Siemens E22 Dishwasher Error Code — What It Means & How To Fix It

Diagnosis

What this error means

Blocked Filter System

E22 on a Siemens dishwasher means the fine mesh filter system at the base of the machine is blocked. The wash pump cannot circulate water effectively. This is the most common Siemens dishwasher fault and is almost always resolved by a filter clean.

Also known as: Same as Bosch & Neff E22

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For information purposes only. Always consult a qualified engineer before attempting repairs. 🔌 Unplug your appliance before any inspection or repair.

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Quick fix guide

⏱

Fix time

15 - 20 Minutes

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Difficulty

Anyone

🏠

Appliance

Dishwasher

What you'll need first

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Step-by-step

Remove lower basket

Remove cylindrical filter and mesh screen

Rinse both under hot water and scrub away grease and food particles

Refit filter and run a hot cycle

Diagnostic

Symptoms to look for

Dishes are coming out dirty or with food debris still on them
Standing water remains in the bottom of the machine after a cycle
The wash arms are not spinning correctly
An unusual grinding noise during the wash cycle
Cycles take longer than usual to complete

Step-by-step repair guide

How to fix it

Time 15 - 20 Minutes

Skill Anyone

Switch off and unplug the machine

Never work on an appliance connected to the power supply.

Remove the lower basket and locate the cylindrical filter unit in the centre-bottom of the machine.

Turn the cylindrical filter anti-clockwise and lift it out. Also remove the flat mesh filter plate beneath it.

Rinse both filter components under a hot tap. Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush is ideal) to scrub away grease and trapped food particles.

For heavy limescale, soak the filter in a solution of white vinegar and warm water for 10–15 minutes.

Refit the filter, ensuring the cylindrical part clicks back into the locked position when turned clockwise.

Run a hot maintenance wash (60°C or above) with a dishwasher cleaner tablet to clear the internal pipes.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my Siemens dishwasher filter?

Ideally once a month, or more frequently if you wash heavily soiled dishes without pre-rinsing.

My filter looks clean but E22 is still showing — why?

The error may have stored in the control board’s memory. Run a full cycle after cleaning. If it persists, the circulation pump itself may be partially blocked or failing. Inspect the drain pump impeller as shown in the E25 guide.

Can a blocked filter damage the machine?

Yes. Running the machine long-term with a blocked filter puts strain on the wash pump motor and can cause it to burn out prematurely.

How to unblock your Dishwasher Pump

Watch Time 3 mins - from Bosch Home UK & Ireland

This video shows you how to clear the E22 error on your Dishwasher. Siemens shares a platform with Bosch & Neff so the steps and solutions are the same.

Key points covered

Filter removal
Drain pump cover removal
Inspection of impeller

🎯 What is likely causing this fault?

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Filter blockage (food debris, grease) 70%

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Partial blockage in sump/drain path 15%

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Poor cleaning maintenance (build-up over time) 10%

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Sensor misread 5%

⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.

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Parts you may need

Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine

Your model number

Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.

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Part	Approx. UK Cost	Find it
Filter assembly model filtered	£10 - £20	🛒 Amazon UK →
Filter assembly model filtered	£10 - £20	🏷️ eBay UK →

ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.

🇬🇧 UK — Parts & Replacements