Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining? Understanding Error E24 and How to Fix It

When your Bosch dishwasher isn’t draining and shows an E24 error code, it can be both frustrating and concerning. A dishwasher full of standing water is certainly not doing its job! The E24 code specifically indicates a drainage problem – typically that the dishwasher is not draining properly due to a blockage in the drain system. You might notice water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle or hear unusual gurgling noises as the appliance struggles to pump out water. In this article, we’ll explain what the E24 error means, why it occurs, and how you can troubleshoot and fix it. Along the way, we’ll provide step-by-step guidance for common solutions and important safety warnings for any DIY repair. We’ll also discuss when it’s time to call in a professional – and if you’re in Winnipeg or Toronto, how Appliance Fix Lab (your local Bosch appliance experts) can help get your dishwasher back in working order. Let’s dive in and get that Bosch dishwasher draining properly again!

What Does the Bosch Dishwasher E24 Error Code Mean?

Bosch error code E24 is a specific indication that the dishwasher’s water isn’t draining as it should. According to Bosch’s documentation, an E24 typically means the drain filter or drain path is blocked, preventing wastewater from evacuating. When this happens, the dishwasher’s cycle may halt and display “E24” to alert you to the issue. In practical terms, you’ll likely find the bottom of your dishwasher still filled with dirty water when you open the door. In some cases, the dishwasher might stop mid-cycle or not start a new wash at all because it detects that it cannot drain properly.

Why does this error happen? Bosch dishwashers have a filter and pump system designed to remove food particles and water at the end of a cycle. If food debris clogs the filter or pump, water can’t flow out to the drain hose. The control system senses the blockage and triggers the E24 code. In addition to standing water, you may hear the drain pump humming without much result, or intermittent pauses in operation as the unit tries to drain. All these symptoms point toward a drainage clog or restriction, which is exactly what E24 signifies.

In summary, E24 = “Drain Issue.” It’s usually not an electrical or software glitch, but a mechanical issue: something in the drainage system is preventing water from flowing out. The good news is that in many cases, this is a fixable problem you can address at home. However, it’s important to identify the cause correctly and resolve it thoroughly – which we’ll cover in the next sections. Common Causes of a Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining (E24)

Why would a well-made Bosch dishwasher suddenly refuse to drain? There are a few common causes for the E24 error or any general “not draining” problem:

• Clogged or Dirty Filter: The filter at the base of the dishwasher interior is the first thing to check. Over time, food particles, soggy labels, or bits of broken glass can accumulate and block water flow. A consistently clogged filter will not only lead to poor cleaning and bad odors (from recirculating dirty water) but eventually prevent drainage altogether. Bosch themselves note that food debris trapped in the filter or pump is the most common reason for drain issues.

• Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose: The drain hose carries water from the dishwasher to your household drain (under the sink or to a garbage disposal). If this hose becomes kinked, pinched, or clogged, water can’t flow out. This might happen if the dishwasher is pushed back too far against the wall, pinching the hose, or if gunk accumulates inside the hose over time. A bent hose or an improper installation without a “high loop” can also cause drainage issues by allowing water to flow back in or not flow out efficiently.

• Blocked Drain Pump or Impeller: Inside the dishwasher’s sump (bottom area) is the drain pump – a small motor with an impeller that pushes water out. If something like a piece of glass, bone, or large food particle gets past the filter, it can jam the pump impeller or clog the pump inlet/outlet. A telltale sign of a pump blockage is a humming or grinding noise as the dishwasher tries to drain. Bosch dishwashers also have a removable pump cover beneath the filter; if this cover is loose or misaligned, it can hinder the impeller’s movement and cause drainage failure. (In Bosch error code terminology, a completely blocked pump or loose pump cover might trigger an E25 error, which is closely related to E24. In many cases, though, E24 and E25 can appear together or interchangeably when there’s a drain problem.)

