Can I still use my appliance with an E22 error?
We do not recommend running your Bosch dishwasher model SHX878WD5N while an E22 error is active because it typically points to a draining problem (often a clogged filter area, drain path, or a struggling drain pump). Clearing the cause first prevents poor cleaning and water left in the tub.
What E22 usually means on a Bosch dishwasher
E22 is most commonly tied to restricted draining or water not moving out as expected. In many cases, you can correct it with cleaning and a quick inspection before replacing parts.
Common causes to check first:
- Food debris blocking the filter area and sump
- Kinked, pinched, or partially blocked drain hose
- Drain pump impeller jammed by debris
- Check valve sticking or blocked
- Heavy suds from incorrect detergent (can slow draining)
Safe, practical steps to try before you run another cycle
- Cancel the cycle and let the unit drain (if it will).
- Remove standing water if needed, then clean the filter area thoroughly.
- Inspect the drain hose routing under the sink for kinks and clogs.
- Check the air gap (if your setup has one) and the garbage disposal inlet (if connected).
- If the dishwasher hums but does not drain, the pump may be jammed or failing.
If you suspect a drain component failure, these model-matched parts are common fixes:
Quick symptom-to-part guide
| What you notice | Most likely area | Part to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Water left in bottom, pump is silent | Drain pump not running | Dishwasher drain pump 00631200 |
| Water left in bottom, hose kinked/slow drain | Drain path restriction | Dishwasher drain hose 00744881 |
| Drains sometimes, then backs up | Backflow/check valve issue | Dishwasher check valve 00611320 |
Why it matters
Running with an active E22 condition often leaves dirty water in the sump, reduces spray pressure, and can cause repeated cycle interruptions. Fixing the drain restriction first protects the circulation system and helps restore normal wash performance.
If you need to order parts for SHX878WD5N, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with a Bosch dishwasher?
For the Bosch SHX878WD5N, the most common problems we see are maintenance-related: restricted water flow from clogged filters or spray arms, and drainage issues caused by a blockage or a failing drain component. These typically show up as poor cleaning, standing water, or slow draining.
Most common symptoms (and what they usually mean)
- Dishes come out dirty or gritty: spray arm holes or filters are clogged; water is not circulating strongly.
- Standing water in the bottom: drain path is blocked, or the drain pump is weak.
- Detergent not dissolving: poor spray action, overloading, or a spray arm not turning freely.
- Slow fill or no fill: water supply issue or inlet valve problem.
- Odd wash performance from zone to zone: diverter not routing water correctly.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Remove and rinse the filter area; clear food debris.
- Spin the spray arms by hand; make sure they rotate freely and the holes are clear.
- Check the sink drain and garbage disposer inlet (if connected) for restrictions.
- Confirm the drain hose is not kinked and has a proper high loop.
- Run a cleaning cycle and follow routine care steps from how to clean and maintain your dishwasher.
Common part-related fixes for SHX878WD5N
If cleaning and hose checks do not solve it, these are frequent repair paths on this model:
| Problem you notice | Most likely system | Part that often resolves it |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t drain or drains slowly | Drain system | Dishwasher drain pump 00631200 |
| Poor cleaning, weak spray | Wash circulation/heating | Dishwasher circulation pump with heater 12008381 |
| Not filling or fills slowly | Water inlet | Dishwasher water inlet valve 10023852 |
| Inconsistent spray between racks | Water routing | Dishwasher diverter assembly 00751950 |
Why it matters
Bosch dishwashers rely on strong circulation and a clear drain path. When filters, spray arms, or the drain route are restricted, the unit can still “run” but cleaning and draining performance drop fast, and cycles can take longer.
For model-specific fault patterns, we use Bosch dishwasher error codes to match symptoms to the most likely system.
Last updated: February 2026
Is the Bosch Silence Plus a good dishwasher?
Yes. Bosch “Silence Plus” dishwashers are known for very quiet operation and strong cleaning performance, and your Bosch SHX878WD5N is built for low-noise, everyday use in open kitchens. “Good” also depends on your priorities: noise level, drying results, cycle time, and repairability.
