Error E21 Dishwasher Bosch

What is the fault of Error E21 Bosch affecting your dishwasher?

If you have a Bosch dishwasher, you may encounter the Error Code E21 on the screen at some point. This code indicates that there is a problem with the drainage pump and/or drainage of your dishwasher. It is likely that this pump is clogged or, in plain terms, damaged and needs replacement.

With a faulty pump in your dishwasher, it won't be able to drain the water properly, leading to potential leaks or unpleasant odors. In this article, we will explain what this type of error means, its possible causes, and how to resolve it once and for all. This way, you can enjoy your dishwasher again without having to spend money on a technical service.

The Error Code E21 in Bosch dishwashers refers, as mentioned earlier, to a failure in the drainage pump. The pump is responsible for expelling dirty water from the dishwasher at the end of each washing cycle. If the pump does not function correctly, water remains inside the appliance, leading to problems such as:

• Water leaks beneath the dishwasher.
• Unpleasant odors due to the accumulation of food residues and grease.
• Excessive noise during the dishwasher's operation.
• Flashing or locking of the control panel.

These symptoms can affect the performance and lifespan of your dishwasher, so it's essential to address the problem promptly. The Error Code E21 in Bosch dishwashers can have various causes, including:

• The pump is clogged with food residues, grease, or foreign objects: This prevents water from circulating properly, leading to water accumulation inside the dishwasher.
• The pump is damaged due to wear, impact, or lack of maintenance: This causes the pump to lack the necessary force to expel water or, in some cases, to stop working altogether.
• The dishwasher filter is dirty or improperly placed: The filter is a component located at the bottom of the dishwasher, designed to trap water impurities. If the filter is dirty or incorrectly placed, it can block the flow of water to the pump.
• The drainage tube and/or drain are bent, crushed, or blocked: The drainage tube is the conduit through which water exits the dishwasher to the general drainage system. If the tube is bent, crushed, or blocked, it can prevent water from exiting properly and cause it to return to the dishwasher.
• The water level sensor is defective: The water level sensor detects the amount of water inside the dishwasher and sends a signal to the control panel to indicate when to stop the pump. If the sensor is defective, it may send an erroneous signal, causing the pump to stop either too early or too late.

How to fix Error E21 on Bosch dishwasher?

To solve the E21 error code in Bosch dishwashers, you can follow these steps below:

1. Restart the dishwasher to reset the appliance sensors: Sometimes, the E21 error code may be a false positive caused by a temporary sensor glitch. To rule out this possibility, you can restart the dishwasher by unplugging it from the electrical outlet for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. Once done, turn it on, initiate a washing cycle, and check if the error has disappeared.
2. Clean the drainage pump of your dishwasher: To clean the pump, you need to access it from the bottom of the dishwasher by removing the front panel and the protective cover. Once you locate the pump, turn it counterclockwise and carefully remove it. Then, clean it with a soft-bristle brush or a damp cloth, removing any food residue, grease, or foreign objects that may be inside or on its blades. Afterward, reinstall the pump and check if the error has disappeared. If you notice significant damage to the pump, then you will likely need to replace it with a new one.
3. Check your dishwasher's filter and clean it if necessary: Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher, carefully remove it without applying too much pressure. Clean it with warm water, soap, and a bit of vinegar, using a soft-bristle brush for this process, eliminating any dirt on its surface or in its grooves. Also, ensure the filter is properly placed and free from any cracks or damage. Finally, reinsert the filter, securing it firmly in place.
4. Ensure the drainage tube is in good condition: To check the drainage tube, follow its path from the dishwasher to your home's general drainage and verify that there are no bends, crushes, or blockages that could hinder the proper water flow. If you find any issues, correct them by straightening the tube, clearing it with a wire, or replacing it with a new one if it is broken or punctured.
5. Replace the water level sensor in your dishwasher or perform preventive maintenance: To replace the water level sensor, access it from the bottom of the dishwasher by removing the front panel and the protective cover. Once you locate the sensor, disconnect the cables connecting it to the control panel and carefully remove it. Then, install the new sensor in its place and reconnect the corresponding cables. You can also try a quick maintenance routine with a damp cloth and a soft-bristle brush.
6. If the problem persists, you can repeat all the previous steps: You can conduct a second check of everything described above in case the problem persists. If, after all the checks and cleanings, the error continues to appear, there may be another faulty component that requires a more complex repair.
7. Bosch technical support can help you solve the problem: If you are unable to resolve the error on your own, it is advisable to contact Bosch's official technical service for a qualified professional to inspect and repair your dishwasher. We are confident that they will assist you in the best possible way by conducting a thorough examination of your dishwasher and providing an appropriate solution.

In summary, the E21 error code on Bosch dishwashers indicates that there is a problem with the drainage pump, which may be obstructed or damaged. This prevents water from exiting the appliance properly and can lead to leaks or unpleasant odors. The possible solutions you can apply to fix this issue are as follows:

• Restart the dishwasher to reset the appliance sensors
• Clean the drainage pump of your dishwasher or replace it with a new one
• Check your dishwasher's filter and clean it if necessary
• Ensure the drainage tube is in good condition
• Replace the water level sensor in your dishwasher or perform preventive maintenance
• If the problem persists, you can repeat all the previous steps
• Bosch technical support can help you solve the problem