Dishwasher
E22
The E22 error code on a Siemens dishwasher indicates a blocked or clogged filter, preventing the machine from draining or circulating water properly. It’s one of the most common Siemens fault codes — and in most cases, you can fix it yourself in under 30 minutes.
What does this error mean?
E22 tells you that the dishwasher’s sensor has detected restricted water flow, almost always caused by a build-up of debris in the filter system at the bottom of the appliance. The machine is protecting itself from running with blocked water circulation, which could damage the pump or heating element. This is not a critical electronic fault — it’s your dishwasher asking to be cleaned.
Est. repair cost
DIY fix (cleaning): £0–£10 for cleaning products. Professional repair (pump/sensor replacement): £80–£150 parts and labour.
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Switch off the dishwasher and unplug it from the mains. Remove the lower basket to access the base of the tub.
Locate the filter assembly (a round twist-lock cover in the tub floor). Turn it anti-clockwise, lift it out, and separate the mesh filter from the cylindrical filter. Rinse both thoroughly under hot running water, using a soft brush to remove grease and food debris. Soak in warm soapy water if heavily soiled.
While the filters are out, check the sump area (the recess the filters sit in) for any glass fragments, bones, or debris that could be blocking the drain pump inlet. Remove anything you find by hand.
Check the drain hose (usually accessible behind or under the machine) for kinks or blockages. If the hose connects to the sink waste or a standpipe, confirm the outlet isn’t blocked.
Reassemble the clean filters, making sure they click and lock firmly back into place — a loose filter is a common cause of recurring E22 faults.
Run a hot empty cycle (60°C or above) with a dishwasher cleaner tablet or a cup of white vinegar in the base. If E22 clears, the fix is complete. If the code returns, the drain pump impeller may be jammed or the pressure sensor faulty — at this point, call an engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If E22 returns after thoroughly cleaning the filters and drain hose, the drain pump itself is likely faulty — either jammed, worn, or failed — and will need to be replaced by an appliance engineer. Tell them you have a persistent E22 code and that the filters are clean, so they arrive knowing it’s likely a pump or pressure sensor issue. Do not attempt to access or disassemble the pump yourself, as it involves handling internal electrical components.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional drain pump replacement on a Siemens dishwasher typically costs £80–£150 including parts and labour in the UK. If your machine is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it; Siemens build quality means a well-maintained machine can last 10–15 years. If the dishwasher is over 8–10 years old and requires a pump replacement, it’s worth comparing repair cost against a new mid-range dishwasher (£350–£600), especially if other components are ageing.