What Does the E24 Error Mean on a Bosch Dishwasher?
The Bosch E24 error code indicates a drainage fault — the dishwasher has attempted to pump water out of the tub but the drain cycle did not complete within the expected timeframe. The control module monitors the water level during the drain phase, and if water remains in the tub after the drain pump has run for its allotted period, the machine triggers E24 and stops the program.
E24 is distinct from the closely related Bosch E15 error (which indicates water in the base pan, triggering the flood protection system) and the E04 flow sensor error. While E15 is about leak detection, E24 is purely about the machine’s inability to drain the wash water from the tub.
We see E24 frequently across Brisbane on all Bosch dishwasher series — the Serie 2 (SMS models), Serie 4 (SMV/SMS models), Serie 6, and Serie 8 ranges. It is particularly common on older units where the drain filter has not been cleaned regularly, and in households with hard water that accelerates mineral deposit buildup in the drain path.
Common Causes of the Bosch E24 Error
Blocked drain filter assembly. The most frequent cause of E24 by a significant margin. The drain filter at the base of the dishwasher tub is designed to catch food scraps, broken glass, labels from jars, and other debris before it reaches the drain pump. When this filter becomes clogged, water cannot flow from the tub to the pump efficiently. Many Brisbane households run their dishwasher daily without rinsing plates first — this is fine for cleaning performance, but it means the filter needs cleaning weekly rather than monthly.
Kinked or blocked drain hose. The corrugated drain hose runs from the pump at the base of the dishwasher to a connection point under the kitchen sink — usually a spigot on the sink trap or waste disposal unit. If this hose is kinked (commonly caused when the dishwasher is pushed back too hard after maintenance), crushed by items stored under the sink, or internally blocked with accumulated grease, water cannot exit the machine.
Blocked sink-side connection. Where the dishwasher drain hose connects to the kitchen plumbing, blockages are common. Grease, food residue, and soap scum accumulate at the junction between the dishwasher hose and the sink trap. This is especially prevalent in Brisbane homes where cooking oil is washed down the sink, as it solidifies in the cooler drain pipes and gradually restricts the opening.
Jammed drain pump impeller. The drain pump uses a small spinning impeller to push water through the drain hose. Small, hard items — glass fragments from a broken wine glass, olive pits, small bones, toothpick fragments — can jam the impeller, preventing it from spinning. You may hear the pump motor humming (trying to spin) but no water moves.
Failed drain pump motor. After years of continuous use, the drain pump motor can fail electrically — a burnt-out winding or failed capacitor. When the motor fails, the pump is completely silent during the drain phase. This is a parts replacement repair that requires a technician.
High-loop or air-gap issue. Bosch recommends the drain hose be installed with a high loop (the hose rises to the height of the countertop before descending to the sink connection). Without this high loop, dirty water from the sink can siphon back into the dishwasher, confusing the water level sensor and triggering E24. Improperly installed dishwashers in rental properties are particularly susceptible to this issue.
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
Work through these steps in order. You will need towels, a shallow container, and about 25 minutes. Turn the dishwasher off at the wall before starting.
- Remove standing water. If there is water pooled at the bottom of the tub, use a large sponge, towels, or a wet-dry vacuum to remove as much as possible. This gives you clear access to the drain filter and sump.
- Clean the drain filter assembly. Remove the bottom dish rack. At the base of the tub, you will see the filter assembly — a cylindrical mesh filter with a coarse outer filter and a fine inner filter. Turn the cylindrical filter anticlockwise and lift it out. Remove the flat mesh plate beneath it. Wash all filter components under running water with dish soap. Use a soft brush to clear the mesh. Inspect the sump area (the cavity below where the filter sits) for debris — reach in carefully and remove anything you find.
- Check the drain pump impeller. With the filter removed, look into the sump. You may see a small plastic cover over the drain pump. On many Bosch models, this cover can be gently pried off with a flat tool. Check that the impeller (the small fan-like component) spins freely. If something is jamming it, carefully remove the obstruction. Be cautious of glass fragments.
- Inspect the drain hose. Pull the dishwasher forward carefully (disconnect the power cord if accessible). Check the drain hose from the pump to the sink connection for kinks, tight bends, or compression. If you can disconnect the hose from the sink side, do so and flush water through it to check for internal blockages.
- Check the sink-side connection. Where the dishwasher hose connects under the sink, ensure the connection is clear. If it connects to a waste disposal unit, check that the knockout plug was removed during installation — a surprisingly common oversight that completely blocks drainage.
- Reassemble and test. Refit the filter components (ensure the cylindrical filter locks in with a clockwise turn), push the dishwasher back, reconnect power, and run a short rinse cycle. Watch for the drain phase — you should hear the pump run and see water draining. If E24 returns, the drain pump likely needs professional replacement.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a technician if the drain pump is completely silent during the drain cycle (motor failure), if the impeller spins freely and the drain path is clear but E24 persists (possible control board issue or water level sensor fault), or if you hear grinding or scraping noises from the pump (damaged impeller or bearing failure). Also call if the error appeared immediately after a new kitchen installation — improper drain hose routing is best corrected by someone who can verify the installation meets Bosch’s specifications.
What the Repair Typically Involves
When we attend a Bosch E24 fault, we systematically check the entire drain path — filter, sump, pump, hose, and sink connection. We test the drain pump electrically, measuring motor resistance and current draw. If the pump has failed, we replace the complete pump assembly, which on most Bosch dishwashers is accessed from underneath by laying the unit on its back or side.
Our standard callout is $219, which includes the first 30 minutes of labour onsite. Additional time is charged at $45 per 15-minute block. Seniors, pensioners, and students receive a $20 discount. All parts supplied and fitted carry a 12-month warranty. All prices are estimates only.
How Always Prompt Repairs Can Help
Bosch is one of the most popular dishwasher brands in Brisbane, and E24 is the error code we see most often on Bosch units. Our technicians are experienced with every Bosch dishwasher series and carry commonly required parts — including drain pumps, filters, and seals — on every van. We are authorised warranty agents for Bosch appliances in Brisbane.
We cover all of Greater Brisbane from our Underwood workshop — CBD, southside, northside to Caboolture, east to Cleveland, west to Ipswich, and south to the Northern Gold Coast. Six vans on the road means same-day or next-day service in most cases.
Book your Bosch dishwasher repair online at alwayspromptrepairs.com.au/book or call us on (07) 3062 2377.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does E24 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?
E24 is a drainage error. The dishwasher attempted to pump out the wash water but the drain cycle did not complete successfully. The most common cause is a blocked drain filter or kinked drain hose — both of which you can check and fix yourself in most cases.
Is E24 the same as E25 on a Bosch dishwasher?
They are related but different. E24 indicates a general drainage fault — the pump ran but water did not clear. E25 specifically indicates that the drain pump cover is not seated correctly or is obstructed. Both involve the drain system but E25 specifically points to the pump cover area, while E24 can be caused by blockages anywhere in the drain path.
How much does it cost to fix a Bosch E24 error in Brisbane?
Our callout is $219 including the first 30 minutes of onsite labour. If the drain pump needs replacement, parts typically cost between $150 and $280 depending on the specific Bosch model. Most E24 repairs are completed in a single visit. Seniors, pensioners, and students receive a $20 discount. All prices are estimates only.
Can I run my Bosch dishwasher with E24 showing?
No. The dishwasher will not start a new wash cycle while E24 is active. Resolve the drainage issue first. If there is standing water in the base, manually remove it before troubleshooting to prevent overflow when you open the filter assembly.