Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Turn off the dishwasher. Lay down towels — there may be water at the bottom.
- Remove the bottom rack. Unscrew the cylindrical filter counter-clockwise and lift it out. Remove the flat mesh screen beneath it.
- Rinse both filters under warm water, scrubbing with a soft brush. Reinstall.
- Check the drain hose (runs from the back of the dishwasher to under the sink). Ensure it is not kinked or clogged.
- If connected to a garbage disposal, confirm the knockout plug was removed during installation.
- Remove the pump cover beneath the filter area. Check for debris in the pump well and remove any found.
- Run a wash cycle to test. If water still does not drain, proceed to the hose and air gap checks.
If it's still not draining
- If the drain path looks clear but the code returns, the issue is more likely in the pump path or another less accessible restriction.
- If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
What This Error Means
Error code E24 on your Thermador dishwasher indicates: The dishwasher is not draining properly due to the drain filter being blocked. The appliance detects this condition through its built-in sensors and halts the current cycle to prevent further damage. Depending on the model, the code may flash on the display panel, appear on a digital readout, or cause the status lights to blink in a specific sequence. The dishwasher will not resume normal operation until the underlying fault is resolved.
The most frequent cause of error E24 is clogged drain filter. When this happens, the dishwasher's control board detects the abnormal sensor reading or motor response and triggers the fault code as a protective measure. Other contributing factors are listed in the causes section below — working through them in order is the fastest path to a fix.
Error E24 is one of the most DIY-friendly Thermador dishwasher fault codes. Most homeowners can clear it in under 15 minutes without tools or replacement parts. Follow the step-by-step guide below exactly — skipping steps is the most common reason the error comes back.
The most visible symptom of E24 is standing water at the bottom of the tub at the end of a cycle — the dishwasher failed to pump it out. The water may appear cloudy from food particles or detergent residue. Do not run another cycle until the fault is cleared, as this could allow water to overflow onto the floor.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Thermador dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Clogged drain filter (most common — needs monthly cleaning)
Check first: SAFETY: Turn off the dishwasher. Lay down towels — there may be water at the bottom.
Water may remain inside the appliance instead of clearing normally.
Likely cause: Blocked or kinked drain hose
Check first: Remove the bottom rack. Unscrew the cylindrical filter counter-clockwise and lift it out. Remove the flat mesh screen beneath it.
Performance may drop because airflow, filtering, or draining is restricted.
Likely cause: Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed (new installations)
Check first: Rinse both filters under warm water, scrubbing with a soft brush. Reinstall.
Common Causes
- Clogged drain filter (most common — needs monthly cleaning)
- Blocked or kinked drain hose
- Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed (new installations)
- Loose or missing pump cover beneath the filter
- Blocked air gap on the sink countertop
What Not to Do
- Do not run further cycles until the fault is resolved
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Thermador dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Replacement filter assembly ($20–$45) - if filter mesh is torn
- Drain hose ($15–$35) - if kinked hose won't straighten
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Thermador dishwasher parts.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
All seven DIY steps completed and dishwasher still won't drain
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Clean the dishwasher filter every 4 weeks
- Always run the garbage disposal before starting a dishwasher cycle
Related Error Codes
Extra notes
- This page is based on Thermador support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-09
Based on: Based on Thermador support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
Model coverage note: Thermador dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.