Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining: Causes & Fixes
Bosch dishwashers are known for reliability, but a clogged filter or failed drain pump can still leave standing water in the tub after a cycle finishes.
Common causes
Clogged fine filter
Bosch dishwashers use a fine mesh filter combined with a coarse filter. Food particles collect here first and are the most common cause of poor drainage.
Stuck check valve
The drain check valve prevents dirty water from flowing back into the tub. If it sticks closed, water can't drain out.
Kinked drain hose
Especially common after a dishwasher is reinstalled or the cabinet layout is tight, the drain hose can develop a kink that blocks flow.
Drain pump failure
If the pump motor fails, the dishwasher will run its cycle normally but never drain.
What to check first
Remove and rinse both filters
Twist and lift out the fine and coarse filter assembly at the bottom of the tub, then rinse thoroughly under running water.
Inspect the drain hose path
Check for kinks behind the dishwasher and make sure the high loop (if your installation uses one) isn't collapsed.
Check for the E15 error code
If your display shows E15, this specifically indicates the float switch detected water and triggered Bosch's leak-protection Aquastop system — see our dedicated E15 guide.
Run a rinse-only cycle
After cleaning the filters, run a short cycle to check whether water now drains properly.
When to call a technician
If the filters are clean and the hose isn't kinked but water still won't drain, the check valve or drain pump likely needs replacement — both require partial disassembly of the dishwasher base.
Frequently asked questions
Why is there always a little water at the bottom of my Bosch dishwasher?
A small amount of standing water in the sump area is normal on many Bosch models and keeps the seal from drying out — it's only a problem if the water level is high enough to cover the filter.
Do you repair Bosch dishwasher error codes in Denver?
Yes — we diagnose and repair all Bosch dishwasher error codes including E15, E22, E24, and E25, with parts stocked for the most common failures.
Need a brand-specific repair? See our Dishwasher Repair service for this brand.
Still having trouble? We can fix it today.
Call now for same-day service across the Denver metro, or request a free estimate online.