Bosch Dishwasher E24 Error: Drain Pump Blocked

The E24 error code indicates that your Bosch dishwasher cannot pump out water within the expected timeframe. This is one of the most common Bosch error codes and is usually caused by a blockage in the drain path.

What the E24 Error Code Means

When your Bosch dishwasher displays E24:

• The drain pump has tried to remove water
• Water remains in the sump after the drain cycle
• A blockage exists somewhere in the drain path
• The dishwasher has stopped to prevent overflow

You’ll likely see standing water in the bottom of the tub.

Model Coverage

This guide applies to Bosch dishwashers displaying E24:

• Bosch 100 Series: SHEM, SHE2 models
• Bosch 300 Series: SHP, SHE3 models
• Bosch 500 Series: SHP5, SHPM5 models
• Bosch 800 Series: SHP8, SHPM8 models
• Bosch Benchmark series
• Models manufactured 2016-2024

Common Causes

1. Clogged drain filter (most common)
2. Kinked drain hose
3. Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed
4. Air gap blockage (if installed)
5. Drain pump impeller blocked
6. Drain pump motor failure

Step-by-Step Fix

Step 1: Remove Standing Water

Make filter access easier:

1. Open the door carefully
2. Use towels to absorb standing water
3. Or use a wet/dry vacuum
4. This prevents mess when removing the filter

Step 2: Clean the Filter Assembly

The filter is the most common cause:

1. Remove the lower rack
2. Locate the filter at the bottom center of the tub
3. Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise to unlock
4. Lift out the cylindrical filter
5. Remove the flat mesh filter beneath it
6. Rinse both filters under running water
7. Use a soft brush to remove stuck debris
8. Check the sump cavity for glass, bones, or debris
9. Reinstall the flat filter, then the cylindrical filter
10. Turn clockwise to lock—ensure it’s properly seated

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose

The drain hose connects the dishwasher to your plumbing:

1. Locate the drain hose under the sink
2. Trace it from the dishwasher to the disposal or drain
3. Check for kinks, sharp bends, or pinches
4. Ensure the hose rises to at least countertop level (high loop)
5. Straighten any kinks you find

Step 4: Check Garbage Disposal Connection

If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal:

1. New disposals have a knockout plug in the dishwasher drain port
2. This plug must be removed during installation
3. Have someone check if the knockout is still in place
4. If blocked, the plug must be knocked out and removed

Step 5: Clear the Air Gap (If Installed)

Some installations have a countertop air gap:

1. Remove the decorative cap
2. Remove the inner cap
3. Clean out any debris or buildup
4. Use a brush to clear the passages
5. Reassemble

Step 6: Check the Drain Pump

If filter and hose are clear:

1. With the filter removed, look deeper into the sump
2. Use a flashlight to see the pump impeller area
3. Look for debris blocking the impeller
4. Some models have a pump cover you can remove
5. Carefully remove any visible obstructions (watch for glass)

Step 7: Power Reset

After cleaning:

1. Close the door
2. Press and hold Start for 3-5 seconds
3. Or turn off the circuit breaker for 1 minute
4. Run a rinse cycle to test drainage

Testing the Drain Pump

If drainage is still poor after cleaning:

Listen for the Pump

1. Start a cycle
2. Listen at the bottom of the dishwasher during drain phase
3. Humming but no draining: Pump is blocked or impeller is broken
4. No sound at all: Pump motor may have failed

Check for Pump Blockage

Small items can jam the pump impeller:

• Broken glass shards
• Seeds or pits
• Small bones
• Pieces of broken dishware
• Toothpicks

Access may require removing the lower spray arm and sump cover.

When to Call a Tech

Contact a professional if:

• E24 persists after thorough cleaning
• You hear humming but no drainage
• You hear nothing during drain phase
• You can’t access or clear the pump
• The drain hose or pump needs replacement

Drain pump replacement on Bosch dishwashers typically requires removing the unit and accessing the base.

Sources

For official Bosch support:

• Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

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