The frustrating sight of error codes flashing on your washing machine display is enough to ruin anyone’s day. When a Samsung washer shows the cryptic SC error code, it leaves many owners scratching their heads wondering what’s wrong and how to fix it.
This extensive guide will explain everything you need to know about deciphering the SC code and correcting the problem on your Samsung washing machine. With some basic troubleshooting and repairs, you can eliminate the error code and get your washer working again.
What Causes the SC Error Code on Samsung Washers
The SC display indicates an issue with the washer’s drainage system that prevents water from properly evacuating during the cycle. There are a few common causes of the SC error code:
Clogged or Restricted Drain Pump Filter – This small filter catches coins, buttons, lint and other debris that can clog the drainage system. If the drain pump filter becomes overly dirty, water backs up and triggers the SC code.
Drain Pump Failure – The drain pump uses an impeller to force water out during the drain and spin cycles. If the pump motor fails, the impeller won’t turn to pump out the water. The washer control panel recognizes the drainage problem and activates the SC error code.
Kinked Drain Hose – The flexible drain hose runs from the back of the washer to a standalone pipe or laundry sink. Kinks in this hose block drainage and lead to SC errors.
Clogged Drainage Pipe – If your washing machine drains into a pipe that’s clogged with soap scum or other debris, it can impede drainage and activate the check drainage SC code.
Electrical Issues – Electrical faults with the drain pump motor, control board or wiring can prevent the pump from operating properly. This triggers the SC code on the display.
The common thread with all these issues is that they create a backup of water in the washing machine. When the control panel’s sensors detect the high water levels, it throws the SC error to alert you to the drainage problem.
Troubleshooting Tips to Diagnose Drainage Issues
When the SC error code pops up mid cycle, you’ll want to investigate the problem before your next load of laundry. Try these troubleshooting tips to zero in on the source of the drainage issue:
Check Drain Hose – Visually inspect the drain hose for any kinks, cracks or blockages. Straighten out any kinks and clear any clogs. Watch the drain hose during a spin cycle to make sure water flows freely.
Clean Drain Pump Filter – Unplug the washer and open the small access door on the front of the pump to locate the filter. Remove any coins, buttons or debris clogging the filter. Rinse under tap and replace.
Listen for Drain Pump Operation – Restart the washer and listen for sounds of the drain pump activating. If you hear only silence, the pump may be faulty. No humming means it’s not even trying to pump water out.
Check Control Panel for Error Codes – If you see other error codes besides SC, there may be other technical malfunctions with the washer. Note any codes that pop up during the cycle.
Wiggle Drain Hose – With washer unplugged, gently wiggle the drain hose while shining a flashlight on the interior. Look for any obstructions, sludge or lint buildup impeding drainage.
Test Drain Pump Voltage – Use a multimeter to check voltage at the pump motor terminals to determine if power is reaching the pump. No voltage indicates electrical issues are preventing pump operation.
By methodically working through these tests, you should be able to pinpoint what’s causing the backed up water and SC error on your particular washing machine.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix SC Error Code
Once you’ve diagnosed the specific problem, it’s time to take action to get your Samsung washer draining properly again. Follow this step-by-step guide to resolve common SC error causes:
Clear Clogged Drain Pump Filter
- Unplug washing machine from power source.
- Locate small access door on lower front panel of washer.
- Open access door carefully using a flathead screwdriver.
- Remove any debris like coins, buttons or lint clogging the filter.
- Rinse filter under running water to remove residue.
- Replace drain pump filter securely in housing.
- Close access door and plug washer back in.
Fix Kinked or Clogged Drain Hose
- Unplug washing machine and pull it out from wall.
- Locate plastic drain hose running from back of machine.
- Check for any kinks and straighten hose.
- Disconnect hose from drainage pipe or standpipe.
- Inspect interior for obstructions and clear any lint or debris.
- Reconnect hose securely to drain pipe or laundry sink.
- Push washer back into place and plug it in.
Replace Defective Drain Pump
- Unplug washing machine and turn off water supply valves.
- Remove back service panel and locate drain pump.
- Disconnect pump hoses and electrical terminal wires.
- Remove mounting screws to detach pump from washer frame.
- Install new OEM drain pump and reconnect hoses and wires.
- Reattach back panel, turn on water and plug in washer.
Repair Electrical Issues with Pump or Control Board
- Unplug washing machine and open rear service panel.
- Check all wiring connections to drain pump and control board.
- Using a multimeter, check voltage at drain pump when machine is running.
- If no voltage, test control board sensor and terminals.
- Replace defective control board or drain pump if voltage readings indicate component failure.
Preventing Future SC Error Codes
To avoid a recurrence of SC errors and drainage problems, incorporate these maintenance tips:
- Clean the drain pump filter every 3 months to prevent clogs.
- Inspect drain hose annually and replace if cracked or leaking.
- Use drain cleaner monthly to clear residue in standpipe.
- Avoid washing greasy or lint-shedding items that can clog system.
- Level washing machine properly to prevent kinks in drain hose.
- Don’t overload washer with too many clothes in load.
- Install catch sock over drain outlet to collect lint and debris.
Staying on top of routine maintenance keeps the drainage system clear and significantly reduces chances of SC errors in the future.
When to Call a Repair Technician for SC Code
DIY troubleshooting can clear up many minor drainage issues and SC errors. But if you’ve worked through all the steps above and the SC code persists, it’s time to call a Samsung technician. A repair pro has specialized tools and expertise to accurately diagnose and fix complex problems like:
- Faulty drain pump requiring replacement
- Damaged or leaking drain hoses
- Clogged standpipe or plumbing leaks
- Electrical shorts in control board or wiring
Most appliance repair experts charge around $80 to $150 per hour. However, the cost is often worthwhile to get your washer draining properly and eliminate that aggravating SC from your display.
