The E24 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the appliance has detected a drainage problem — water is not being pumped out of the tub fast enough or at all. This is usually caused by a blockage in the drain hose, filter, or pump, and can often be fixed without calling an engineer.
| Error code | E24 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Drainage fault — the dishwasher cannot clear water from the tub within the expected time |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher will usually stop mid-cycle and may leave standing water inside |
| Time to fix | 15–40 minutes |
| Tools needed | Bowl or towel, screwdriver, small brush, torch (optional) |
What the E24 error means
Bosch dishwashers use a pressure sensor to check that water is draining correctly during the wash cycle. When the E24 code appears, the machine has sensed that drainage is too slow or has failed altogether. This is one of the most common Bosch dishwasher faults and is often a simple blockage rather than a mechanical failure.
Common causes
- Food debris or broken glass blocking the filter at the bottom of the tub
- A kinked, crushed, or blocked drain hose behind or under the machine
- Clogged or faulty drain pump impeller
- Blocked air gap or kitchen sink waste pipe the dishwasher connects to
- Faulty non-return valve allowing dirty water back into the tub
- Incorrect installation height of the drain hose causing poor drainage
How to fix the E24 error
- Check the filter — Remove the lower basket and unscrew the mesh filter at the base of the tub. Rinse it under a tap and clear any trapped food or debris.
- Inspect the drain hose — Pull the dishwasher out from under the counter and check the hose for kinks, twists, or crushing. Straighten or replace if damaged.
- Clear the drain pump — With power disconnected, remove the filter cover and check the pump chamber for debris such as glass shards, labels, or bones.
- Check the sink connection — If the dishwasher drains into a sink air gap or waste pipe, run the sink tap and check it clears quickly; a blocked sink drain will also trigger E24.
- Reset the dishwasher — Turn off power at the wall for two minutes, then restart. Run a short rinse cycle to see if the fault clears.
- Call an engineer — If the error persists after clearing blockages, the drain pump motor itself may need replacing.
FAQ
Can I still use the dishwasher with an E24 error showing?
No, it's best to sort the drainage issue first — running further cycles can leave dirty water sitting in the tub and may damage the pump.
Is E24 dangerous or just an inconvenience?
It's not dangerous, but standing water can cause bad odours and mould if left too long, so it's worth fixing promptly.
Do I need a plumber to fix E24?
Usually not — most cases are cleared by cleaning the filter and drain hose yourself. A plumber is only needed if the household waste pipe itself is blocked.
