Common Problems

Why Is My Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining?

Standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher after every cycle almost always traces back to one of three causes. Here's how to tell which one you're dealing with.

If you open your Bosch dishwasher at the end of a cycle and find an inch of cloudy water sitting at the bottom, you’re dealing with a drainage fault. It’s one of the most common service calls we get, and in most cases it comes down to one of three things: a blocked filter, a blocked or kinked hose, or a failing drain pump.

Start With the Filter

The lower filter assembly — the cylindrical piece that twists out near the bottom of the tub — is the single most common cause of drainage complaints. Food debris, glass shards, and produce stickers collect here over time and eventually restrict water flow enough to trigger an E24 error code. Remove it, rinse it thoroughly under running water, and run a short cycle to test.

Check the Drain Hose

If the filter is clear and water still isn’t draining, the drain hose behind the machine may be kinked, especially if the dishwasher has been moved or reinstalled recently. A hose bent at a sharp angle can restrict flow even when it isn’t visibly clogged.

When It’s the Pump

If cleaning the filter doesn’t resolve it, the drain pump itself may be blocked or failing — this is what typically triggers an E25 error code. Unlike the filter, the pump isn’t something we recommend opening yourself, since it involves disconnecting water lines and electrical connections in a tight space.

What to Do Next

If you’ve cleared the filter and checked the hose and water is still pooling, it’s time to book a diagnostic. Our technicians carry replacement drain pumps for the most common Bosch dishwasher models, so most drainage repairs are completed in a single visit.

Not Confident Doing This Yourself?

A factory-trained technician can diagnose and fix it safely, usually same-day.

Related Error Codes

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