Bosch dishwasher — Error Code E22
Water is remaining in the sump area, typically caused by a restricted filter.
What it means
The E22 error code on a Bosch dishwasher signals that the control board has identified standing water in the sump basin once the wash cycle has finished. While an E24 code suggests a complete drainage failure, the E22 is specific to the machine's inability to clear the final amount of water. Bosch units track motor resistance and water levels; if the pump engages but sensors still detect liquid, the E22 appears. This is almost always a flow-related issue rather than an electrical fault. A clogged micro-filter is the most common culprit, preventing water from reaching the drain pump impeller. Other potential causes include a partially blocked drain hose, an obstruction within the drain pump impeller, or a failing BLDC drain pump that lacks the necessary torque to finish the cycle.
Likely Causes
- 1 Clogged Micro-FilterGrease, food scraps, or paper labels from jars can plug the fine mesh filter, blocking water from flowing into the drain pump.
- 2 Obstructed Drain Pump ImpellerSmall items like fruit seeds, glass pieces, or plastic bits can slip past the filter and jam the pump impeller, which limits its ability to move water.
- 3 Blocked Drain Hose or Air GapIf your drain hose, garbage disposal knockout, or sink air gap has a partial clog, water cannot exit, leaving residual fluid in the tub.
- 4 Failing Drain PumpThe BLDC drain pump motor may be wearing out, meaning it loses the torque required to evacuate the water before the control board times out the drainage phase.
How to clear / reset
To resolve an E22 error, you must clear the blockage. First, press and hold the Start button for 3 to 5 seconds to initiate a manual drain and reset the controller. If the error persists, cut the power to the unit. Pull out the bottom rack, unscrew the cylindrical micro-filter, and scrub it clean under warm, soapy water. Use a spoon to lift the plastic pump cover in the sump and check the white pump impeller for debris. Confirm the impeller spins with slight magnetic resistance, clear away any obstructions, and reassemble. Once finished, restore power and start a short cycle.
Common replacement parts
When to call a pro
Reach out to a professional if you have already cleaned the filter and inspected the pump impeller, but the E22 error continues to appear. Identifying a faulty drain pump requires using a multimeter to test resistance and checking that the control board is delivering the correct voltage. Removing the unit to swap a drain hose or pump is a complex task that risks damage to the water supply line. A-Fix Service provides a $90 diagnostic fee—which is waived if we perform the repair—and we include a 1-year parts and labor warranty on all Bosch dishwasher repairs.
FAQs
What is the expected cost for a Bosch E22 repair?
Cleaning a filter yourself is free. If a new drain pump is required, professional services generally cost between $150 and $280, covering both parts and labor.
Can I perform the E22 fix myself?
Yes. In about 80% of situations, simply cleaning the primary micro-filter and removing debris from the drain pump impeller will clear the E22 error without needing any specialized tools.
Does the E22 code disappear on its own?
No. The system will hold the error until you drain the remaining water and manually reset the control board by holding the Start button for 3 to 5 seconds.
How long should a typical repair take?
Filter maintenance takes about 5 minutes. If a technician needs to replace the drain pump or address a deep clog in the hose, the job usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes.
Is it okay to continue using the dishwasher while the E22 code is present?
No. Ignoring drainage issues will cause bad odors, poor cleaning results, and potentially lead to a total drain failure (E24 code) or water leaking onto your kitchen floor.
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