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Dishwasher Filter assembly: What It Does and Signs It's Failing

The cylinder and flat mesh screen in the floor of the tub, around or under the lower spray arm. It catches food scraps, glass and labels before they reach the pumps. Most current dishwashers have a manual filter you twist out and clean.

How it works

All the water that runs back into the sump passes through the filter, so debris stays out of the wash pump and drain pump. A coarse filter catches big pieces and a fine mesh traps the rest.

Signs it is failing

• Standing water or a drain code
• Grit or food film left on dishes
• A sour smell from the bottom of the tub
• Visible clogging or a torn mesh

A clogged filter is the most common cause behind drain codes and poor-cleaning complaints across brands. LG suggests cleaning it every week or two.

Can you replace it yourself?

Twist the filter out, wash it in the sink with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and lock it back in place firmly. Don't run the machine with the filter out. Replace it only if the mesh is torn or the frame is cracked.

Buying the right part

Filters are model-specific and inexpensive. Get the brand's own part so it locks into the sump correctly.

Error codes linked to the filter assembly

• E24Dishwasher is not draining (blocked drain path)Bosch
• E25Drain pump blocked or pump cover looseBosch
• E22Filter is blockedBosch
• i20Didn't drain completelyFrigidaire
• i40 / iF0Clogged filter or sumpFrigidaire
• C3 / FTD / F56Dishwasher won't drainGE
• F9E1Long drain (water not pumping out)KitchenAid
• OENot drainingLG
• F11Water left in the wash cabinet (drain fault)Miele
• Drain indicator flashingDrain light flashing, program stoppedMiele
• 5C / 5E / SC / SEDishwasher is not drainingSamsung
• 1E / IEClogged filter or overheating (depends on model)Samsung
• F9E1Long drain (slow or no drain)Whirlpool

Last reviewed 2026-10-19.