The first time I saw the SE error code pop up on my Samsung washer, I went into a full-blown panic, and for good reason. I had a washer full of laundry and more loads to go. Blame that on the kids and my procrastination.
Error codes for Samsung washers, like all error codes, are usually indicative of faults that develop within the washer. The SE code is no exception. If you see this code displayed on the display panel of your Samsung washer, there’s no need to worry. You’ll need to fix this issue to prevent further mishaps plaguing your Samsung washer.
What Does SE Mean?
The SE error code is one in a very long line of error codes in Samsung washers installed to inform you about a particular defect concerning drainage.
If you see this code, it means that your washer does not drain its wastewater in the stipulated time input after it has completed the washing cycle during laundry.
When programming the laundry settings on your washer, there’s usually a time frame allocated to the cycle. This cycle depends on the level of soil in the laundry and the size of the laundry load.
You should fix this issue ASAP so that the SE or 5E code can be cleared from the display.
Why do I see SE on My Samsung Washer?
As I mentioned earlier, the SE code on your washer means that the drainage system of your Samsung washer is faulty and needs immediate repair.
Now, let’s look at some reasons why your washer might be displaying this error.
- Dirty drain filter
Many times, it’s the drain filter that’s at fault. It’s probably due to many laundry cycles and huge loads of dirty laundry.
The dirt and debris from the laundry; some large, some small tend to get stuck on the filter that removes the dirt from the wastewater.
This causes the wastewater not to flow out of the washer and causes a backup which can even result in washer smells if left to sit for a long time.
- Blockages in the drain pipes
This is also another big reason for the drainage problem of your washer.
The pipes that drain the water used during laundry could be defective and also a cause of the drainage problem.
There could be clogs in the pipes as a result of accumulated dirt or something big stuck in the pipe’s length. The pipes could be bent or misshapen probably when it was being installed.
Sometimes, the drain pipes can be inundated with water so much that it’s badly damaged.
- Faulty drain pumps
Washers have got drain pumps to effectively provide the force to pump the wash water out of the washer’s compartment.
This component is a very essential part of your washer and can be damaged due to a mechanical or electrical fault. It could also be that the valve that links the drain pump is defective or worst case; it breaks.
Now that’s going to result in your washer displaying the SE error code.
- Faulty control board
Sometimes, your washer might be draining the wastewater away and the control boards not picking it up on the sensors.
The control board of your washer is like the brain of the washer. A command center.
Now, this center may not be able to function properly probably due to bad circuitry or faulty pressure switches which signal the control board to drain or put in more water. That’s when the SE error displays on your washer.
- Full tank
It could also be that the tank that the waste water is draining into might be full or that there’s an improper connection between the pipes and the waste pipe or the drainage destination.
This causes the water to back up and clog the washer’s drainage system leading to the SE error display on your Samsung washer.
How Do I Fix SE On My Samsung Washer?
You can easily fix this SE display on your washer before you troubleshoot it (Try going through your washer’s manual to get an idea of how that’s done).
To fix this issue, you’ll have to follow the steps below.
- Turn off your washer
If you discover that your washer is experiencing drainage issues, first turn off your washer to stop the laundry cycle.
Trying to fix the problem when your washer is still powered can be very dangerous for you and your washing machine. Water and electricity when combined are not your friends.
- Ensure your washer is level
Next, remove the laundry from your washer and store them in a container for the time being.
Then, make sure your washer is level. You can do this by using a level tool to measure after balancing the washer firmly on whatever surface it is on.
Now, if you like, you can drain the wastewater from the washer’s interior manually by using a little pail.
- Examine and remove clogs from the drain pipes
After removing whatever is inside the washer, it’s time to check for clogs and defects in the washer’s drain pipes.
First, run water through the pipes. If it’s showing signs of resistance, then it’s clogged. Run the water at a much-increased pressure through the pipe to dislodge the blockage or you can use a snake tool to do this.
If it isn’t clogged, disconnect the pipes, then check for any noticeable faults like twists and bends and fix them or replace them if they’re irreparable.
You can place the hose in a stand-pipe about 90 to 100cm high according to Samsung specifications.
- Examine the washer’s drain pump and fix it
You can access the drain pump from an access panel located behind the washer in some types or under the washer.
You can do this by yourself or you can call a washer technician to help you with it.
You’ll have to detach the drain pump line and check its wiring to rule out any electrical fault. You can use a multimeter to check if electricity still powers it. If it’s not, you’ll need to get a new one.
Then remove the pump with a screw and check for any visible physical defects.
- Clean the washer’s drain filter
Next, check the drain filter of the washer to remove the dirt and debris that may be clogging it.
To do this, access the filter panel on the washer. Once inside, take off the cover from the drain pipe and clean the filter underneath it. A little soap and water with a small brush ought to do the trick.
Then you can dry the filter, return its cover, and close the filter access panel.
- Turn your washer back on
Now, you can reconnect your washer to its power source and turn the washer back on to see if the problem is solved.
- Reset your washer
I’ll recommend you try this after you’ve done all that was mentioned above.
Resetting your washer is quite easy. There are many ways to reset Samsung washers, you’ll just need to check here to get more information on this.
If your washer doesn’t have a reset button, you can download the Samsung Smart Home App and use your smartphone to reset it.
One maintenance tip I’ll recommend for your washer is that you use proper HE detergents to prevent excessive foaming in your Samsung washers. That can also be a cause of drainage issues.
Also, utilize the Self-Clean feature on your Samsung washer to rid it of dirt and nasty smells.