• Garbage Disposal Knockout Plug Not Removed: If your dishwasher’s drain is connected to a kitchen garbage disposal, and if that disposal was installed recently, a very common issue is the knockout plug. New disposals come with a plastic plug in the dishwasher inlet that must be removed (knocked out) to allow water flow. If the plug isn’t removed, the dishwasher’s water has nowhere to go and backs up, instantly causing an E24 situation. Even professionals sometimes forget this during installation! So, if your E24 error appeared right after installing a new disposal, this is likely the culprit.

• Clogged Air Gap (if present): Some kitchen sink setups have an air gap – a small cylindrical fixture mounted on or near the sink faucet. The air gap prevents backflow of water into the dishwasher. If it becomes clogged with debris, it can block the dishwasher’s drain path and even cause water to overflow on the countertop during draining. Not all homes have an air gap (some use a high loop in the drain hose instead), but if you do, it’s worth checking for blockages there as well.

• Faulty Drain Pump or Sensor: Less commonly, the issue might not be a simple clog but a failed drain pump motor or a malfunctioning sensor. A burned-out pump won’t spin at all (you’d likely get an E25 code in that case, indicating the pump can’t remove water). A faulty sensor on the control board could erroneously detect a problem when there isn’t one, though this is rare. Generally, if the pump has power and isn’t mechanically jammed but still doesn’t evacuate water, it may need replacement by a professional.

These are the typical causes behind a Bosch dishwasher not draining. In most cases, the issue is something obstructing the flow of water, which you can find by a bit of inspection and troubleshooting. In the next section, we’ll walk through how to identify and fix each of these problems step by step.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix a Bosch Dishwasher That Won’t Drain (Step-by-Step)

Before you begin any troubleshooting, always put safety first. Unplug the dishwasher or flip off its circuit breaker, and turn off the water supply valve before you start inspecting or disassembling anything. Dishwashers are connected to high-voltage electricity and water, so you want to eliminate the risk of shock or leaks while working. (Bosch’s guidance and experts universally stress disconnecting power and water before maintenance.) Make sure you have some towels on hand to catch any water that might spill, and if you’ll be reaching into tight spaces, wearing cut-resistant gloves can protect your hands from sharp edges inside the appliance.

With those precautions in mind, let’s go through the fixes:

1. Clean the Filter

Remove and clean the filter: Open your dishwasher door and pull out the lower dish rack to access the bottom. You’ll see the filter unit covering the drain – usually a cylindrical mesh filter and maybe a flat screen beside it. Twist and lift out the filter (check your manual for the exact method; most Bosch filters unlock with a quarter-turn). Rinse the filter under running water and scrub it gently with a soft brush or sponge to remove all. Clear any gunk on the filter itself and also look into the filter housing (the hole where the filter sits) – remove any bits of food, glass, or grime you can reach. A clogged filter is often the main reason for slow or no drainage, so cleaning it thoroughly is crucial.

Once clean, reinstall the filter by placing it back and twisting it to lock securely. Ensure it sits flush; an improperly seated filter could let debris bypass it (or interfere with the pump cover). This simple step often resolves the E24 error if the filter was the only issue.

2. Check the Drain Pump and Impeller

While you have the filter out, it’s a good opportunity to inspect the drain pump impeller just beneath it. Look into the opening below the filter – you might see a small plastic cover (impeller cover). On many Bosch models, you can reach the drain pump area from inside the tub once the filter is removed. Use a flashlight if needed.

If there’s a plastic pump cover, make sure it’s properly secured (gently press down or twist it until it’s snug). A loose pump cover can cause the E24/E25 error by letting debris in or blocking the impellers. Next, if you can see or touch the impeller (a small fan-like blade), give it a spin with your finger or a screwdriver (the power is off!). It should turn freely. If it’s jammed or very stiff, there may be something wrapped around it or stuck inside the pump. Carefully remove any debris you find – pieces of broken glass, bones, twist ties, etc. can lodge in the impeller chamber. Needle-nose pliers or tweezers can help grab objects. Be cautious and never force the impeller if it’s stuck on something you can’t see; at that point, you might need to access the pump from underneath (which is a more advanced task we’ll mention shortly).

