The E20 error on your Bosch dishwasher means the circulation pump can’t run properly. Usually it’s a blockage in the filter or pump cover area — both DIY checks. On models without a screen the same fault shows as a flashing “Tap” indicator instead of E20.

Error code E20 (or flashing Tap indicator on screenless models)
Meaning Circulation pump fault — water not being moved through the spray arms
Severity Medium — DIY for blockages, technician for pump replacement
Time to fix 15–60 minutes
Tools needed Towel, soft brush, teaspoon, multimeter (optional)

What the E20 error means

The circulation pump pushes water through the spray arms during a cycle. Unlike the drain pump, it works continuously throughout wash and rinse phases. If it can’t spin freely — debris jamming the impeller, foreign object lodged in the housing, or wiring failure — the dishwasher detects abnormal current draw and aborts with E20. Most cases come down to the same blockages that cause E24 and E25, just affecting the wash side rather than the drain side.

Common causes

  • Foreign object (glass, food, bone) jammed in the circulation pump impeller
  • Loose pump cover allowing debris to enter the pump
  • Blocked filter starving the pump of water
  • Drain hose kinked or obstructed
  • Loose or damaged wiring on the pump
  • Failed pump motor

How to fix the E20 error

  1. Power-cycle the machine. Unplug the dishwasher for a few minutes, then plug back in. A one-off jam may have cleared and the reset gets the cycle moving again.
  2. Clean the filter. Remove the bottom rack, twist out the circular filter, rinse under warm water with a soft brush, and refit hand-tight.
  3. Check the pump cover. With the filter out, look into the pump well. The impeller cover unclips with a teaspoon on most Bosch models. Pull the cover, clear any debris around the impeller, and refit it firmly.
  4. Spin the impeller by hand. The impeller should turn freely with no resistance. Stiff or stuck = foreign object or fiber wrapped around it. Clear and refit.
  5. Check the drain path. Flush the drain hose with warm water and confirm the pump cover is seated properly. Loose pump covers cause E20 frequently.
  6. If E20 returns, the circulation pump motor itself may have failed, or there’s a wiring fault. That’s a technician job — the pump replacement is involved and pricing varies considerably.

FAQ

What’s the difference between E20 and E24?
E20 is the wash-side circulation pump (water moving through the spray arms). E24 is the drain pump (water leaving the machine). They share blockage causes but the fix points are different sides of the pump assembly.

Why does my Bosch show a flashing Tap symbol instead of E20?
On models without a digital display, Bosch uses indicator-light flash patterns instead of letter/number codes. A flashing Tap symbol corresponds to E20 — same fault, same fix.

Will running the dishwasher empty clear E20?
No — running it without water makes the pump worse, not better. Diagnose first; only run a test cycle once you’ve cleared blockages.