Decoding Variations of Samsung Washer SC Error Codes
The basic SC indicates a general drain system clog. But other variations point to specific parts of the drainage system:
- SC UE – Drain pump failure. Requires pump replacement.
- SC DE – Clog or restriction in drain hose or standpipe.
- SC DC – Heavy lint buildup clogging drain pump filter.
So take note of the letters after the SC code when it appears. This extra detail guides you to the area requiring the most attention.
Samsung Drain Pump Replacement Cost
If the SC error ends up being caused by a malfunctioning drain pump, you’ll need to replace it to restore normal operation. The repair cost for this part runs about:
- Drain pump – $140 to $220
- Labor – $70 to $100
- Total pump replacement cost – $210 to $320
As you can see, a defective drain pump that causes the SC code can be pretty spendy to fix. That’s why it pays to try less expensive troubleshooting steps first, like cleaning the filter.
Ask for Second Opinion Before Drain Pump Replacement
Due to the high cost of replacing the drain pump, it’s smart to get a second opinion before approving the repair. Another appliance technician may find a different cause for the SC error that’s cheaper to fix.
Get a second quote from another repair company to compare:
- Ask them to review the SC error code and previous diagnosis.
- Request a detailed inspection to confirm pump is really faulty.
- Inquire about alternative sources of drainage clogs.
- Discuss if cleaning filter or drain repairs can resolve issue.
Thoroughly probing for other SC causes could reveal a simpler and less expensive solution. Doing your due diligence saves you from prematurely replacing the drain pump.
Compare Samsung Washer Drain Pump Brands
If drain pump replacement is unavoidable, you can shop around for cheaper brands than the OEM Samsung part. Aftermarket parts manufacturers make compatible drain pumps for Samsung washers that cost up to 50% less than the Samsung OEM pump.
OEM vs Aftermarket Drain Pump Prices
Samsung OEM pump – $200 to $250
Frigidaire aftermarket pump – $120 to $170
Whirlpool aftermarket pump – $100 to $150
While OEM pumps are built to the exact specifications of your Samsung washer, aftermarket versions function the same at a fraction of the price. Just confirm the replacement pump is an exact fit for your model.
DIY Samsung Washer Drain Pump Replacement
If you’re the ambitious DIY type, you can replace a defective Samsung washer drain pump on your own and save on labor charges. Here are some tips for DIY pump replacement:
- Watch online videos for step-by-step visual instructions.
- Take photos of hose and wiring connections before disassembly.
- Have a bucket ready to catch water when hoses are detached.
- Follow wiring schematic when reconnecting new pump.
- Test pump operation before reattaching back panel.
While homeowners save about $75 to $100 on labor by DIY, attempting drain pump repairs requires mechanical skills and plumbing knowledge. And DIY voids the Samsung warranty. So weigh pros and cons before taking the DIY route.
Extend Washer Life By Cleaning Drain Pump Regularly
Many SC errors can be avoided by staying on top of drain pump filter cleaning every 3 months. Follow these steps to maintain your Samsung washer pump:
- Unplug washer and open pump filter door.
- Remove filter and rinse under faucet to clear debris.
- Use small brush to dislodge stuck-on lint in filter if needed.
- Examine impeller in pump for obstructions.
- Replace filter securely and add 1 cup vinegar to empty washer drum.
- Run washer on rinse cycle to flush vinegar through pump.
This simple maintenance keeps drain components clear of debris that can lead to costly SC errors and repairs down the road.
Samsung Washer Drain System DIY Repairs
Many SC triggering obstructions can be cleared with basic DIY repairs:
Kinked Hose – Straighten any hose kinks and secure properly.
Clogged Hose – Detach and flush out with water pressure.
Standpipe Clog – Snake a plumber’s auger down pipe to pull out lint and gunk.
Loose Hose – Reconnect hoses securely with hose clamps.
With simple tools and plumbing knowledge, homeowners can often remedy drain issues themselves that cause the SC code.
Samsung Washer Drain Hose Length Limits
Samsung specifies that the washer drain hose must not exceed 8 feet in length for proper drainage. Exceeding this limit can lead to:
- Water backup due to pump strain.
- Kinked hose from too much bending or twisting.
- Reduced water flow causing SC error.
Refer to your specific Samsung washer manual for recommended drain hose configurations and length limits to avoid drainage failures.
Does Samsung Warranty Cover SC Error Code?
If your Samsung washer is still under the 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, drainage issues that cause the SC code are covered under warranty. Samsung will provide free in-home service to diagnose and repair the problem.
However, damage from improper installation or failure to clean the drain pump filter regularly would not be covered by Samsung. Review what service is included with your model’s warranty.
Key Takeaways on SC Error Code Fixes
Being knowledgeable and proactive are the keys to successfully resolving SC drainage errors on your Samsung washer:
- Clean the drain pump filter regularly every 3 months.
- Inspect the drain hose and standpipe for obstructions.
- Confirm electrical connections to pump are intact.
- Try inexpensive troubleshooting steps before replacing the pump.
- Leverage Samsung’s warranty coverage when applicable.
Staying on top of maintenance and attempting DIY repairs first can get your Samsung washer draining smoothly again without breaking the bank! With the proper attention, that frustrating SC error will not keep your washer down for long.