I love problem-solving and enjoy tinkering with electronics