The E25 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the drain pump or drain path has a fault, usually caused by a blockage, kinked hose, or failing pump motor. In most cases you can clear this yourself by checking the filter, drain hose, and pump for debris before calling an engineer.
| Error code | E25 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Drainage fault — water is not being pumped out of the machine within the expected time |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher will usually stop mid-cycle and may leave standing water |
| Time to fix | 15–40 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towels, a small bowl or cup, gloves, a torch (optional) |
What the E25 error means
E25 is Bosch's way of flagging that the drain system isn't working as it should. The dishwasher tries to pump waste water out at the end of a wash cycle, and if that water doesn't clear within a set time, the control board logs E25 and halts the program to prevent damage. It's one of the more common Bosch dishwasher faults and is often linked to something physical blocking the water flow rather than an electrical failure.
This is different from motor or heating errors — the pump itself is often fine, but something is stopping water from reaching or passing through it.
Common causes
- Food debris, glass, or labels blocking the filter or sump area
- A kinked, crushed, or blocked drain hose
- The kitchen sink air gap or garbage disposal connection clogged
- A faulty or jammed drain pump impeller
- The non-return (check) valve stuck closed
- Incorrect installation causing the hose to sit too high or too low
How to fix the E25 error
- Cancel the cycle and remove standing water: Turn off the dishwasher, open the door, and bail out any pooled water at the bottom using a cup or bowl and towels.
- Clean the filter assembly: Twist and lift out the mesh filter at the base of the tub, rinse it under a tap, and clear any trapped food or debris.
- Check the drain hose: Pull the dishwasher out slightly and inspect the hose for kinks, tight bends, or blockages where it connects to the sink or waste disposal unit.
- Inspect the sump and pump area: With the filter removed, look into the sump for glass shards, labels, or small items and remove anything visible by hand.
- Check the sink connection: If your dishwasher drains via an air gap or garbage disposal, make sure that unit isn't blocked, since this can back up straight into the dishwasher.
- Restart and test: Run a short rinse cycle to confirm the water drains fully and the E25 code doesn't return; if it does, the pump motor likely needs professional inspection.
If you've cleared the filter and hose but the fault keeps coming back, it's worth having a technician check the pump itself — the same troubleshooting mindset applies across Bosch appliances, whether it's a Bosch Drill Won'T Start issue or a dishwasher pump fault, the goal is always to rule out simple blockages and connection problems before assuming a motor failure.
FAQ
Can I keep using the dishwasher with an E25 error?
No. Running another cycle before clearing the drain issue can cause water to overflow or damage the pump motor, so it's best to fix the blockage first.
Do I need a plumber to fix E25?
Usually not. Most E25 faults are caused by blockages in the filter, hose, or sink connection, which homeowners can clear themselves in under an hour.
Why does E25 keep coming back after I clean the filter?
If the code returns, the problem is likely further down the drain path — check the hose for kinks and the sink air gap, and if those are clear, the pump motor may be failing.
