Samsung · Dishwasher
Samsung Dishwasher SE Error Code
Drain error variant of 5E family
What this error means
SE displays the same drain fault as 5E and 5C on Samsung firmware variants—the pump ran but water level did not fall below the sensor threshold in time. Letter S versus numeral 5 is display formatting only on many units.
How SE is detected
When SE appears on a Samsung dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Samsung DW80N3030US, Samsung DW80R7031US, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most SE calls are resolved without parts: follow full filter and sump cleaning procedure for 5e. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If SE returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Identical root causes to 5E—filter, hose, disposal plug, pump
- Check valve flapper stuck closed after glass chip jam
- Air gap overflow blocked on codes-compliant installs
- Weak drain pump motor capacitor on older units
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Follow full filter and sump cleaning procedure for 5E
- 2Punch through disposal drain knockout if this is a new kitchen install
- 3Verify air gap cap is clear if plumbed through countertop air gap
- 4Run Cancel/Drain twice—second attempt sometimes clears suds lock
When to call a technician
SE with verified clear path and audible pump requires drain pump replacement.
Affected models
- Samsung DW80N3030US
- Samsung DW80R7031US
- Samsung DW80B6060US
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent SE from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when SE appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Samsung dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for SE; Samsung uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting SE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.