Bosch E24 Error: Drain Pump Blocked / Filter Clogged
Fix Bosch dishwasher error code E24 (drain problem).
Drain fault. The dishwasher microprocessor detects high resistance or lack of water movement through the drain pump circuit within the first 2 minutes of the cycle.
Probable Causes
Food debris, lemon seeds, or broken glass wedged under the drain pump plastic impeller cover.
White rubber non-return check valve flap stuck closed or deformed by grease.
Kinked drain hose or clogged sink garbage disposal knockout connection.
Diagnostic & Testing Steps
- •Dishwasher beeps at start of cycle and displays E24 fault code.
- •Water remains standing in the bottom of the stainless tub.
- •Drain pump hums or clicks for 60 seconds before entering error shutdown.
Tools & Equipment Required
- ✓Cut-Resistant Safety GlovesProtects hands against sharp broken glass shards commonly lodged in the sump filter basin.
- ✓Blunt Spoon Handle or Plastic Trim ToolSafely unclip and pry off the white plastic pump impeller cover.
- ✓Absorbent Towel & Heavy-Duty SpongeFor soaking up and removing standing dirty water from the bottom basin.
- ✓Small Inspection FlashlightTo visually verify the black impeller blades and rubber non-return check flap seat.
Fast Reset Sequence: Bosch Keypad Reset (3-Second Hold)
Before unmounting panels or beginning diagnostic procedures, attempt this manufacturer reset to clear transient microcomputer lockouts:
- 1.Press and hold the Start/Reset button firmly for 3 to 5 seconds until the display shows 0:01 or the active LED cancels.
- 2.Close the door and let the internal drain pump execute its 60-second water purge cycle.
- 3.Switch Power OFF, wait 10 seconds, then power back ON to reprogram a normal wash cycle.
- 1
Step 1: Remove Sump Filter & Debris in Impeller Cavity
[ ] DoneTwist filter counterclockwise, lift out, and sponge out water. Unlatch white plastic curved pump cover with a teaspoon.
Verification:Black impeller wheel rotates freely with slight magnetic step resistance; cavity clear of foreign debris. - 2
Step 2: Pry Off Pump Cover & Inspect Non-Return Check Valve
[ ] DonePinch and pull out the flexible rubber non-return check flap located inside the sump recess.
Verification:Rubber flap is flexible, free of grease coating, and seats flush against its plastic sealing rim. - 3
Step 3: Re-seat Pump Cover and Run Diagnostic Test Cycle
[ ] DoneSnap pump cover back until an audible click is heard (critical: missing click causes immediate E24 trip). Check drain hose under sink, then run a 30-minute rinse program.
Verification:Dishwasher drains water completely in under 45 seconds without error tones.
Repair Solutions
Remove micro-mesh cylindrical filter and scoop out pooled water in the sump basin.
Unclip white plastic pump impeller cover and spin the impeller wheel by hand.
Ensure kitchen sink drain trap and garbage disposal connection are free of grease blockages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Bosch dishwasher show E24 even after cleaning the pump?
The pump impeller cover must click firmly into place. If the cover is loose by even 1 millimeter, water recirculates internally and triggers E24.
How do I test the Bosch drain pump motor with a multimeter?
Measure resistance across the 3 pump motor pins. A healthy brushless DC (BLDC) pump should read identical resistance (85–95 Ω) between all pin pairs.