E36
Bosch Dishwasher
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E36 error on a Bosch dishwasher indicates a problem with the drain pump — either the pump is not running correctly or the drain system is blocked. The dishwasher detected that water did not drain as expected during or after a wash cycle. Check the filter and drain hose before calling for service.
Affected Models
- SHPM88Z75N
- SHPM65Z55N
- SHEM63W55N
- SHDX5EM3N
- Most Bosch 500, 800 series dishwashers
Common Causes
- Drain filter is clogged with food debris and grease
- Drain hose is kinked, blocked, or not properly elevated
- Drain pump impeller is jammed by a piece of glass, bone, or hard debris
- Drain pump motor has failed
- Garbage disposal knockout plug was not removed during installation
How to Fix It
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Cancel the wash cycle and remove any standing water from the tub using a towel or sponge.
You need to access the filter at the bottom of the tub, so clearing the water first makes it easier.
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Remove and clean the drain filter at the bottom of the tub.
Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and lift it out. Rinse it under the tap to remove food debris and grease.
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Clean the flat mesh filter screen below the cylindrical filter.
Lift this screen out and rinse it thoroughly. Grease buildup on this screen is a very common cause of drainage errors.
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Check the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher for kinks.
The hose should loop up high under the counter before dropping down to the drain — this high loop prevents back-siphoning. Make sure it is not kinked.
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Reinstall the filter and run a short rinse cycle to test drainage.
If E36 returns after cleaning the filter, the drain pump impeller may be jammed. A technician can access and clear it.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the filter and drain hose does not resolve E36, the drain pump needs inspection. A jammed or burned-out pump requires professional replacement. Expect repair costs of $120–$250 for parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Bosch dishwasher filter?
Bosch recommends cleaning the filter once a month under normal use. If you run the dishwasher daily or wash heavily soiled dishes without pre-rinsing, clean it every 2 weeks. A clean filter is the single most important maintenance step for preventing drain errors.
Can food scraps cause a drain pump to fail?
Yes — hard pieces of food like fruit pits, small bones, or broken glass can pass through a clogged filter and jam the pump impeller. Once the impeller is jammed, the pump motor can burn out if the dishwasher keeps trying to drain. Always keep the filter clean to protect the pump.
What is the high-loop requirement for a Bosch dishwasher drain hose?
The drain hose should be routed up to the underside of the counter before dropping down to the sink drain or garbage disposal. This creates an air break that prevents dirty drain water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. If the hose hangs straight down without a loop, back-siphoning can cause drainage and odor problems.