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Error code reference

Bosch Washer Error Code E:22

Overflow level exceeded

Bosch codesBosch washer codes

Overflow level exceeded — faulty or blocked pump, hose, or inlet valve.

First step from the service manual

Run test P9; check drain pump, hoses, and inlet valve.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E:22 means on a Bosch washer

The E:22 error code on a Bosch washer indicates that the machine has detected water at or beyond the overflow level inside the tub or sump area. This is a water-level protection fault, meaning the control board's pressure sensor or float switch has registered water accumulating beyond the designed maximum threshold. When this condition is detected, the washer halts its cycle to prevent water damage to the machine or surrounding area. The fault points specifically to failures in the drainage or water-entry systems.

The three primary systems involved are the drain pump, the drain hoses, and the inlet valve. A blocked or faulty drain pump prevents water from evacuating the tub during or after fill cycles, causing levels to rise unchecked. Similarly, a kinked, clogged, or improperly routed drain hose will restrict outflow and produce the same overflow condition. A failed inlet valve that does not fully close can allow water to continue entering the tub even when the control board has not commanded a fill, leading to slow overfill over time.

Diagnosis should begin with test mode P9, which is the drain pump test sequence on compatible Bosch platforms. Running P9 allows a technician to verify pump activation and listen for normal operation versus a seized or intermittent pump motor. After confirming pump function, physically inspect the drain hose for blockages, kinks, or improper standpipe height. The inlet valve solenoid should also be checked for resistance and for signs of debris preventing full valve closure.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E:22

  1. 01

    Blocked or faulty drain pump

    Part replacement

    Debris such as coins, lint, or small garments can lodge in the pump impeller, preventing it from evacuating water. Run test P9 to confirm whether the pump activates; a seized pump may produce a humming sound with no water movement.

  2. 02

    Kinked or clogged drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    A drain hose that is pinched behind the machine, installed with a low loop, or blocked with residue restricts water outflow and causes levels to rise. Visually inspect the full length of the hose and check the standpipe connection for obstructions.

  3. 03

    Failed or stuck inlet valve

    Part replacement

    An inlet valve that does not fully close after a fill command allows water to slowly trickle into the tub between cycles, eventually triggering the overflow sensor. Check the valve solenoid for correct resistance and inspect the valve seat for debris preventing closure.

  4. 04

    Blocked pump filter or sump

    Wiring / connection

    Most Bosch front-load washers have a filter accessible at the front lower panel. A heavily clogged filter restricts flow to the pump and can cause standing water to accumulate. Clean the filter and check the sump chamber for foreign objects.

  5. 05

    Pressure sensor or hose fault

    Part replacement

    If the pressure sensor hose is cracked, disconnected, or waterlogged, the control board may receive an inaccurate water-level reading and trigger E:22 even when the actual water level is within range. Inspect the small diameter hose running from the sump to the pressure sensor for damage or blockage.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E:22

What does E:22 mean on a Bosch washer?
E:22 means the washer has detected water at or above the overflow level inside the machine. The control board stops the cycle as a safety measure to prevent flooding. The fault is linked to the drain pump, drain hose, or inlet valve, one or more of which is not functioning correctly. Diagnosis starts with running test mode P9 to evaluate drain pump operation.
Can I fix E:22 on my Bosch washer myself?
Some causes of E:22 are DIY-friendly, particularly cleaning a clogged drain hose or the pump filter, which requires no special tools. If the issue is a failed drain pump or a stuck inlet valve, replacing those components is a moderate-difficulty repair that requires disconnecting water supply lines and electrical connectors. Running test P9 first will help narrow down whether the pump is the source before purchasing parts.
Is it safe to use my Bosch washer while it is showing E:22?
No, you should not run the washer while E:22 is active. The error indicates an overflow condition, meaning the machine cannot properly control water levels. Continuing to run it risks water damage to the washer's electrical components, the floor, and surrounding cabinetry. Address the drain pump, hose, and inlet valve before resuming use.
Will resetting the washer clear the E:22 error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error display, but if the underlying fault is not corrected, E:22 will return as soon as the machine attempts to fill or drain again. Resetting is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it does not fix a blocked pump, clogged hose, or faulty inlet valve. The root cause must be resolved for the error to stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch washer with error code E:22?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Cleaning the drain hose or pump filter costs nothing beyond time, or a service call fee of roughly $75 to $150 if a technician performs it. A replacement drain pump typically ranges from $40 to $120 for the part, with labor adding $100 to $200 at a repair shop. An inlet valve replacement is generally similar in part cost, ranging from $30 to $90, with comparable labor rates.

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