Can I still use my appliance with an E22 error?
We do not recommend running your Bosch dishwasher model SPX5ES55UC with an E22 error showing. E22 points to a drain or filter restriction; continuing to run it can leave standing water in the sump and can lead to poor cleaning, odors, and leaks.
E22 is commonly tied to restricted water flow through the filter area or drainage trouble caused by debris in the filter system, sump, or waste water pump.
- Turn the dishwasher off, then disconnect power at the breaker before servicing.
- Remove and clean the filter system (rinse under hot water; scrub grease film if needed).
- Check the sump area for food debris, glass, labels, or twist ties.
- Inspect the waste water pump cover area for obstructions (standing water over the filters is a common clue).
- Reinstall filters fully seated and locked, then run a short cycle to test.
For model-specific access steps and care guidance, follow the filter and pump-cleaning instructions in the owner's manual.
Only run the dishwasher after you have cleaned the filters and cleared any blockage and the unit drains normally.
| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Water covering the filters | Drain path or pump area is blocked | Clean filters; clear pump cover area |
| E22 returns quickly | Restriction still present | Recheck sump, drain path, and filter seating |
| Dishes not clean | Wash water circulation is affected | Clean filters; verify spray arms are not clogged |
If cleaning does not resolve the issue, a drain-related component may need attention.
- Dishwasher sump 00668102 (debris buildup or internal restriction)
- Dishwasher check valve 00611320 (can stick or clog and affect draining)
- Dishwasher turbidity sensor 00611323 (can be affected by heavy soil and buildup)
Bosch dishwashers rely on a clean filter system to protect the pump and keep water moving correctly. Clearing the restriction restores normal draining, improves cleaning performance, and helps prevent water from lingering around seals and the base.
For code definitions and what to check next, use our Bosch dishwasher error codes guide.
Last updated: February 2026
How can I force my Bosch dishwasher to drain?
To force your Bosch dishwasher model SPX5ES55UC to drain, cancel the current cycle: open the door just enough to reach the controls, press and hold Start for about 3 seconds, close the door, then wait about 1 minute while it pumps the water out (see the owner's manual).
- Open the door slightly so you can access the control panel (watch for hot water).
- Press and hold Start for approximately 3 seconds until the display shows "0:01".
- Close the door.
- Wait about 1 minute for the drain pump to run.
- Open the door and press On/Off to turn the dishwasher off.
Standing water usually means a restriction in the drain path or a drain component issue.
- Remove and clean the filters in the bottom of the tub (food debris can block flow).
- Check the drain hose routing under the sink for kinks, crushing, or a high loop problem.
- Clear the sink drain or disposer inlet where the dishwasher hose connects.
- If the unit drains only sometimes, inspect the drain check valve area for debris; a worn valve can let water fall back.
- If you see leak related symptoms along with draining problems, the safety system can interfere with normal operation.
These parts are on the parts list for this model and are commonly involved when water will not evacuate properly.
| Symptom | What to inspect | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Water remains in tub after cancel | Backflow or restriction at sump outlet | Dishwasher check valve 00611320 |
| Slow drain, debris recirculating | Blockage or buildup in sump area | Dishwasher sump 00668102 |
A proper drain clears dirty water so the next wash starts with clean fill water. If water sits in the tub, it can cause odors, poor cleaning, and repeated drain errors.
Last updated: February 2026
How to clean a Bosch dishwasher air gap?
To clean the air gap for your Bosch SPX5ES55UC dishwasher, remove the cap, clear debris from the air-gap cylinder and side outlet, then flush with hot water and reassemble. Keeping the air gap clear prevents drain backups and helps stop sink water from flowing back toward the dishwasher.
- Turn off power to the dishwasher at the breaker.
- If it just ran, let hot water cool before opening anything.
- Put a towel under the air gap and under the sink.
- Avoid steam cleaning around the dishwasher; follow the care guidance in the owner's manual.
- Lift or twist off the decorative air gap cap.
- Pull out the inner cover (if your air gap has one).
- Remove buildup (food, grease, mineral scale) from the cylinder.
- Scrub with a bottle brush or pipe cleaner.
- Clear the side outlet port (the port connected to the hose going to the sink drain or disposal).
- Flush the air gap with hot tap water for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Reinstall the inner cover and cap.
Most “air gap” drain problems are actually in the hose or backflow parts under the sink.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Water spurts from air gap | Air gap clogged | Clean and flush air gap |
| Slow drain | Hose kink or sludge | Straighten and clean hose |
| Water returns to tub | Check valve not sealing | Inspect/replace dishwasher check valve 00611320 |
- Make sure the air-gap to drain/disposal hose is not kinked.
- Remove the hose and rinse out sludge.
- If you have a garbage disposal, confirm the dishwasher inlet knockout plug was removed.
The air gap is a backflow prevention device. When it clogs, your dishwasher can stop draining, leave standing water, and create odors.
Last updated: February 2026
How to find part number for Bosch dishwasher?
To find the correct part number for your Bosch dishwasher, first match the appliance’s model and serial information from the rating label (typically on the edge of the door). Then use that exact model to look up the parts list and select the specific replacement part you need.
For Bosch dishwashers like model SPX5ES55UC, the model and serial number information is on a label located on the edge of the dishwasher door. Use the exact characters shown on that label when searching parts.
- Open the door and look along the inner edge of the door (side or top edge)
- Write down the model number and serial number exactly as printed
- If your label shows an E-Nr (model identifier) and FD (production code), record those too
- Take a clear photo of the label so you can zoom in later
- Keep the information with your paperwork for future repairs
For the official location details and identification info, use the owner's manual.
Once you have the model information, you can identify the part number by matching the part name to the symptom or repair.
Common examples for this Bosch dishwasher include:
| What you need | What to look up | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Rack won’t roll smoothly | Lower rack roller | Dishwasher dishrack roller, lower 00611475 |
| Detergent door won’t open | Detergent dispenser | Dishwasher detergent dispenser assembly 00645208 |
| Leaking at the door | Door gasket/seal | Dishwasher door seal 00263096 |
| Not draining well | Drain check valve | Dishwasher check valve 00611320 |
Bosch dishwashers often have multiple versions that look similar, and small differences in the model identification can change which pump, seal, sensor, or dispenser fits. Matching the rating label first prevents ordering the wrong part and repeating the repair.
Last updated: February 2026





