Bosch Dryer: not draining

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Bosch dryer not draining properly? If it collects water instead of removing condensate, your clothes may remain damp. This issue often leads to error codes like E03/DR. Common causes include a clogged drain hose, a full condensation container, or dirty filters. Fortunately, there are DIY solutions you can try before seeking professional help.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Bosch Models

Error code E03 specifically indicates a blocked or kinked condensation drainage hose on Bosch dryers and Bosch recommends inspecting and clearing that hose.

Possible Causes

Clogged or kinked condensation drain hose

How to Identify: Check for visible kinks or bends and disconnect the hose to inspect for blockages.

Part: Condensation drain hose

Full or improperly seated condensation container

How to Identify: If the dryer has a removable water tank, ensure it is emptied and seated properly; overfilling interrupts drainage. Community articles note overfilled containers can stop proper drainage. (åšä¸–å®¶ç”µ

Part: Condensation container

Dirty filters or lint buildup blocking drainage

How to Identify: Check lint filter and condensation-area filters for lint and debris; cleaning improves flow.

Part: Lint filter / condensation filter

Faulty drain pump

How to Identify: No sound of pump operation and persistent drainage problem despite clear hose and container; water remains in drum.

Part: Drain pump

Electronic control board issues

How to Identify: Error codes persist after clearing hoses and filters; intermittent or no response from control functions.

Part: Control board

DIY Solutions

Clear condensation drain hose

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, long flexible brush or similar tool

Unplug the dryer from power.
Locate the condensation drain hose at back of dryer.
Disconnect hose and inspect for kinks or debris.
Use a flexible brush or warm water to clear blockages.
Reattach hose ensuring no kinks and test with a short cycle.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing hose

Empty and properly seat condensation container

Easy 5 minutes

Locate condensation container.
Remove and empty water.
Check that container and any seals are correctly seated.
Run a cycle to verify normal drainage.

Clean lint and condensation filters

Easy 10 minutes

Tools Needed: soft brush

Open dryer lint filter area.
Remove lint filter and empty lint.
Clean surrounding filter areas and any condensation filters per manual.
Reinstall filters and run a test.

Professional Repairs

Drain pump inspection and replacement

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Control board diagnosis and repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Drain pump humming but no drainage

Persistent error codes after clearing blocks and filters

Electrical issues or internal control failures

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint filter: Drain and airflow blockages
Frequency: After every load
Inspect drain hose: Blockages and kinks that stop drainage
Frequency: Monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Dryer not draining?

Common causes include a clogged drain hose, a full condensation container, dirty filters, or a faulty drain pump.

How do I fix Bosch Dryer not draining myself?

Try clearing the drain hose, emptying the condensation container, and cleaning the lint and condensation filters.

How much does it cost to fix not draining?

Professional repair costs range from $80 to $400 depending on whether it's the drain pump or control board.

When should I call a technician for not draining?

If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue within a reasonable time, or if you suspect a faulty drain pump or control board.

References & Sources

Bosch Dryer Error Code E03 and Drainage Hose Troubleshooting Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Clogs in the drain pump or condensation coils (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

Check the drain pump impeller for clogs and replace the pump if necessary.

Success rate: 50.0%
Clean the condensation coils every other week to prevent water drainage issues.

Success rate: 50.0%

Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

Community Discussions

Not draining water

Clean the condensation coils every other week to prevent water drainage issues.

DIY View on Reddit →

not draining

Check the drain pump impeller for clogs; if that doesn't work, replace the pump.