Monogram Dishwasher C5 Error: Not draining properly
The C5 error code indicates the dishwasher is not draining properly. Unlike C2 which is a complete drain timeout, C5 signals that the control board has detected water still present in the tub at a point in the cycle when the tub should be empty, suggesting a partial or intermittent drain failure.
~20%
DIY Fixable
From $200
Typical Repair Cost
1–3 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. Light use is acceptable while troubleshooting, but running full cycles with persistent standing water accelerates pump wear and degrades wash performance. Resolve the issue promptly.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Press cancel/drain to force a drain attempt and reset the fault. If the obstruction is cleared, the code should not return on the next cycle.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Stop if standing water is consistently present at the end of every cycle despite filter and air gap cleaning., Stop if the drain pump makes grinding or rattling sounds, which can indicate debris lodged in the impeller causing mechanical damage..
Symptoms You May Notice
Water visible in the bottom of the tub mid-cycle
Opening the door during or after a cycle reveals a noticeable amount of water sitting in the tub base, sometimes mixed with food particles and detergent foam.
C5 shown on the display
The alphanumeric display shows C5 and the cycle is interrupted, typically during a transition between wash and rinse phases.
Slow water recession during drain phase
Water drains from the tub very slowly — you can hear the pump working, but the gurgling sounds continue much longer than normal before the drain phase ends.
Recurring foul odor between uses
Residual water in the sump area that fails to drain completely creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, producing a persistent musty or sewage-like smell.
Possible Causes
Partially clogged filter or sump area
Even a partially clogged filter assembly restricts drain flow enough to cause the C5 fault. Small bones, glass chips, or compacted grease can reduce flow without completely blocking it.
DIY PossibleAir gap or standpipe blockage
A clogged air gap fitting on the countertop or a partially blocked standpipe where the drain hose connects can restrict discharge flow enough to trigger a C5 without fully preventing drainage.
DIY PossibleWeak or failing drain pump
A drain pump impeller that is partially broken or a motor winding that has weakened with age may still turn but cannot generate enough pressure to fully evacuate the tub within the control board's accepted parameters.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Remove and deep clean the filter assembly
Remove the bottom rack, twist out the cylindrical filter, and lift the flat mesh filter beneath it. Scrub both pieces thoroughly with a soft brush and dish soap. Inspect the sump cavity below for trapped debris.
Small pieces of broken glass or fruit pits often sink to the sump cavity and block drain flow without being caught by the filter.
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2
Clean the air gap if installed
Remove the decorative cap from the air gap fitting on the countertop, unscrew the plastic body, and clear any debris from both the inlet and outlet ports using a bottle brush or pipe cleaner.
Run water from the faucet into the sink while the air gap is disassembled to flush any stubborn blockages into the drain.
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3
Run a diagnostic drain cycle
After cleaning the filter and air gap, reset the dishwasher by pressing cancel/drain. Listen to the drain pump during the drain phase — it should run loudly for 60 to 90 seconds and then stop as the tub empties.
A drain cycle that never stops or runs more than two minutes suggests a drain restriction still exists downstream.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- All accessible drain path components are clean and clear, yet water still fails to fully evacuate the tub.
- The drain pump runs but produces no audible water movement, indicating impeller damage or motor failure.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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