Does the E24 error indicate a pump problem?
Yes, on a Bosch dishwasher like model SHE3AR55UC, the E24 error points to a drain problem; a bad drain pump can cause it, but we treat clogs, kinks, and installation issues as the most common root cause before replacing parts. Use the installation guide for the correct drain hose routing.
E24 is triggered when the dishwasher cannot move water out fast enough. Before assuming the pump failed, we check the simple restrictions that block flow.
- Clean the filter area and remove debris (labels, glass, food, twist ties)
- Check the sink drain connection for a blockage
- If connected to a garbage disposal, make sure the disposal inlet knockout plug was removed
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks, crushing, or a sag that traps water
- Verify the drain hose has a proper high loop or air gap (per install requirements)
- Make sure the dishwasher isn’t trying to drain into a clogged sink drain
If the drain path is clear and E24 returns, the drain pump or a related drain component is the next place we look.
Common pump-related causes:
- Pump impeller jammed or damaged
- Pump motor not running (open winding, seized rotor)
- Loose wiring connection to the pump
- A stuck or leaking check valve that lets water flow back
| Symptom you notice | Most likely area | Example part for SHE3AR55UC |
|---|---|---|
| Hums but won’t drain | Pump jammed or failing | Drain pump 00611332 |
| Drains slowly, then errors | Restriction or hose issue | Dishwasher drain hose 00668108 or dishwasher drain hose 00645149 |
| Drains, then water returns | Backflow/check issue | Valve 00611320 |
A true drain fault can leave dirty water in the tub, cause repeated cycle stops, and strain the pump and control logic. Clearing restrictions first prevents unnecessary part replacement and usually restores normal draining.
We match parts to your exact Bosch dishwasher configuration by model. Order replacement parts for SHE3AR55UC from the parts list for this model, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How can I force my Bosch dishwasher to drain?
On a Bosch dishwasher like model SHE3AR55UC, you can force a drain by canceling the current cycle: press and hold Start (or Reset/Cancel, depending on the control panel) for about 3 to 5 seconds until the unit begins a drain sequence. If it still will not drain, a clog or failed drain component is usually the cause.
- Press and hold Start/Reset for 3 to 5 seconds.
- Close the door fully and wait; the dishwasher typically runs a short drain (often 1 to 2 minutes).
- When the drain stops, open the door and check the tub water level.
- If water remains, turn off power at the breaker before checking the drain path.
For model-specific control behavior and indicator lights, follow the installation guide.
These are the most common causes on Bosch dishwashers:
- Filter area blocked (food debris, labels, broken glass) restricting the sump
- Drain hose kinked or clogged; also check the sink connection/air gap (if installed)
- Check valve stuck; it can prevent water from leaving the sump (see valve 00611320)
- Drain pump jammed or failed; listen for a humming sound with no water movement (see drain pump 00611332)
- Control not completing the drain command; a fault code can point you to the right circuit (see Bosch dishwasher error codes)
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| Standing water after cancel/drain | Clog in filter/sump or hose | Clean filter area; inspect hose routing |
| Humming but no draining | Pump jam or obstruction | Check pump inlet for debris; replace pump if needed |
| Drains slowly | Partial blockage or weak pump | Clear hose and check valve; test pump |
| Intermittent draining | Check valve sticking | Inspect/replace check valve |
Forcing a drain is a safe first step because it clears the tub before troubleshooting. If the dishwasher cannot evacuate water, it can leave odors, reduce cleaning performance, and trigger drain-related error codes.
If cleaning does not restore draining, these model-matched parts are frequent fixes:
You can order replacement parts for your Bosch SHE3AR55UC from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the most common problem with a Bosch dishwasher?
Drainage trouble is the most common issue we see on Bosch dishwashers like model SHE3AR55UC: water stays in the tub, cycles stop mid-run, or odors develop. The usual causes are a clogged filter area, a restricted drain hose, or a failing drain pump; leaks from the door seal are also common.
- Turn off power at the breaker before inspecting wiring or removing panels.
- Remove and clean the filter area in the bottom of the tub; clear food debris and labels.
- Check the sink drain or garbage disposal inlet (a blocked inlet stops dishwasher draining).
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks, crushing, or a low loop that can cause backflow.
- Run hot water at the sink for 30 to 60 seconds before starting a cycle to improve wash performance.
If cleaning and hose checks do not restore normal draining, these model-matched parts are the most common next steps:
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example part for SHE3AR55UC |
|---|---|---|
| Standing water, humming, no drain-out | Drain system | Drain pump 00611332 |
| Slow drain, water returns to tub | Backflow prevention | Valve 00611320 |
| Leaks at the door edges, damp insulation | Door sealing | Sealing 00645141 |
| Not filling or fills very slowly | Water supply | Dishwasher water inlet valve 00622058 |
Bosch dishwashers often report drainage or fill problems through error codes. Use our Bosch dishwasher error codes guide to match the code to the most likely cause (drain restriction, pump issue, fill valve issue) and the right repair path.
Drain restrictions and small leaks usually start as minor performance issues (odor, poor cleaning, longer cycles) but can quickly turn into no-start conditions, repeated stopping, or water damage. Catching the problem early typically keeps the repair limited to cleaning, a hose correction, or a single replacement part.
You can order replacement parts for your Bosch SHE3AR55UC dishwasher from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect. For installation and routing details (especially drain hose and mounting), use the installation guide.
Last updated: February 2026





