Washing Machine
E22
The E22 error code on an Electrolux washing machine indicates a problem with water not draining properly from the drum — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your machine completing a cycle, but in most cases it’s something you can fix yourself in under an hour.
What does this error mean?
The E22 code tells you that the washing machine’s control board has detected water remaining in the drum after the drain cycle should have completed. The machine expects the drum to be empty by a set point in the programme, and when the water level sensor confirms it isn’t, it throws E22 and halts. This is the machine protecting itself — and your laundry — from overflowing or running a spin cycle full of water.
Est. repair cost
DIY filter clean: £0. Replacement drain pump (DIY part): £20–£45. Professional repair (pump or pressure switch): £80–£140 all-in.
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Switch the machine off at the wall and unplug it — never work on it with power connected. Place old towels on the floor around the machine.
Locate the pump filter access panel at the bottom front of the machine. Place a shallow dish or tray underneath, then slowly unscrew the filter cap to drain residual water. Remove and clean the filter thoroughly under a running tap, clearing all fluff, coins, and debris.
Check the drain hose at the back of the machine. Ensure it isn’t kinked, squashed behind the machine, or pushed too far into the standpipe (it should sit no deeper than 15cm into the standpipe to allow an air break).
Pour a bucket of water down your kitchen or utility room drain to confirm the household standpipe itself isn’t blocked — a slow gurgle suggests a partial blockage you’ll need to clear separately.
Plug the machine back in, select a short programme (e.g. rinse and spin), and watch whether it drains. If it drains successfully and completes, the filter or hose was the culprit.
If the machine still displays E22 after these steps, the drain pump or pressure switch is likely at fault — these are internal electrical components and you should call a qualified engineer at this point.
📞 When to call a professional
If cleaning the filter and checking the hose doesn’t clear the E22 error, the fault almost certainly lies with the drain pump motor or pressure switch — both require internal access and electrical testing that is not DIY-safe. Call a qualified appliance repair engineer and tell them: ‘My Electrolux washing machine is showing error code E22, the filter is clean, the hose is clear, but it still won’t drain.’
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A drain pump replacement by a professional typically costs £80–£140 including parts and labour in the UK. If your machine is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile. If it’s 8 years or older and this isn’t the first fault, weigh that repair cost against a new mid-range Electrolux or equivalent washing machine at £350–£550 — replacement may be the smarter long-term spend.