If you did pull out some obstruction or the impeller was jammed, after clearing it and reassembling, try a test run to see if the problem is solved. Often, freeing a stuck pump will immediately allow the dishwasher to drain and clear the error.

(Advanced step – optional): If you suspect a major clog or want to inspect the pump more thoroughly, you might need to access the drain pump from beneath the dishwasher. This involves removing the lower kick plate (toe panel) at the bottom front of the machine (usually a couple of screws). With the dishwasher unplugged and water off, you can then reach the pump where it connects to the drain hose. This step is usually not necessary unless steps 1–3 haven’t fixed the issue, or you heard loud noises suggesting a serious obstruction. If you do go this far, disconnect the drain hose from the pump (have a bucket or towel ready for water) and inspect the pump inlet for. Also, check the pump’s impeller by hand from this side; if it doesn’t turn freely and you can’t clear it, the pump might have failed. For most users, if it comes to this, it might be wise to call a professional (we’ll discuss more below), as replacing a pump requires some skill.*

3. Inspect the Drain Hose (and Air Gap)

Next, inspect the drain hose that runs from the dishwasher to your sink drain or garbage disposal. A very common scenario is that the hose is kinked or bent, especially if someone recently shoved the dishwasher back into place after maintenance or. Locate where the hose exits the dishwasher (usually behind the kick plate area) and ensure it has a proper “high loop” (it should go up near the underside of the countertop before going down to the drain, to prevent backflow). If you can, pull the dishwasher out from under the counter a few inches to give you slack to inspect the hose along its length.

• Straighten any kinks or sharp bends. A pinched hose will block water flow. Simply relieving that pinch might fix your drain issue immediately.

• If the hose is clogged (for example, with grease or food sludge over the years), you can disconnect the hose from the sink drain or disposal to check. Place a bucket under it and see if you can blow through the hose or run water through it. Use a long flexible brush or pipe cleaner to snake through and dislodge any gunk if. In some cases, a chunk of food or even a small utensil can be stuck in the hose elbow – clearing it out will restore flow.

• Check the air gap (if you have one): If your sink has an air gap fitting (a small metal or plastic cap on the sink or countertop), pop the cap off and clean out the air gap. Debris buildup there will mimic a hose clog. Often, cleaning the air gap (remove any food gunk inside and ensure the outlet isn’t blocked) will solve the drainage. You might notice water sputtering out of the air gap when the dishwasher runs if it’s clogged – a sure sign it needs cleaning.

After inspecting and cleaning the hose (and air gap), reattach everything securely (make sure hose clamps are tight to prevent leaks).

Pro tip: Ensure the drain hose is installed with a high loop or attached to an air gap as per Bosch’s installation guidelines. Without a proper rise, dirty water can flow back into the dishwasher or not drain completely. This won’t usually trigger E24 by itself, but it can contribute to poor draining performance.

4. Check the Garbage Disposal Connection

If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal unit under the sink, double-check this critical detail: has the knockout plug been removed? When a new garbage disposal is installed, there is a solid plug closing off the inlet where the dishwasher hose connects. If that plug remains in place, the dishwasher’s drain water has no exit, and the water will back up immediately – resulting in an E24 error every time. This is especially suspect if your dishwasher has never drained properly since a new disposal installation.

To check, disconnect the dishwasher’s drain hose from the disposal (again, have a bucket to catch water). Use a screwdriver or your finger to feel inside the disposal’s inlet where the hose was attached. If you feel a solid blockage just inside that opening, the plug is still there. To remove it, detach the disposal (unplug it and follow the manufacturer’s instructions – often you can use a screwdriver and hammer to punch out the plug from inside the disposal’s mounting hole). Remove the plastic plug piece (it may fall into the disposal grinding chamber – retrieve it so it doesn’t cause future jams). Once removed, reattach everything. Now your dishwasher’s hose will flow freely into the disposal.

