What this error means
Partial blockage — the machine has detected that the drainage system is restricted but not completely blocked.
The E24 error on a Zanussi washing machine indicates the control board has detected a partial blockage in the drainage system — water is moving but at a significantly reduced rate compared to what the machine expects during a drain phase. This code sits between a slow drain and a complete blockage. The most common causes are a partially blocked pump filter, a section of drain hose that is kinked or compressed, a partially obstructed pump impeller, or a household waste connection that is beginning to block. Unlike E20, the pump is still achieving some drainage but not enough to keep up with the machine's requirements.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Machine drains but noticeably more slowly than usual
- Pump runs for longer than expected before the spin phase begins
- Some water remains visible in the drum at the end of a programme
- E24 displayed during or at the end of a wash or rinse phase
How to fix it
Unplug the machine. Because E24 indicates a significant restriction, there will be water remaining in the drum and hose. Lay towels across the floor and place a tray directly beneath the filter access flap before opening it.
Open the access flap and position your tray beneath the filter cap. Turn the cap anti-clockwise by a quarter turn to release water slowly. Empty the tray and continue until no more water flows. Unscrew the cap fully and remove the filter. Rinse it under warm water and scrub the mesh thoroughly with a toothbrush. Reach into the housing cavity with a torch and clear debris from around the pump entrance.
Shine a torch into the empty filter cavity. Locate the impeller at the back and try to rotate it gently with one finger. It should spin smoothly with light, even resistance. Any stiffness, catching, or grinding indicates a partial obstruction around the impeller blades that is contributing to the restricted flow.
Trace the drain hose from the machine rear to the household waste. Straighten every kink and compressed section. Check the hose end in the standpipe is no more than 15 centimetres deep and is not sealed against the pipe wall. A hose that is fully inserted and sealed prevents air from entering and creates back-pressure during drainage.
Refit the filter firmly and clockwise. Plug in and run Spin Only. Listen to the pump — it should activate immediately and the drain hose should deliver a strong, uninterrupted flow of water. If the flow sounds weak or intermittent, there is still a partial restriction somewhere in the system that has not been fully cleared.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller turns but only with significant stiffness — obstruction inside the pump body that cannot be reached from the filter side
- E24 persists after filter cleaning, impeller inspection, and drain hose check — pump motor is losing efficiency
- Pump outlet hose has collapsed internally and restricts flow regardless of external straightening
- Wiring connector to the pump is corroded or damaged
Frequently asked questions
How is E24 different from E20 or E21 on a Zanussi washing machine?
What causes E24 to appear after a filter that was recently cleaned?
Can the household drain cause E24?
Is E24 likely to get worse if left?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Drain Pump | £15 - £20 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Drain Pump | £15 - £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.