The Bosch E24 error code may be displayed either at the beginning or towards the end of the cycle, and it indicates that the dishwasher is unable to drain water due to a blockage in the appliance. The error is mainly caused by a blockage in the filter, but can also be caused by blockages in other parts of the dishwasher such as the drain hose, drain pump, or by improper installation of the dishwasher. If this error is displayed, you will notice that the water drains very slowly or collects at the bottom of your dishwasher.This easy-to-follow guide will show you how to find and clear the blockage, and how to inspect various parts of your dishwasher that may be causing the drainage problems.
What Is the Most Likely Cause of The E24 Error for New Bosch Dishwasher Owners?
If you are the proud new owner of a Bosch dishwasher, it may be frustrating to see this error code displayed. However, there’s no need to panic, this is a common issue that you can resolve quickly.For newly installed dishwashers, here are the most common causes of the E24 error:
- Incorrect high loop installation: It is recommended to install the drain hose with a high loop to prevent water from flowing back from the sink into the dishwasher. If the drain hose is not is looped at the correct height above the dishwasher's base level during installation, water may flow backwards, resulting in drainage issues.
- Improper air gap installation: The air gap is a device that connects to the dishwasher's drain hose and the sink's drain or garbage disposal to prevent water from flowing back into the dishwasher. Inspect these connection points to ensure they are properly aligned and securely fitted.
- Not removing the knockout plug: The knockout plug is a piece of plastic or metal found at the connection point between the drain hose and garbage disposal. If you are connecting your dishwasher to a garbage disposal for the first time, this plug needs to be removed (knocked out) to allow water to drain from the dishwasher into the disposal. If the plug is not removed, the dishwasher won't drain, and the E24 error code will be displayed.
What are the Most Common Causes of the Bosch E24 Error?
Use the list below to inspect the parts of your dishwasher that are most likely to be the reason why your dishwasher is not draining and displaying the E24 error code. It's important to follow the list in the order displayed to make the troubleshooting process as efficient as possible. Before beginning any work on your Bosch dishwasher, first turn off the appliance, and unplug it from the power outlet to prevent electrical shock. Lastly, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Dirty Filter
It is common for food particles and debris to build up in the filter. At first, a clogged filter will result in unpleasant odors and poorly cleaned dishes by recirculating dirty water in the dishwasher. Over time, a consistently blocked filter will restrict the flow of water and prevent drainage.
How to Clear a Blockage in the Filter
- The filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. To access it, open the dishwasher door and remove the lower rack and spray arm.
- Carefully lift/twist the filter out and inspect it for food debris and foreign objects.
- If the filter is dirty, you can either run it under warm water to rinse it off or use a soft brush to gently scrub it. Do not use any harsh cleaners or materials that may damage the filter.
- Before returning the filter to the appliance, inspect the filter mounting area and remove any debris that may be present.
- Press or twist the filter in to place and reattach the lower rack and spray arm.
- If your dishwasher is still experiencing drainage issues, you should inspect the drain hose next.
Blocked/Kinked Drain Hose
The drain hose transports wastewater out of the dishwasher to the sink's drain or garbage disposal. If the hose is kinked, bent, or clogged with debris or buildup, it will be unable to carry out its function.
How to Clear a Blockage in the Drain Hose
- To access the drain hose, you will need to first remove the dishwasher’s bottom front panel, also known as the kick plate. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold it in place.
- Locate the drain hose and inspect the high loop to ensure that it is not kinked or bent. Adjust the hose as needed.
- Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher by using a pair of pliers to remove the clamp that holds it in place (place a bucket or towel beneath the hose connection as you do this, as it is common for some water to spill out).
- Inspect the hose for signs of blockage and if present, use a long, flexible brush or similar tool to push the blockage out.
- Alternatively, you can run water through the hose to help push out the blockage.
- Once the hose is clear, you can reconnect it to the dishwasher. Be sure to tighten the clamp appropriately to prevent leaks.
- Place the kick plate back in its position and screw it in securely.
- You can test the dishwasher by plugging it back in, turning on the water supply, and running a short cycle to ensure that it drains properly.
Blocked Drain Pump
The drain pump can become clogged with food debris and objects flowing through the hoses, typically at the inlet/outlet points. A blockage in the drain pump is commonly accompanied by humming and grinding noises.