Many times, simply removing this knockout plug completely resolves an E24. It’s one of those “simple but easy to miss” installation steps.

5. Reset and Test the Dishwasher

After performing the above checks and fixes, it’s a good idea to reset your dishwasher to clear the error code before testing. On Bosch models, you can typically reset by pressing and holding the Start button for 3–5 seconds or by simply disconnecting power to the dishwasher for a few minutes and plugging it back in. (Check your user manual for the specific reset procedure if needed.) Bosch advises that after fixing the underlying issue, a reset may be required to clear the E24 code.

Now, run a short wash cycle (or the dishwasher’s rinse cycle) to test the drainage. Make sure you’ve restored power and water supply for this test. Observe the dishwasher during the drain phase: do you hear the pump running and water flowing out to the sink drain? If you open the door after the cycle, is the water gone from the bottom of the machine? With the fixes implemented, the dishwasher should now drain properly without errors.

Keep an eye on the first full cycle after the fix – if you still see the E24 error or it stops mid-cycle again, then further investigation is needed (see the next section on when to call a professional). But in many instances, cleaning the filter, clearing clogs, or unkinking the hose will have solved the problem, and your Bosch dishwasher should be back to its efficient self.

Quick recap of DIY fixes: Clear the filter, check the pump for obstructions, ensure the drain hose (and air gap) is clear and not kinked, and verify any garbage disposal connection is open. These steps address the most common causes of E24. Always restore the unit to proper condition (filters and covers in place, hoses tightly connected) before running it again.

Safety Warnings for DIY Dishwasher Repair

Repairing a dishwasher involves working with both electricity and water, which can be a dangerous combination if you’re not careful. We applaud DIY enthusiasm – many Appliance Fix Lab followers on our YouTube channel learn and fix things themselves – but we always emphasize safety first. Here are some critical safety tips to keep in mind whenever you’re troubleshooting or repairing your Bosch dishwasher (or any appliance):

• Disconnect Power Before Anything Else: This is worth repeating: always unplug the dishwasher or switch off the circuit breaker before you start opening panels, removing parts, or even reaching into the appliance. Dishwashers are typically hardwired or plugged into an outlet under the sink; find that connection and pull it out, or flip the breaker at your electrical panel. This eliminates the risk of electric shock while you work. Never assume simply having the dishwasher “off” on the control panel is enough – you want it completely de-energized.

• Shut Off the Water Supply: Turn off the water valve that supplies the dishwasher (usually located under the sink). This prevents unexpected flooding if you disconnect a hose or if something starts leaking while you inspect. It’s usually a simple quarter-turn valve – close it before moving the dishwasher or removing any hoses.

• Beware of Sharp Edges: The internal components and sheet-metal panels of a dishwasher can have surprisingly sharp edges. When reaching into the filter opening or working under the unit, wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts. Also, be cautious of metal brackets or screws that might be exposed when you remove toe-kicks or panels.

• Mind the Moving Parts: Even with power off, parts like the pump impeller or spray arm could move while you’re working. Never place your fingers where they could get pinched by an impeller blade if it were to spin unexpectedly. If you manually rotate the dishwasher’s motor or impeller, do it gently. And of course, with power on (during testing), keep hands clear of all internal parts.

• Use Proper Tools, Not Make-Shift Solutions: When fixing wiring or hoses, use the right connectors and clamps. For example, if you splice a wire, solder it, or use a rated connector and heat-shrink tubing rather than just wrapping tape, which can unravel in a damp environment (appliancefixlab.ca). Tighten hose clamps firmly to prevent leaks, and put back all screws you remove from panels (missing screws could lead to a loose fit or even leaks around the door if the frame isn’t tight).

• Do Not Bypass Safety Features: It might be tempting for some to try and “trick” the dishwasher to get it running – for instance, shorting out a float switch to stop an error. Never bypass sensors or safety switches. If a float switch (leak detector) is giving an error like E15 (for water in the base), it’s doing its job to protect you from a flood. Disabling it without fixing the root cause could result in serious water damage to your kitchen. Always address the cause of an error; don’t try to simply turn the alarm off.

