How to Fix Bosch Dishwasher e22 Error Code

A Bosch dishwasher e22 error code means that there is still water in the dishwasher basin at the end of the cycle, which indicates a drainage problem. Fortunately, there is usually an easy fix for this issue.

In most cases, the dishwasher is unable to drain because the dishwasher filter is clogged. Therefore, to resolve the Bosch dishwasher e22 error code, you will need to remove and clean the dishwasher filter.

This guide applies to most Bosch dishwasher models, such as:

SHE43P25UC/64

SHE45M05UC/50

SHE45M06UC/50

SHE4AP06UC/06

SHE55M12UC/64

SHE55M15UC/64

SHE55M16UC/64

SHE58C05UC/48

SHI4302

SHI4306

SHI6802

SHI6805

SHI6806

SHU9915UC/11

SHX43C05UC/46

SHX45M05UC/50

How to access your filter

With most Bosch dishwashers, the filter can be removed simply by turning it counterclockwise and lifting it out of the dishwasher. If you cannot remove the dishwasher’s filter, consult your owner’s manual for filter removal instructions.

If the filter cannot be removed, check the dishwasher basin for debris that is stopping the dishwasher from draining. If the e22 error is not resolved, check the drain hose and drain pump for a drainage issue as described below. If there is not a drainage issue causing the e22 error code, a control board fault is likely causing the dishwasher to think there is an issue when there is not.

What does the filter look like?

A Bosch dishwasher filter is made up of three components. The inner core filter is surrounded by a mesh filter, which is surrounded by a fine mesh filter. The filter is surrounded by a square metal mesh panel, which will also need to be removed to access the fine mesh filter component.

How to resolve the Bosch e22 error code

Step 1: For safety, unplug the dishwasher.

Step 2: Open the dishwasher door, and remove the bottom dish rack from the dishwasher so that you can access the filter.

Step 3: Remove the bottom spray arm to provide better access to the filter. Dishwasher spray arms can usually be removed by simply pulling them out or by loosening a screw cap.

Step 4: Locate the circular filter at the bottom of the dishwasher. The filter should be at the center of the square, metal mesh panel in the dishwasher basin.

Step 5: Turn the filter counterclockwise to unlock it, and then pull it out of the dishwasher.

Step 6: Remove the square, metal mesh panel from the basin of the dishwasher. The panel can easily be lifted out by hand, but be careful of sharp edges or hot water if the dishwasher has just finished a cycle.

Step 7: Remove the fine mesh filter component.

Step 8: Wash the three filter components and metal mesh panel with detergent and warm water. Use a soft brush (perhaps an old toothbrush) to remove stubborn debris.

Step 9: Return the filter and panel to the dishwasher. Remember to put the fine mesh filter component back first, then the square panel, followed by the remaining filter components.

Step 10: Make sure to lock the filter in place by turning it clockwise so that the arrows on the basin align.

Step 11: Return the dish rack and spray arm to the dishwasher.

Step 12: Reconnect the power to the dishwasher.

Step 13: Run a quick cycle to check that the e22 error code has been resolved.

What if the error code still remains after cleaning the filter?

If the e22 error code remains after the dishwasher filter has been cleaned, there may be a blockage in the drain hose or a problem with the drain pump. However, a clogged dishwasher filter remains the most likely cause of the error code, so make sure the filter is clean before proceeding to check these components.

If the filter is clean and the drain hose and pump are not clogged or defective, there could be a fault with the control board, which is causing a false error code. Control boards are difficult to test and repair, so it is best to contact a trained technician to troubleshoot the issue.

Calcium buildup

Another issue that may be causing the e22 error code is a buildup of calcium around the filter. Calcium buildup usually only affects the dishwasher if you live in an area where there are high levels of natural minerals in the water supply.

If calcium buildup is responsible for the e22 error code, you probably noticed it when you were cleaning the filter. To get calcium buildup off the filter, you should be able to use a soft brush and dishwashing detergent, or otherwise, a descaler or dishwasher cleaner can be bought to remove stubborn calcium buildup.

Check valve or impeller

If you were able to remove the filter from the dishwasher, depending on the model, you should also be able to check the pump impeller and the check valve from inside the dishwasher. The check valve is responsible for stopping wastewater from returning to the dishwasher after it has been pumped out via the drain hose.

Once the dishwasher’s filter has been removed, look for a screw that can be removed to provide further access. After removing the screw, you should see a part of the pump impeller and a small rubber check valve. The check valve can be pulled out and the impeller rotated to check for any debris that may be stopping the dishwasher from draining.

Tip: Try a dishwasher cleaner

Before removing any access panels to locate the internal drain hose and dishwasher pump, try using a dishwasher cleaning solution to clear the blockage. A dishwasher cleaning solution can be purchased from a hardware store or supermarket.

Drain hose and dishwasher pump

Depending on your dishwasher model, you may be able to access these parts by removing the dishwasher filter. However, particularly for the internal drain hose, you will likely need to remove the dishwasher’s kick plate access panel.

Before removing the kick plate, make sure the dishwasher is disconnected from the power. Once the kick plate is removed, the electrical box will likely need to be opened and the wire nuts removed to disconnect the wires. The water inlet line and drain hose may also need to be disconnected to access the pump or to pull the dishwasher out from under a cabinet.

Other dishwashers may have an access panel at the back of or beneath the dishwasher. Check your owner’s manual for pump and drain hose access instructions.

Depending on the model, your Bosch dishwasher may have two pumps or one. If there are two pumps, one is a circulation pump and the other a drainage pump. Both pumps should be checked for a blockage or signs of damage.

In summary

A Bosch dishwasher e22 error code is usually resolved by cleaning the dishwasher filter, which can be accessed from inside the dishwasher by removing the dish rack and spray arms. If cleaning the filter does not solve the issue, the check valve, pump, and drain hose should be checked for blockages or damage.

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