It is important to note that a damaged/faulty pump will also cause drainage problems in your dishwasher, however, this will typically be accompanied by an E25 error. The pump will need to be replaced entirely to restore the appliance.
How to Clear a Blockage in the Drain Pump
- To access the drain pump, follow the same method for accessing the drain hose by following the steps above.
- Locate the drain pump, usually towards the front of the appliance, and detach the hose(s) from the pump. It is normal for some water to spill out at this point.
- Gently turn the impeller on the pump. If it does not turn freely, it may either be damaged or clogged.
- Inspect the inlet and outlet points on the pump for food particles, or other foreign objects that may be causing an obstruction.
- Clear any blockages present. Use a pair of needle nose pliers if the items are hard to reach.
- Once you have removed the obstructions, you can reattach the hoses and reassemble the dishwasher.
Loose Pump Cover
The pump cover (or impeller cover) allows water to flow through the drain pump. If the cover is loose or misaligned it will prevent the impeller from spinning freely and pushing water out of the dishwasher. It will also increase the likelihood of blockages in the drain pump by allow debris and foreign objects to enter the pump.
How to Check the Pump Cover
- Depending on your dishwasher model, you may be able to access the drain pump from inside the dishwasher tub, by removing the lower rack, spray arm, and filter.
- If you cannot access the pump cover from inside the tub, you will need to remove the kick plate at front of the dishwasher to access it.
- Inspect the pump cover for cracks or breaks that may be preventing the cover from sealing properly. If it is damaged it will need to be replaced, otherwise move to the next step.
- Gently tug the cover to check that it does not move freely. If cover appears to be loose, carefully press it in place or twist it until it is secure.
Blocked Air Gap
The air gap prevents backflow through the drain hose during drainage. If the air gap becomes clogged with debris and foreign objects, water will flow backwards into the dishwasher through the drain hose, instead of flowing out. A blocked air gap will also cause water to overflow from the air gap onto kitchen the countertop.
How to Clear a Blockage in the Air Gap
- Pull/twist off the air gap cap. Some air gaps have a second plastic cap underneath which will need to be removed as well.
- Look inside the air gap for visible obstructions and remove any debris that may be present.
- Use a small brush or cloth to clean the inside of the air gap.
- Reattach the air gap cap(s) and run a short cycle to test the dishwasher.
If you noticed that your dishwasher could use some new parts, you can use our model number search feature to easily find the right replacement part from our list of genuine OEM Bosch Dishwasher Parts. You can make every cycle a sparkling success.
How to Address the Bosch E24 Error if the Steps Above Are Not Working
Following the steps above is the best way to resolve the E24 error code and restore your dishwasher’s draining function. However, it is possible that the code may still be present after following the above instructions. Here’s what to do next:
- Reset the dishwasher: The persistent error may be caused by a glitch in the control panel. To reset the dishwasher and clear the code, you should check your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model type. However, the most common method is to press and hold the start button or the drain and cancel buttons for 3 – 5 seconds.
- Use a popular bypass hack: If resetting the dishwasher does not resolve the error code, a popular trick used by some Bosch dishwasher owners is to start a cycle, wait 1-2 minutes, and then quickly open and close the door.
- Call a professional: If you are still facing difficulties with your dishwasher, it is worthwhile to consider seeking assistance from a professional appliance repair technician. They will likely be able to diagnose the problem for you and resolve it in no time.
How to Maintain Your Bosch Dishwasher and Prevent Future Errors
It is important to periodically check and clean your dishwasher to extend its longevity and keep it running efficiently. Poor drainage is not only frustrating, it can also become a health concern due to the growth of mold and bacteria in stagnant water. So, follow these steps to keep your dishwasher running efficiently:
- Regularly clean and replace the filter.
- Rinse dishes to remove large food particles before loading.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as it can prevent proper drainage.
- Use the correct amount and type of detergent to prevent excess suds.
- Run a cleaning cycle once a month.
Encountering the Bosch dishwasher E24 error code may seem daunting at first, but if you follow the troubleshooting steps in this guide, you can tackle this issue with confidence and enjoy clean, hassle-free dishwashing once again.
