Dishwasher
E22
The E22 error code on a Bosch dishwasher means the filter system is blocked, preventing the machine from draining or circulating water properly. It’s one of the most common Bosch errors and, in most cases, a straightforward DIY fix.
What does this error mean?
E22 tells you that your Bosch dishwasher has detected restricted water flow caused by a clogged filter or sump area. The machine’s sensors can’t confirm water is moving as it should, so it stops the cycle to prevent damage. Think of it as your dishwasher telling you it’s choking on debris and needs a clean-out.
Est. repair cost
£0 DIY (cleaning) | £15–£35 for a replacement drain pump part if self-fitting | £80–£150 for a professional repair including labour
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Turn off and unplug the dishwasher at the wall socket before doing anything inside the machine.
Remove the bottom rack and locate the cylindrical filter in the centre of the tub floor. Twist it anti-clockwise and lift it out along with the flat mesh filter beneath it.
Rinse both filter parts under hot running water, scrubbing with an old toothbrush to remove grease and food debris. Soak in warm soapy water for 10 minutes if heavily gunked up.
While the filter is out, use a cloth or sponge to clear any debris from the sump recess (the pit the filter sits in). Check for any small objects like glass or label fragments.
Inspect the spray arms — pull them off (they usually unclip or unscrew) and poke a cocktail stick through any blocked holes, then rinse under the tap.
Reassemble everything, run a short hot cycle empty (add a dishwasher cleaner tablet if you have one), and check whether the E22 code clears. If it persists after cleaning, check the drain hose at the back for kinks or blockages.
📞 When to call a professional
If the E22 code returns after a thorough filter and sump clean, the issue is likely a faulty drain pump, a failed circulation pump, or a blocked drain hose that needs disconnecting to clear — at that point, call a Bosch-approved appliance engineer. Tell them the error code is E22, that you’ve already cleaned the filter and sump, and that it may be a pump or drainage issue. Do not attempt to dismantle the pump housing yourself, as this involves electrical components.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E22 caused by a faulty drain pump typically costs £80–£150 including parts and labour in the UK. If your Bosch dishwasher is under 7 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile — Bosch machines are built to last 10–15 years. If it’s over 10 years old and the pump has failed, a new mid-range Bosch dishwasher (£400–£600) may be a smarter long-term investment.