The E20 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the machine has detected a drainage fault, usually because water is not being pumped out of the tub fast enough or at all. Clearing a blocked filter or drain hose fixes most cases within a few minutes.
| Error code | E20 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Drain pump circuit fault or restricted water outflow |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher will pause or stop mid-cycle until resolved |
| Time to fix | 10–30 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towel, bowl, screwdriver (optional) |
What the E20 error means
Bosch dishwashers use a small drain pump to push waste water out through the hose into your kitchen plumbing. The E20 code appears when the control board senses that this process is taking longer than expected or has failed entirely. It's the dishwasher's way of protecting itself from running with standing water inside the tub.
In most homes this is a mechanical blockage rather than an electrical fault, so it's worth checking the simple things before assuming the pump itself has failed.
Common causes
- Food debris or broken glass blocking the filter basket at the bottom of the tub
- A kinked, crushed, or blocked drain hose behind or under the machine
- A clogged air gap or kitchen sink waste connection the hose feeds into
- A faulty or jammed drain pump impeller
- A blocked non-return valve preventing water from leaving the tub
- Loose or damaged wiring at the pump connector
How to fix the E20 error
- Turn off and unplug the dishwasher. Cut power at the socket before opening any panels or touching the pump area, for safety.
- Remove and clean the filter. Lift out the filter assembly at the base of the tub, rinse away food debris under the tap, and refit it securely.
- Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages. Pull the machine forward slightly, inspect the hose for bends or clogs, and straighten or clear as needed.
- Inspect the sink air gap or waste connection. If the hose connects near your sink drain, make sure that outlet isn't blocked with grease or debris.
- Manually spin the pump impeller. With power off, check if the small fan-like part inside the pump housing moves freely; remove any trapped debris such as glass shards.
- Restart a rinse cycle. Plug the dishwasher back in and run a short cycle to see if the E20 code clears; if it returns, the pump motor may need professional replacement.
FAQ
Can I keep using the dishwasher with an E20 error showing?
No, it's best to stop the cycle and clear the fault first, otherwise water may sit in the tub and cause bad odours or leaks.
Does E20 always mean the pump is broken?
Not usually — most cases are caused by a blocked filter or hose, which you can clear yourself without replacing any parts.
How do I know if the drain pump itself has failed?
If the filter and hose are clear but you hear no humming sound during the drain phase, the pump motor is likely faulty and needs professional attention.
