Can I fix a dishwasher not draining myself?

Start with the filter and drain hose. If water still will not drain after those checks, a technician should inspect the pump and controls.

How much does it cost to fix a dishwasher that will not drain?

If it is the filter, it can be a free DIY fix. If it is the drain pump, we provide a flat-rate quote before repair begins.

Do Bosch dishwasher E24 errors usually mean pump failure?

Not always. The filter and hose should be checked first, but repeat E24 errors often point to a drain-path or pump issue.

Dishwasher Not Draining? 6 Causes & How to Fix It (2026)

Standing water in the bottom of your dishwasher after a cycle is one of the most common dishwasher problems. The good news — it is usually not a major repair.

Work through these 6 causes in order. If you are in South Florida and need a technician today, call Express Xpert at (888) 822-7754 or visit our dishwasher repair service page.

6 Reasons Your Dishwasher Won't Drain

1. Clogged Filter

The filter at the bottom of the dishwasher traps food particles. If it is clogged, water cannot drain.

How to fix: Remove the bottom rack, unscrew or lift out the filter assembly, rinse under hot water, and brush away debris. This alone solves many drain complaints.

2. Blocked Drain Hose

The drain hose runs from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. It can kink, clog with grease, or lose the proper high-loop position.

Fix: Straighten kinks, confirm the high loop, or replace a damaged hose.

3. Garbage Disposal Knockout Plug

If you recently installed a new garbage disposal, the knockout plug inside the disposal inlet may still be in place.

Fix: Remove the knockout plug inside the disposal inlet before reconnecting the dishwasher drain hose.

4. Clogged Air Gap

Homes with an air gap — the small chrome cylinder near the faucet — can experience drainage problems when debris collects inside.

Fix: Remove the cap and clean out the debris.

5. Failed Drain Pump

The drain pump forces water out of the dishwasher through the hose.

Signs: You hear the dishwasher trying to drain but water stays behind.

Fix: Drain pump replacement — usually a same-day repair.

6. Control Board or Door Latch Issue

If the dishwasher does not complete the cycle, it may stop before reaching the drain portion. A bad door latch or control issue can cause that behavior.

Bosch Dishwasher Not Draining — E24 Error

Bosch dishwashers often show E24 when the drain is blocked. Start by cleaning the filter and checking the hose. If E24 returns, the drain pump may have failed. Express Xpert carries Bosch drain pumps and can repair them same day across South Florida.

Need a technician in South Florida? Call Express Xpert at (888) 822-7754 for same-day appliance repair. You can also visit our dishwasher repair page for direct scheduling.

Dishwasher Not Draining — 6 Causes and How to Fix Them