• Work in a Dry Environment: Ensure your work area is dry. Don’t work in puddles. If you drain water from the dishwasher, mop up spills immediately. Keep electrical tools and cords away from wet areas. A dry floor and dry hands will reduce the risk of shock.

• Know Your Limits: Perhaps the most important advice – stop if you feel unsure or unsafe at any point. There is no shame in backing off from a repair that turns out to be more complex than anticipated. You can always put things back together and seek professional help. Your safety (and the appliance’s condition) is more important than “finishing” a DIY job. If you find yourself looking at a tangle of wires or a tough-to-reach part and thinking, “I don’t feel good about this,” it’s time to call a technician.

By following these safety guidelines, you’ll minimize risks while working on your appliance. Dishwashers are generally safe to work on if disconnected and handled carefully – but a moment’s lapse in caution could lead to injury or damage. Always take your time and put safety first.

When to Call a Professional Appliance Repair Service

While many drainage issues can be fixed with the steps above, there are times when calling in a professional is the smartest move. Bosch appliances are sophisticated machines, and if the problem turns out to be more than a simple clog, an experienced technician will save you time and possibly money by correctly diagnosing and fixing the issue. Here are some signals that it’s time to call a pro:

• The Error Persists After DIY Fixes: You’ve cleaned the filter, checked the hose, cleared the pump, and you still get an E24 error (or the dishwasher still won’t drain). This suggests there’s an underlying problem beyond basic clogs. It could be an electronic issue (like a faulty control board or sensor) or a mechanical failure (like a dead drain pump motor) that requires advanced troubleshooting. Professional technicians have tools to test electrical continuity, run diagnostic modes, and read error logs that can pinpoint the exact cause faster. Rather than endlessly guessing, a tech can accurately identify what needs repair or replacement.

• Recurring Drainage Problems: Maybe you cleared a clog and it worked for a while, but the dishwasher keeps getting clogged frequently or throws E24/E25 codes repeatedly. Chronic issues might indicate something like a partially broken component (e.g., a pump that’s failing and weakly pushing water, or an object lodged deeper in the system that you couldn’t reach). A professional can perform a thorough inspection – for instance, disassembling the sump assembly – to find hard-to-reach obstructions or to replace worn parts that are causing repeat problems.

• You Suspect a Faulty Part: If your gut feeling is that a part needs to be replaced (such as the drain pump, a sensor, or a control module), it’s often best to have a certified appliance repair service handle that. Installing a new pump or electronic board in a dishwasher involves obtaining the correct Bosch part and ensuring it’s installed correctly. A mistake in rewiring or sealing the unit could lead to bigger issues. Professionals not only have access to genuine Bosch replacement parts but also typically guarantee their work – giving you peace of mind that the fix will hold. Keep in mind, Bosch recommends contacting their support or a qualified technician if an error like E24/E25 doesn’t resolve, especially if your unit might still be under warranty (attempting complex repairs yourself could void warranty coverage in some cases).

• Leakage or E15 Error In Tandem: Sometimes a drain issue can turn into a leak issue – for example, if the dishwasher overflowed or if a hose connection started leaking after a blockage. If you see an E15 error code (which means water has leaked into the base of the dishwasher and activated the safety float), you should consider professional service. Dealing with leaks often requires taking the unit out, removing panels, and tracing water lines – tasks a technician can perform efficiently. They will dry out the base, reset the float switch, and fix the source of the leak. Similarly, any other error codes appearing alongside the drain issue (like E23, E25, etc.) can complicate the diagnosis – a pro will know how to address multiple faults at once.

• Lack of Time or Tools: Practical reasons count too. To properly fix some drain issues, you might need tools like torx screwdrivers (Bosch loves torx screws), pliers, multimeter, or even a wet/dry vacuum. If you don’t have the right tools or simply don’t have the time to devote to tinkering with the dishwasher, calling a repair service is a valid choice. What might take you an entire Saturday of frustration could be resolved by an experienced technician in an hour. Your time has value – sometimes the convenient solution is to let an expert handle it.

