Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E24: How to Fix It

The E24 error code, which may appear as “E:24” on the control panel of Bosch dishwashers, indicates a drainage problem. If you’re experiencing this error code with your appliance, this guide will explain the likely causes and how you can fix it.

Symptoms of the E24 error code

Along with the E24 error code appearing on your dishwasher display, you may also encounter the following symptoms:

• Water pooling at the base of your Bosch dishwasher.
• Unexpected pauses or stops while the dishwasher is running.
• Water draining very slowly or not at all.
• Unusual sounds such as humming, grinding, or gurgling.

Causes of the E24 error code

The E24 error code on Bosch dishwashers is almost always due to a drainage issue. However, several types of drainage problems can trigger the E24 error code, such as:

• The dishwasher filter is clogged
• The drain pump impeller is obstructed
• The drain hose is blocked or kinked
• The garbage disposal hasn’t had its knockout plug removed
• The check valve is faulty

How to fix the E24 error code

Below are various troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the E24 error code on your Bosch dishwasher.

1. Clean the filter

The filter on a Bosch dishwasher typically needs cleaning every 3 to 6 months to prevent it from clogging. However, if you frequently clean heavily soiled dishes, it may need cleaning more often.

To clean the filter, follow these steps:

1. Remove the lower rack and spray arm.
2. Locate the filter at the base of the dishwasher.
3. Rotate the filter’s handle counterclockwise and pull it out.
4. Separate the filter parts and rinse them under warm running water.
5. If needed, gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth to clean.

2. Check the impeller

The impeller is a key component of the drain pump that pushes dirty water out of the dishwasher and into the drain hose during the drainage cycle. Occasionally, food particles or debris can obstruct it.

Fortunately, you don’t need to disassemble your appliance to check it since it’s located near the dishwasher filter. To check the impeller, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the dishwasher.
2. Remove the lower rack, spray arm, and filter.
3. Within the filter housing, you’ll find the pump cover—a small plastic component with a tab that you can pull to remove. In some models, the pump cover may be secured with a screw.
4. Remove the pump cover, and you’ll find the impeller located beneath it.
5. If the impeller is clogged with food particles or debris, such as small pieces of plastic or glass, clean it to remove any obstructions.

3. Inspect the check valve

The check valve is located beneath the pump cover, near the impeller, so it’s logical to check this component next. It’s a one-way valve that allows water to exit the dishwasher but prevents it from flowing back in. If it’s faulty, dirty water may reenter the dishwasher, creating a drainage issue and resulting in the E24 error code.

To inspect the check valve, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the dishwasher.
2. Remove the lower rack, spray arm, filter, and pump cover.
3. Find the check valve. It’s a small rubber flap located under the pump cover.
4. Gently pull it out to remove it.
5. Inspect for damage, such as wear, and if found, purchase a replacement.
6. If the check valve appears dirty or clogged, clean both the valve and its surrounding area before reinstalling it.

4. Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs

The drain hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to your home’s drainage system. If it becomes clogged or kinked, the dishwasher may not drain properly, potentially resulting in the E24 error code.

To check the drain hose on a Bosch dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and turn off its water supply.
2. Grab a bucket or towel to catch any water that spills during the next steps.
3. Disconnect the drain hose where it connects to the sink drain or garbage disposal.
4. Remove the screws securing the kickplate at the bottom front of the dishwasher.
5. Locate where the drain hose connects to the dishwasher. You may need to pull the dishwasher out to access it.
6. Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher.
7. Remove the drain hose and inspect it for clogs or kinks.
8. If clogged, unclog it by running water through it and using a length of wire or a plumbing snake.
9. If kinked, straighten out the hose.
10. If damaged, replace the drain hose with a new one.

5. Check the garbage disposal

If your dishwasher’s drain hose connects to a newly installed garbage disposal, the knockout plug may not have been removed. Alternatively, there could be a blockage at the connection point where the drain hose attaches to the garbage disposal.

Both of these issues can cause drainage problems, resulting in the E24 error code. Follow these steps to check the garbage disposal:

1. Switch off the power to the garbage disposal.
2. Locate where the drain hose connects to the garbage disposal and disconnect it.
3. Check inside the opening of the garbage disposal to see if the knockout plug is still in place or if the opening is clogged.
4. If the knockout plug has not been removed, use a hammer and screwdriver to knock it out carefully.
5. If the opening is clogged, clear it using a narrow brush or pipe cleaner, then flush it with water.

6. Consider hiring a professional

If you’ve followed the troubleshooting steps above and the E24 error code persists, it may be time to call a professional technician to service your appliance. While the causes and solutions outlined above are the most common for the E24 error code, there may be other issues that require professional expertise.