How to Fix the Siemens Dishwasher E23 Error Code

Introduction

Use this guide to clear common Siemens dishwasher E23 draining problems caused by a blocked filter, spray propeller, waste water pump impeller, drainage hose, or drainage U-bend. The waste water pump impeller, also called the fan impeller or pump propeller, must spin freely so the dishwasher can drain properly. Clean these areas when the dishwasher won't drain well, shows E23, or leaves dishes dirty. These instructions were written for a Siemens Bosch-style dishwasher with two spray propellers; other Bosch/Siemens models may have minor differences.

What you need

Step 1 Disconnect power and prepare for water

Unplug the dishwasher from the power supply power before you touch the filter, pump, or drain hose.
Don't work on the dishwasher while it is connected to power or plugged in near standing water.
Keep a bucket and old sponge nearby because water can remain in the sump and drain pipes.
Scrape heavy food from dishes before loading, but clean the filter regularly because it can still get filthy.

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Step 2 Remove baskets and clean the upper spray propeller

Pull the upper basket partway out to access the upper spray propeller.
Turn the upper spray propeller counterclockwise and pull it off.
Rinse the propeller under the tap and make sure water flows freely from the spray holes.
Push the propeller back onto its mount, turn it clockwise until it clips in, and check that it spins freely.
Squeeze both upper basket handles inward and pull the basket out.
Roll the lower basket forward and lift it out.

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Step 3 Remove and clean the filter and lower spray propeller

Turn the filter counterclockwise and lift it out of the bottom of the dishwasher.
Check the filter for residue, food bits, and debris.
Rinse the filter under the tap and use an brush to loosen stuck-on grime.
Lift the lower spray propeller straight up and out of the tub.
Rinse the lower spray propeller under the tap and make sure water comes out of the spray holes.
Set the clean filter and lower spray propeller aside while you clean the pump area.

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Step 4 Remove water from the pump well

Press an old sponge into the pump well to soak up excess water.
Wring the sponge into a sink or bucket.
Repeat two or three times until the pump well is as dry as you can get it.
A drier pump well makes debris around the pump impeller easier to see.

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Step 5 Clean the waste water pump impeller

Push the white pump cover clip inward until it clicks free, and lift the cover out.
Check the cover for debris and wash it under the tap.
Use tweezers to pull visible hair, food bits, and residue from the waterway.
Broken glass or sharp debris can hide in the pump area, so don't reach in blindly with your fingers.
Use an brush to brush out remaining goo around the pump opening.
Turn the pump impeller blade with a finger and confirm that it rotates freely.
If the impeller won't spin freely after cleaning, stop and have the waste water pump checked.

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Step 6 Reinstall the pump cover and filter

Refit the pump protective cover and align the small groove at the rear.
Press the cover down until it clicks into place.
Use the end of a metal spoon to press the cover if your fingers can't seat it fully.
Reinstall the lower spray propeller.
Reinstall the clean filter and turn it clockwise until it clicks.
Make sure the filter is locked in place before running the dishwasher.

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Step 7 Inspect the rear drain hose

Keep the dishwasher unplugged and pull it out far enough to reach the rear drain hose.
Avoid pulling the machine so far that hoses or the power cable are stretched.
Place a bucket and old sponge at the rear because water will spill from the drain hose.
Disconnect the drain hose from the drainage pipe and empty the hose into the bucket.
Look down the hose end and remove any obvious blockage or residue.
Leave the drain hose resting in the bucket while you inspect the drainage U-bend.

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Step 8 Check the drainage U-bend

Place a plastic tray under the drainage U-bend to catch water.
Hand-loosen the plastic U-bend connector or connectors.
One side may be enough to remove the whole pipe, depending on the sink drain setup.
Release the top clip or screws if the pipe is attached to the wall.
Remove the U-bend pipe and pour any excess water into the sink.
Inspect the inside of the U-bend for residue, buildup, and blockages.
Debris often settles in the U-bend before it can block the rest of the drain.
Clean out any blockage you find.

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Step 9 Reconnect the drain parts

Fit the U-bend pipe back into position.
Hand-tighten the plastic connector or connectors only.
Don't use pliers or over-tighten the connectors because the plastic threads can be damaged.
Reconnect the waste pump hose securely.
Don't forget to reconnect the waste pump hose, or water can spill onto the floor.
Check that the drain hose route isn't kinked.
Firmly nudge the dishwasher side to side and up and down if you suspect the level sensor is stuck.
Keep the dishwasher upright and controlled so it doesn't tip or strain the hoses.

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Step 10 Reassemble and test the dishwasher

Slide the upper basket back onto its rails until the handles lock.
Put the lower basket back into the dishwasher.
Plug the dishwasher in and press Start to test it.
Watch for leaks under the sink and behind the dishwasher before pushing it fully back.
If E23 returns or draining is still poor, unplug the dishwasher and inspect the remaining drainage hoses for blockages.
If all drain paths are clear, a wet waste water pump motor or corroded rubber seal can still cause E23.
Have a dishwasher technician inspect the waste water pump motor if the issue remains.

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Conclusion

Clean the filter, spray propellers, pump impeller area, drain hose, and drainage U-bend regularly to help the dishwasher drain well and wash efficiently. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.

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