If you decide to call a professional, make sure to choose a service experienced with Bosch appliances. Bosch designs can be a bit different from other brands, and technicians who regularly work on them will be familiar with the common quirks and fixes. This is where we at Appliance Fix Lab come in. Our technicians specialize in Bosch dishwasher repairs (among other brands) and have extensive experience with issues like the E24 error, E15 leak codes, and more. appliancefixlab.ca.

We operate in Winnipeg, Toronto, and the surrounding areas – so if you’re in these regions, help is just a phone call away. We’ll arrive with the right tools and parts to get your dishwasher back to draining and running like new.

Remember, there’s no shame in seeking professional help. Dishwashers are a key part of your kitchen routine – getting them fixed correctly and promptly is the top priority. A qualified technician can ensure the repair is done safely and effectively, sparing you the potential hazards of DIY and preventing further damage to the appliance.

Final Thoughts: Preventing Drain Problems and Keeping Your Bosch Dishwasher Healthy

By now, you should have a thorough understanding of why your Bosch dishwasher might not be draining and how to tackle an E24 error. We’ve covered everything from simple clogs and kinked hoses to more complex issues like pump failures. Bosch appliances are high-quality machines, but even they require a bit of maintenance and care. As a quick preventative tip: clean your dishwasher’s filter regularly (Bosch recommends monthly) so that big debris never gets a chance to clog the. Also, scrape off large food scraps from plates before loading the dishwasher – it helps avoid blockages down the line.

Most importantly, always prioritize safety and know your limits when attempting repairs. If at any point you feel unsure, remember that professionals are available to help. Appliance Fix Lab is always here as a resource – whether through our educational content or our in-home repair services. Check out our YouTube channel (we post detailed repair videos and tips for all kinds of appliance issues) and consider subscribing if you found this information useful at appliancefixlab.ca. You’ll find real-life repair demonstrations, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting guides that can save you time and hassle. For instance, we’ve documented cases like fixing dishwasher errors and Bosch dishwasher leaks on our channel – seeing these repairs in action can be a huge confidence booster for DIYers.

By subscribing, you’ll join a community of homeowners learning how to care for their appliances, and you’ll get notified whenever we share new insights.

And if you need hands-on assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. Appliance Fix Lab prides itself on fast, friendly service. Our certified technicians are just a call away, and we offer reliable appliance repair in both Winnipeg and Toronto (as well as nearby communities). We understand how disruptive a broken dishwasher can be, so we strive to provide same-day or next-day service whenever possible. Visit our Appliance Fix Lab website to learn more about our Bosch repair services or to book an appointment. Whether it’s that pesky E24 error or any other appliance concern, you can count on our expertise to get things back to normal quickly and safely.

In conclusion, a Bosch dishwasher that won’t drain is a common issue that can often be fixed by the steps we’ve outlined: cleaning out clogs, checking hoses, and so on. Always be careful during any DIY repair, and remember that professional help is available if you need it. By taking care of minor problems and addressing bigger ones promptly, you’ll extend the life of your dishwasher and enjoy spotlessly clean dishes without unexpected interruptions. Thank you for reading, and we hope this guide helps you solve your dishwasher woes!

Stay safe and happy washing! And if you’re in Winnipeg or Toronto and ever find yourself facing an appliance problem you’re not comfortable handling, Appliance Fix Lab is here to assist – your local experts in Bosch appliance repair and maintenance.

Disclaimer: Repairing appliances can involve risk of injury or further damage if done improperly. Always ensure the unit is disconnected from power and water before attempting any repairs. If you have any doubts, seek professional service. Appliance Fix Lab is a professional appliance repair company servicing Winnipeg, Toronto, and surrounding areas, specializing in Bosch and other major appliance brands.

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