Bosch E22 Error Code — What It Means
The E22 error code on a Bosch dishwasher indicates that water is not draining properly because something is blocking the filter or sump area. Bosch designed this code to alert you when the drain system is restricted, usually by food particles, grease, labels, seeds, or other debris that has collected in the filter assembly or pump inlet. The machine stops mid-cycle to prevent water from overflowing or damaging internal components. In most cases, the blockage is mechanical, not electrical, and you can clear it yourself by accessing the filter and pump area at the bottom of the tub.
Common Causes
- Clogged filter assembly Food residue, grease, labels, seeds, or small debris has built up in the coarse or fine filter screens and is preventing water from reaching the pump.
- Debris in the drain pump or impeller Glass fragments, hard particles, or sludge have entered the pump housing and are jamming the impeller so it cannot move water out of the tub.
- Kinked or blocked drain hose The drain hose is bent, crushed, or has internal blockage that restricts water flow from the pump to the sink drain or disposal.
- Improperly seated filter The filter assembly was not locked in place correctly after cleaning, leaving a gap that allows debris into the sump or pump inlet.
- Failed drain pump The pump motor has stopped working electrically even though the impeller and drain path are clear, so it cannot expel water.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Power off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker or unplug it to eliminate shock risk before opening the sump or pump area.
- Remove the lower dish rack and unscrew the filter assembly by turning the coarse filter cap counterclockwise, then lift out both the coarse and fine filter screens.
- Rinse the filters under warm running water and scrub away grease, food particles, and any stuck-on debris with a soft brush, then inspect the sump basin under the filter for seeds, labels, glass, or sludge and remove everything you find.
- Check the drain pump and impeller by removing the pump cover (usually a few screws or clips) and look for obstructions around the impeller blades, using needle-nose pliers to pull out any debris carefully without forcing or bending the blades.
- Inspect the drain hose along its entire length from the pump outlet to the sink or disposal connection for kinks, sharp bends, crushing, or internal blockage, and straighten or replace the hose if needed.
- Reinstall the filter assembly by placing the fine filter into the sump, setting the coarse filter on top, and turning the cap clockwise until it locks firmly in place.
- Restore power and run a short drain or rinse cycle to confirm the tub empties completely and the E22 code clears, and if the error persists after the drain path is clean, test the drain pump electrically or call a technician to replace it.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Bosch dishwasher filter assembly | Amazon | Coarse and fine filter set for your model if the screens are damaged or worn. |
| Bosch dishwasher drain pump | Amazon | Sump pump assembly if the motor has failed or the impeller housing is cracked. |
| Dishwasher drain hose | Amazon | Replacement hose if the original is kinked, crushed, or internally restricted. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a professional if the E22 code returns after you have cleaned the filter, checked the sump and impeller for debris, and confirmed the drain hose is clear. A technician can test the drain pump motor electrically, measure resistance and voltage to confirm it is operating within spec, and replace the pump assembly if it has failed. Also call for help if you find a cracked sump housing, damaged pump cover, or other broken components that require disassembly of the lower spray arm assembly or tub base, or if you are uncomfortable working with water and electrical connections inside the machine.