Bosch E22 — Drain filter clogged — water not draining through filter system

What E22 means on your Bosch dishwasher

Error code E22 is one of the more common and least severe Bosch dishwasher codes. It indicates that the drain filter system is clogged and water cannot flow freely through it during the drain cycle. Unlike E21 (pump failure) or E24 (drain hose blockage), E22 specifically points to the filter assembly inside the tub — the part you can clean yourself without tools in most cases.

Symptoms

• Small amount of dirty water remains in the bottom of the tub after a cycle
• Dishes have a gritty or filmy residue after washing
• The cycle takes longer than usual, especially during drain phases
• Food particles visible in the filter area at the bottom of the tub

Common causes

• Food debris accumulation — the most common cause, especially if dishes aren’t scraped before loading
• Grease buildup — cooking oils solidify in the micro-filter mesh over time, reducing flow
• Foreign objects — small items like toothpicks, labels, or packaging fragments block the filter
• Damaged filter mesh — a torn micro-filter allows particles through that clog the drain path further down

Troubleshooting steps you can try

1. Remove and clean the filter — twist the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and lift it out. Remove the flat micro-filter beneath it. Rinse both under running water with a soft brush.
2. Soak in warm soapy water — for stubborn grease, soak the filter components in hot water with dish soap for 15 minutes, then scrub gently.
3. Inspect the sump — with the filters removed, check the sump area for any debris. Remove anything you find.
4. Run a hot empty cycle — after cleaning the filters, run the hottest program with no dishes and a cup of white vinegar to flush the drain path.

When to call a technician

E22 is typically a DIY fix that doesn’t require professional service. However, if the code persists after thorough filter cleaning, there may be a blockage deeper in the drain path that you can’t access without disassembly, or the filter housing itself may be cracked. Bosch recommends cleaning the filter at least once a month for optimal performance. Codes may vary by model generation and series.

Need help? Schedule Bosch Dishwasher repair with a certified technician, or contact our team for a free diagnosis consultation.