Thermador dishwashers are renowned for their reliability and high-end performance, but like any appliance, they can encounter occasional issues. One of the most common error codes owners face is E22, which signals a problem with the dishwasher’s filter. Understanding what triggers this error, how to fix it, and how to prevent it can save time, frustration, and unnecessary service calls.
What Is the E22 Error?
Error code E22 is an indication that the dishwasher’s filter requires cleaning. The filter is responsible for trapping food particles and debris, preventing them from recirculating onto your dishes. When the filter becomes clogged, water flow is obstructed, and the dishwasher cannot clean effectively.
A clogged filter can lead to several symptoms beyond the error code itself. You may notice dishes remaining dirty after a cycle, unusual noises during operation, or longer-than-usual washing times. Recognizing the E22 code promptly allows you to address the issue before it escalates.
Common Causes of Error Code E22
Several factors can contribute to a clogged filter, resulting in the E22 error:
- Food Debris Build-Up: Scraps of food that remain on dishes or plates can accumulate in the filter over time.
- Grease and Oil Residue: Cooking oils and sauces can create a sticky layer on the filter, trapping additional debris.
- Neglecting Regular Cleaning: Even with normal use, filters require periodic maintenance to prevent clogs.
- Small Objects: Bits of packaging, bones, or other small particles may slip into the filter and cause blockages.
While E22 is usually simple to resolve, ignoring the error may impact cleaning performance and stress the dishwasher’s pump and internal components.
How to Fix E22 Yourself
The good news is that E22 is generally an easy DIY fix. You do not necessarily need professional help if you follow these steps carefully:
- Locate the Filter: The filter is typically at the bottom of the dishwasher, beneath the lower spray arm. It’s designed to catch food particles before they recirculate.
- Access the Filter: Move the lower spray arm out of the way, then lift or slide the filter housing to expose the filter.
- Remove and Clean the Filter: Flip the filter over or slide it out of its housing. Rinse it under warm water, using a mild soap and a soft sponge or brush to remove trapped food, grease, and grime.
- Reassemble and Reinstall: After cleaning, place the filter back into the dishwasher, ensuring it sits securely. Return the spray arm to its original position.
After performing these steps, run a short cycle to check if the E22 error is cleared. Most of the time, cleaning the filter resolves the issue completely.
Preventive Maintenance for Your Thermador Dishwasher
Regular maintenance can prevent recurring E22 errors and keep your dishwasher operating efficiently.
- Clean the Filter Frequently: For heavy use, clean the filter weekly or after cycles with particularly dirty dishes.
- Scrape Large Food Particles Off Plates: Removing large scraps before loading can reduce debris accumulation in the filter.
- Rinse Dishes Quickly: If possible, rinse heavily soiled dishes before placing them in the dishwasher.
- Inspect for Small Objects: Check for packaging remnants or small bones that could clog the filter.
- Run Maintenance Cycles: Occasionally run the dishwasher empty with a dishwasher-safe cleaner to remove grease and buildup from the internal components.
These simple steps can reduce stress on your dishwasher’s pump, maintain water flow, and prevent repeated E22 errors.
Signs You Might Need Professional Help
Although E22 is usually a filter issue, sometimes persistent errors may indicate a deeper problem. Consider calling a technician if you notice:
- The error persists even after cleaning the filter thoroughly
- Water is not draining properly despite a clean filter
- Unusual noises, leaks, or odors occur during cycles
- Multiple error codes appear simultaneously
A professional can inspect the pump, hoses, and internal components to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Real-Life Scenarios
Many Thermador owners encounter E22 due to routine dishwasher use:
- A family regularly cooking meals with rice, pasta, and sticky sauces noticed E22 appearing weekly. After adjusting their cleaning routine and rinsing dishes before loading, the error almost disappeared.
- In one case, a dishwasher displayed E22 repeatedly. Upon inspection, a small piece of bone was lodged in the filter housing, causing a blockage. Removing it solved the issue immediately.
- Another owner experienced E22 errors due to grease buildup in a dishwasher that had not been professionally serviced for years. A deep clean of the filter and running a maintenance cycle cleared the code.
These examples illustrate that E22 is typically manageable with simple inspection and maintenance.
Conclusion
Thermador dishwashers are high-performance appliances, but even the best machines need regular care. Error code E22 signals that the filter is clogged and needs cleaning. By following proper steps to clean the filter and performing routine maintenance, you can prevent this error from recurring and maintain optimal cleaning performance.
Addressing the E22 error promptly ensures your dishwasher continues to operate efficiently, saving time and protecting your appliance from unnecessary wear. Regular checks, careful loading, and periodic deep cleaning are the keys to long-term reliability and trouble-free operation of your Thermador dishwasher.