Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining? (E24 Error Code + Triple Filter Guide)

Quick Fix: The E24 error code on Bosch dishwashers means there’s a drainage problem. In 90% of cases, cleaning the triple filter system at the bottom of the tub fixes it. Bosch filters need cleaning more often than most brands due to their fine filtration.

Bosch dishwashers are known for quiet operation and excellent cleaning — but they require regular filter maintenance. The E24 error is Bosch’s way of telling you water isn’t draining properly.

Video Guide

Video: “Bosch Error Code E-24, Drain Problem, Easy FIX” by Tomi Your Trades Guy

Understanding the E24 Error Code

E24 is Bosch’s drainage error code. It appears when:

  • Water can’t drain from the dishwasher
  • Drainage is too slow
  • The drain pump can’t complete its cycle

Other drainage-related codes:

  • E25 — Drain pump blocked or cover not secured
  • E22 — Filter clogged

All these errors point to the same troubleshooting process: start with the filters. For official error code definitions, see Bosch’s dishwasher support page.

Bosch’s Triple Filter System

Bosch uses a sophisticated three-part filter system:

  1. Coarse filter — Catches large debris
  2. Flat fine filter — Catches medium particles
  3. Micro filter (cylindrical) — Catches fine particles for spot-free dishes

Why Bosch filters clog faster: The micro filter is extremely fine — that’s how Bosch achieves such clean results. But this means it needs cleaning more frequently than other brands.

What You’ll Need

  • Towels
  • Soft brush or toothbrush
  • Dish soap
  • Flashlight

Step 1: Remove and Clean All Three Filters

Cutaway diagram showing dishwasher filter assembly location

Accessing the filters:

  1. Open the dishwasher and remove the lower rack
  2. Remove the spray arm (twist counterclockwise and lift)
  3. Locate the cylindrical filter in the center of the tub floor
  4. Turn the filter handle counterclockwise and lift up
  5. Remove the flat metal filter plate underneath

Cleaning each filter:

Cylindrical micro filter:

  • Rinse under warm running water
  • Use a soft brush inside and outside the mesh
  • Hold up to light — you should see through the mesh clearly
  • Soak in warm soapy water if heavily soiled

Flat fine filter:

  • Rinse both sides thoroughly
  • Scrub with a soft brush
  • Check for grease coating — this blocks water flow
  • Use dish soap for stubborn grease

Coarse filter (in the sump):

  • Check the sump area where filters sit
  • Remove any large debris by hand
  • Wipe the area clean

Step 2: Check the Drain Pump Cover

Bosch dishwashers have a drain pump cover that can come loose or get blocked.

Location: Inside the tub, in the sump area where the filters sit.

To check:

  1. With filters removed, look for a round plastic cover
  2. This cover should be secure and flat
  3. Press down to ensure it’s seated properly
  4. If it’s loose, debris may have bypassed the filters and jammed the pump

If you see debris in the pump area:

  1. Use a flashlight to look inside the pump housing
  2. Remove any visible debris (glass, bones, plastic)
  3. Be careful — broken glass is common
  4. The pump impeller should spin freely

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Hose

The drain hose is where water exits to your sink drain or garbage disposal.

Under your sink, check:

  1. The hose isn’t kinked or crushed
  2. The high loop is in place (hose rises before dropping to drain)
  3. The connection isn’t pushed too far into the disposal

Bosch-specific note: Bosch recommends connecting to an air gap if available. If using a high loop, it must reach at least as high as the countertop underside.

Step 4: Check for Hose Blockages

Even if the hose looks fine outside, it can be blocked inside.

Testing the hose:

  1. Disconnect the hose at the disposal/drain end
  2. Have a bucket ready to catch water
  3. Run a drain cycle — water should flow freely
  4. If no water comes out, the blockage is in the hose or pump

Clearing a blocked hose:

  1. Disconnect both ends
  2. Flush with water from a garden hose
  3. Use a long brush or straightened hanger if needed
  4. Replace if heavily blocked or damaged

Step 5: Reset the Bosch Dishwasher

After cleaning and checking components, reset the error:

Method 1 — Button reset:

  1. Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds
  2. The E24 should clear
  3. Run a short cycle to test

Method 2 — Power reset:

  1. Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker
  2. Wait 5 minutes
  3. Restore power
  4. Run a test cycle

Method 3 — Cancel/Reset:

  1. Open the door
  2. Press and hold the Start button until “0:01” appears
  3. Close the door — this runs a drain cycle
  4. Open after the pump stops

Bosch-Specific Issues

E24 Keeps Coming Back

If E24 returns after cleaning:

  • Not cleaning thoroughly enough — Bosch filters need scrubbing, not just rinsing
  • Pump impeller jammed — Small debris like glass or olive pits
  • Drain pump failing — Especially in dishwashers over 7-8 years old
  • Check valve stuck — Allows water to backflow

Bosch Drain Pump Access

The drain pump on Bosch dishwashers is located at the bottom. To access:

  1. Turn off power and water
  2. Remove the kickplate (lower front panel)
  3. The pump is a circular unit with hose connections
  4. You may need to pull the dishwasher out to fully access it

Pump testing: See our drain pump guide for multimeter testing procedures.

Bosch 800 Series and Benchmark

Premium Bosch models have the same filter system but may have additional sensors. If error codes persist after cleaning, the control board may need professional diagnosis.

Bosch Filter Cleaning Schedule

Bosch dishwashers need more frequent filter cleaning than most brands:

Usage LevelCleaning Frequency
Light (1-2 cycles/week)Monthly
Normal (4-5 cycles/week)Every 2 weeks
Heavy (daily)Weekly

Pro tip: Check the filter every time you notice dishes aren’t as clean. In many cases, filtration issues and drainage issues have the same cause — a dirty filter.

When to Call Bosch Service

Contact Bosch support if:

  • E24 persists after thorough filter cleaning
  • Pump makes no sound during drain cycle
  • You find water leaking under the dishwasher
  • E25 code appears repeatedly (pump cover issue)

Bosch support: 1-800-944-2904

Warranty: Bosch dishwashers typically have a 1-year full warranty and additional years on specific components. Check your documentation.

Preventing E24 Errors

  • Clean filters every 1-2 weeks for heavy use
  • Scrape plates before loading
  • Run hot water at the sink before starting
  • Use Bosch-recommended detergent (finish, Cascade)
  • Check spray arms monthly for clogs

FAQ

What does E24 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

E24 means drainage failure — water isn’t leaving the dishwasher properly. The #1 cause is a clogged filter. Remove and thoroughly clean all three parts of the Bosch filter system. If filters are clean, check the drain pump area for debris.

How do I force my Bosch dishwasher to drain?

Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds to cancel the cycle and initiate draining. Alternatively, open the door, hold Start until “0:01” appears, then close the door. The dishwasher will run a drain cycle. If it won’t drain, you’ll need to remove water manually.

Why does my Bosch dishwasher have water at the bottom?

Some water (a shallow puddle) is normal — it keeps the pump seals moist. If there’s an inch or more, the filter is likely clogged. Bosch’s fine filtration system requires more frequent cleaning than other brands. Clean all three filters and check the drain pump cover.

How do I clean the pump on my Bosch dishwasher?

With the filters removed, look into the sump area. You’ll see a round drain pump cover — press down to ensure it’s secure. Look inside for debris blocking the impeller. Use a flashlight and carefully remove any visible objects. The impeller should spin freely when you touch it.

Need more help? See our complete dishwasher not draining guide for additional troubleshooting.