What “Silence Plus” usually means in real use
Most Silence Plus models focus on reducing sound while maintaining wash pressure and filtration. In day-to-day terms, that typically means:
- You can run cycles during conversations or TV time with minimal disruption
- Cleaning improves when spray arms stay clear and water circulation stays strong
- Drying performance depends heavily on rinse aid, loading, and heater operation
Quick checks that keep performance “good” over time
If cleaning or draining starts slipping, these are the first things we recommend checking on a Bosch dishwasher like SHX878WD5N:
- Clean the filter area and remove debris from the sump
- Confirm the upper and lower spray arms spin freely and holes are not clogged
- Use rinse aid and avoid overloading, especially plastics
- Verify the drain path is clear (air gap or high loop, no kinks)
- Watch for slow fill or weak wash, which can point to a valve or circulation issue
For step-by-step troubleshooting, use our dishwasher not cleaning dishes video.
Parts that most often affect “good” cleaning and draining
If symptoms match, these model-specific parts are common fixes:
| Symptom | Common cause | Part to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Water left in tub | Weak/blocked drain system | Dishwasher drain pump 00631200, dishwasher drain hose 00744881 |
| Poor cleaning, weak spray | Low circulation or diverter issue | Dishwasher circulation pump with heater 12008381, dishwasher diverter assembly 00751950 |
| Detergent door not opening | Dispenser failure or binding | Dishwasher detergent dispenser assembly 12008380 |
Why it matters
A quiet dishwasher is only “good” if it also fills, circulates, heats, and drains correctly. When one of those systems weakens, you will see longer cycles, residue on dishes, or standing water, even if the unit still sounds normal.
You can order SHX878WD5N replacement parts from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How long do Bosch dishwashers last?
Bosch dishwashers typically last 10 to 15 years. For your Bosch SHX878WD5N, consistent cleaning performance and lifespan depend most on routine maintenance (filters, spray arms, drain path) and avoiding chronic issues like poor draining or low water fill.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most Bosch dishwashers reach the 10 to 15 year range when these conditions stay under control:
- Water quality: hard water speeds up mineral buildup in the sump and spray arms
- Usage: multiple heavy loads daily shortens wear life on pumps and valves
- Drain health: clogs force the drain pump to work harder and can leave standing water
- Heating and circulation: weak wash action or heating problems can lead to repeat cycles and extra wear
- Basic upkeep: cleaning the filter area and checking spray arms prevents performance drop-offs
Maintenance checklist (best return for the effort)
We recommend these habits to keep your SHX878WD5N running longer:
- Clean the filter area and remove debris from the sump regularly
- Inspect spray arm holes and clear blockages; replace a damaged arm if it will not spin freely
- Keep the drain path clear (air gap or high loop, disposer inlet, and hose routing)
- Run a dishwasher cleaner periodically to reduce grease and mineral buildup
- Fix “small” symptoms early (slow drain, weak cleaning, detergent cup not opening)
Parts that commonly matter as the dishwasher ages
If performance drops, these parts are frequent culprits on many dishwashers, including Bosch models:
| Symptom | What it often points to | Example part on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Water left in tub | Drain restriction or weak drain pump | Dishwasher drain pump 00631200 |
| Poor cleaning, weak spray | Circulation issue or spray arm problem | Dishwasher circulation pump with heater 12008381 or dishwasher spray arm 00744883 |
| Not filling or fills slowly | Water supply issue or inlet valve | Dishwasher water inlet valve 10023852 |
| Detergent door not opening | Dispenser failure or obstruction | Dishwasher detergent dispenser assembly 12008380 |
Why it matters
A dishwasher can “run” for years while cleaning and drying get worse. Addressing early symptoms protects key components like the circulation pump, heater, and drain system, which are the parts that most directly affect wash performance and long-term reliability.
If you decide to repair, you can order SHX878WD5N replacement parts from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





