Washing Machine
E24
The E24 error code on an AEG washing machine signals a drainage fault — specifically that the machine cannot drain water within the expected time. It’s a common issue, often fixable at home without a call-out charge.
What does this error mean?
E24 tells you the AEG washing machine’s control board has detected that water isn’t draining away fast enough, or at all. The machine monitors how long draining takes, and if it exceeds a set threshold, it throws E24 and halts the cycle to prevent flooding or damage. This is a safety cut-out, not a fault with the drum or motor.
Est. repair cost
£0 DIY (filter clean) · £15–£35 DIY drain pump part · £80–£130 professional repair
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off and unplug the machine before doing anything — then place towels and a shallow tray under the pump filter access panel at the bottom front of the machine.
Unscrew the pump filter cap slowly (it’s usually a large twist-off cap), let the residual water drain into your tray, then remove and clean the filter thoroughly under the tap — remove all fluff, grit, and any foreign objects like coins or buttons.
While the filter is out, reach into the filter housing and manually turn the pump impeller (the small plastic fan) — it should spin freely. If it’s stiff or won’t move, the pump is likely jammed or seized.
Check the drain hose at the back of the machine: confirm it isn’t kinked, isn’t pushed more than 15cm into the standpipe, and that the standpipe or sink drain it empties into isn’t blocked itself.
Refit the filter firmly, plug the machine back in, and run a short spin-only cycle to test whether the E24 clears.
If the error returns after cleaning the filter and checking the hose, the drain pump likely needs replacing — this is a straightforward part swap for a confident DIYer, but involves removing the machine’s front or back panel.
📞 When to call a professional
If cleaning the filter and checking the hose doesn’t clear the E24, and the pump impeller feels stiff or the pump hums without draining, call a washing machine engineer. Tell them: ‘My AEG is showing E24 — I’ve cleaned the pump filter and checked the drain hose, but I suspect the drain pump needs replacing.’ If the error is accompanied by burning smells or visible water under the machine, stop using it immediately and call a professional.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A drain pump replacement by a local appliance engineer typically costs £80–£130 all-in for parts and labour in the UK. If your AEG is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile. Over 8 years old with other faults developing, weigh repair cost against a new mid-range AEG or equivalent at £400–£600 — if repair exceeds 50% of replacement cost, replacement is the better call.