Seeing error code E24 on your Bosch dishwasher? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and the fix is often simple. Error E24 typically points to a drainage issue, meaning your dishwasher can’t pump out water properly. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes the E24 code and walk you through step-by-step solutions to get your dishwasher back to peak performance.
Understanding error code E24
So what exactly is the Bosch dishwasher code E24? This fault code indicates a drainage issue: something is preventing water from leaving the machine as it should. You might notice a few red flags before the error appears:
- Water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle.
- A cycle that starts but then suddenly stops.
- A humming noise but no draining action.
Essentially, the Bosch dishwasher E24 message is your machine’s way of saying, “I can’t drain properly!” Fortunately, it’s often a problem you can troubleshoot and resolve yourself without needing to call in a technician. Proper drainage is crucial to avoid water damage and keep your dishwasher running efficiently.
Common causes of E24 error
Before we jump into fixes, it helps to understand what might be causing this hiccup in your appliance. Here are the usual suspects behind the Bosch E24 fault code:
- Clogged or blocked drain filter: Food particles, grease, and debris can block the filter, preventing water from draining.
- Kinked or obstructed drain hose: Sometimes the hose gets bent or clogged restricting water flow.
- Improper installation of the drain hose: If the hose isn’t positioned properly, water can backflow and trigger the Bosch dishwasher E24 fault.
- Blocked garbage disposal or air gap: If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal or has an air gap, any clog here can cause drainage problems.
- Faulty drain pump: The pump that pushes water out could be malfunctioning or blocked.
Getting the Bosch dishwasher E15 error?
Learn about what the E15 error code means, what typically causes it, how to fix it in this step-by-step troubleshooting guide.
Step-by-step troubleshooting guide
Identifying what’s actually causing the E24 error on your dishwasher is fairly simple, something you can DIY. Follow this step-by-step troubleshooting guide and check the different parts of your dishwasher’s drainage system.
Remember: always unplug your dishwasher before handling any electronic parts to prevent electric shock. This guide covers most Bosch models, but check your model’s manual for any special directions.
Step 1: Check and clean the drain filter
The filter is your dishwasher’s first line of defence against food particles and debris. If it gets clogged, water can’t drain properly, a fast track to the E24 on a Bosch dishwasher.
What to do:
- Remove the bottom rack of your dishwasher.
- Twist and lift out the cylindrical filter located at the bottom centre.
- Rinse the filter under warm running water. Use a soft brush to scrub away any gunk.
- Check the area around the filter for debris and wipe clean.
- Reinsert the filter securely.
Step 2: Inspect the drain hose
The drain hose carries wastewater out of your dishwasher. A kinked, crushed, or clogged hose can cause serious draining issues. If water can’t escape through the hose, the dishwasher will give you the E24 treatment every time.
What to do:
- Unplug your dishwasher or switch off the breaker.
- Pull out the dishwasher carefully to access the back (yes, it might require a bit of elbow grease).
- Examine the drain hose for kinks, bends, or pinches.
- Detach the hose (have your bucket ready—some water may spill out).
- Flush the hose with warm water or run a straightened wire hanger through it to clear any blockages.
Step 3: Verify proper installation
Sometimes the error isn’t due to a blockage but how the drain hose is installed. Improper hose setup is a sneaky cause of the E24 fault code—especially in new installations or after a kitchen reno. If it’s not looped or angled correctly, water can flow the wrong way.
What to look for:
- The drain hose should be installed with a high loop or connected to an air gap to prevent backflow.
- The high loop should be at least 20 inches (50 cm) above the floor.
Step 4: Examine the garbage disposal and air gap
A connected garbage disposal or air gap can also affect drainage. If either is blocked or installed incorrectly, your dishwasher might interpret it as a drainage failure.
What to do:
- If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, make sure it’s not clogged. Run it with water for a minute.
- Check that the knockout plug has been removed from the disposal inlet (especially important if the dishwasher is newly installed).
- If you have an air gap (that little cap near your sink faucet), remove the cover and check for blockages. Clean it out if needed.
Step 5: Assess the drain pump
If you’ve ruled everything else out, it’s time to check the drain pump. This component pushes water out during the drain cycle, and if it’s jammed or failing, it can cause the Bosch dishwasher E24 fault code to appear. Fixing a faulty pump is complicated, so ask for help from a professional to ensure the repair is done safely and effectively.
What to do:
- Disconnect power to the unit.
- Access the bottom panel of the dishwasher (usually behind a kick plate).
- Look for the drain pump—it’s typically located near the front.
- Check for debris or anything that might be jamming the impeller, the rotating part that helps move fluid through the pump.
- If the pump seems dead (no noise during drain cycles), it may need replacing.
Don’t forget to reset your dishwasher
Once you’ve tackled the issue and your dishwasher is draining properly again, don’t forget to reset the appliance to clear the E24 message. The reset process varies by model, but often involves holding the Start button for 3–5 seconds. Check your manual for exact instructions.
Preventive maintenance tips
Let’s keep that Bosch dishwasher E24 message from coming back like a bad ex. A little maintenance goes a long way.
- Clean the filter regularly: Aim to rinse it out weekly or at least every few cycles if you’re a heavy user.
- Scrape off food—but don’t pre-wash: Contrary to popular belief, Bosch dishwashers like a bit of grime to activate their sensors, but you should still scrape large bits off to prevent clogs.
- Use proper detergent: Use only dishwasher-approved detergents (no dish soap!) and go easy on the rinse aid if your water is soft.
- Check the drain hose once in a while: Make it part of your seasonal home maintenance routine, like checking smoke alarms or swapping furnace filters.
When to seek professional help
If you’ve tried all the above and your Bosch is still flashing that E24 code like a neon sign, it might be time to call in the experts. Here are signs it’s time to get help:
- You hear strange grinding or buzzing noises during the drain cycle: This could indicate a serious mechanical issue with the drain pump or motor. A technician can safely disassemble the pump and diagnose what’s causing the noise without causing further damage.
- The dishwasher fills with water but doesn’t drain at all. It could be a sign of a complete pump failure or a deeper electrical fault in the control board.
- You’ve replaced the drain pump and the error persists. There may be an issue with the wiring, control module, or internal sensors that is best left to someone trained in Bosch appliance repair.
- You’re not comfortable taking apart electrical components. Many of the deeper fixes for the E24 fault code require getting under the unit, removing panels, and handling wiring and delicate parts.
Need a hand? You can reach Bosch Canada customer support at 1-800-944-2904 or visit Bosch service page.
Keep your dishwasher drama-free
While the Bosch dishwasher E24 error might look serious at first glance, it’s often just a drainage hiccup that you can fix with a bit of time and a few basic tools. Whether it’s a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, or an installation issue, troubleshooting should take about 20 to 30 minutes in most cases. And if the problem sticks around despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to call a pro.
Stay on top of regular maintenance and take some time cleaning filters and checking hoses. It can prevent the Bosch dishwasher E24 fault from showing up again.
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This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
