Dishwasher
E24
The E24 error code on a Siemens dishwasher means the machine cannot drain water properly — it’s one of the most common dishwasher faults and, in most cases, you can fix it yourself in under 30 minutes.
What does this error mean?
E24 is a drainage fault code: your Siemens dishwasher has tried to pump out water but detected that it hasn’t cleared within the expected time. The control board monitors water level at the end of a cycle, and if standing water remains, it throws E24 and stops the programme. This is a protective measure to prevent flooding and motor damage.
Est. repair cost
£0 DIY (filter/hose fix) | £15–£35 DIY drain pump part | £80–£150 professional repair
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine first: switch it off at the mains, wait 60 seconds, then restart. If E24 clears, the fault was a one-off glitch.
Clean the filter: remove the lower basket, unscrew the cylindrical filter, lift out the mesh plate beneath it, and rinse both under a running tap. Refit and run a short cycle.
Check the drain hose at the back: pull the machine forward slightly and inspect the hose for kinks or tight bends. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose is looped at least 40cm above floor level before connecting to the waste pipe.
Clear the sump and pump area: with the machine empty and switched off, remove the filter assembly and use a torch to look into the sump cavity. Use long-nose pliers or tweezers to remove any visible debris (glass, bones, or labels) from around the pump impeller.
Check the kitchen sink waste: run your sink — if it drains slowly, clear the under-sink U-bend, as a partially blocked waste pipe will prevent your dishwasher draining too.
If the pump runs but water won’t drain (you can hear the motor humming with no result), the drain pump impeller may be seized or the pump itself faulty — this requires a replacement pump, which is a DIY-possible but fiddly repair requiring you to lay the machine on its side to access the pump housing.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a qualified appliance engineer if the drain pump motor makes no sound at all during the drain cycle, or if you’ve cleared all blockages and the fault persists — this points to a failed pump, faulty wiring, or a control board issue. When you call, tell the engineer: ‘My Siemens dishwasher is showing E24, I’ve cleaned the filter and checked the hose, and the pump appears not to be running.’
⚖️ 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; if it’s over 8–10 years old and the pump has failed, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range dishwasher at £350–£550. For a straightforward blocked filter or hose, you’re looking at £0 in parts — just your time.