E25
Bosch Washer
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
The E25 error on a Bosch washer indicates that the drain pump is blocked or the pump filter is clogged. It is a more specific drainage fault compared to E20. The pump motor is running but water flow is restricted or stopped entirely. Cleaning the pump filter usually resolves E25 in most cases.
Affected Models
- WAW285H2UC
- WAS28460UC
- WAT28400UC
- WFVC3300UC
- Most Bosch Series 4, 6, and 8 front-load washers
Common Causes
- The pump filter is blocked with lint, hair, or small items from clothing
- A small foreign object (coin, button, hairpin) is lodged in the drain pump impeller
- The drain hose is partially blocked by a buildup of detergent residue
- The household drain is slow or blocked, causing water to back up
- The drain pump is starting to fail and cannot move water effectively
How to Fix It
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Locate the access panel at the bottom front of your Bosch washer.
It's usually held by a snap latch or two screws. Open it to reveal the emergency drain hose and pump filter.
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Place towels and a shallow tray under the access panel opening.
Water will flow out when you open the filter. Having towels ready prevents a mess.
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Open the small emergency drain hose cap and let the water drain into the tray.
This manually empties the drum. It may take several minutes if there's a full load of water.
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Unscrew the pump filter cap by turning it counterclockwise.
Pull the filter out completely. Clean it under running water, removing all lint, hair, coins, and debris.
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Look inside the filter housing with a flashlight.
Check that the pump impeller (a small plastic fan blade) spins freely. If it's jammed by a foreign object, remove the object carefully.
When to Call a Professional
If the E25 error returns after cleaning the filter, the pump impeller may be damaged or the pump motor may be failing. A technician can inspect the pump and replace it if needed. Drain pump replacement costs $120–$280 including parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between E20 and E25 on a Bosch washer?
Both codes indicate drain problems. E20 is a general drain failure — water did not drain within the timeout period. E25 typically points more specifically to a blocked pump filter or restricted pump flow. The troubleshooting steps are very similar — clean the filter first for both.
Can I open the pump filter while the drum is full of water?
Yes — but use the emergency drain hose first. This small hose (usually capped with a plug) lets you empty the water in a controlled way. If you open the filter cap without draining first, several gallons of water will pour out immediately. Always drain through the emergency hose first.
How do I know if the pump impeller is damaged?
After cleaning the filter, look inside the housing with a flashlight. The impeller looks like a small plastic fan with several blades. Try spinning it with your finger — it should rotate smoothly. If blades are broken off or the impeller won't spin, the pump needs replacement.