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How to Understand and Fix the KitchenAid Dishwasher E2 Error Code
Has the E2 error code on your KitchenAid dishwasher been annoying you lately, and you have no idea what it means? Take a deep breath-you are not alone, and the best news is that you can probably resolve this issue on your own with just a little guidance. This blog goes over what an E2 error code means, why it happens, and some easy steps you can take to repair it.

What Does the E2 Error Code Mean?
When this E2 error code shows upon the display of your KitchenAid dishwasher, then it outwardly means your dishwasher is saying, “The draining system isn’t right.” It really meant to say there was an error in the system where water was not well discharged. That would include a blockage in the discharge parts of a component or a failure in the water-pumping system.
That sounds like a big deal, but fear not-it is usually an issue that can be fixed, and with a good attitude, your dishwasher will be back to its usual self in no time.
Why Does the E2 Error Happen?
An E2 error can be caused due to several reasons:
- Clogged Filter or Drain Hose: Particles of food, grease, and other things can block the filter or drain hose, and thus water does not get drained out of the dishwasher.
- Kinked Drain Hose: The drain hose might be kinked, which obstructs the flow of water through it.
- Faulty Drain Pump: The water is supposed to be pushed out by the drain pump; in case it fails, the water will just remain there.
- Air Gap Blockage: This is located at the top part of the sink and is considered a backflow preventer of some sort; if this pathway is clogged, it might also trigger an error code like this.
Now that you know the likely culprits, it’s time to actually get hands-on with troubleshooting!
How to Resolve the E2 Error Code – A Step-by-Step Approach
Remember to unplug your dishwasher or switch the power off at the circuit breaker before attempting to fix it.
1. Filter Checking and Cleaning
- Open the door of your dishwasher, locating the filter, which is generally found at the bottom of the tub.
- Gently pull out the filter and wash under warm water. Use a soft brush to remove captured food and grease.
- Reattach the filter securely before proceeding to the next step.

2. Check the Drain Hose
- Go behind the dishwasher and trace the drain hose from the point where it connects at the back of your dishwasher to your sink or garbage disposal.
- Ensure the hose has no kinks or bends; straighten those you may observe.
- Remove the drain hose and clean it by flushing with warm water to remove all blockages. You may use a long, flexible brush for better cleaning.

3. Clean the Air Gap-if There Is One
If there is an air gap on your dishwasher-a small cylinder near the sink-remove its cover. Look inside for blockages and clean it with warm water or a thin brush.

4. Check the Drain Pump
- Access the drain pump by removing the bottom access panel of the dishwasher.
- Check the pump and surrounding area for obvious debris. Shine a flashlight inside the pump, if possible.
- Reach into the pump and manually turn the impeller to ensure it spins freely. If it cannot, or if it is broken, you may have to replace the pump.

5. Run a Test Cycle
Now, restart your dishwasher and enter an empty cycle to verify that the E2 error is solved. Observe well if the water drains out or not while the cycle runs.
When to Call a Professional
If the E2 error persists even after trying these steps, then it might be time to call in the professionals. A faulty drain pump or wiring requires special tools and expertise, and proper repair is needed for your safety. Do-it-yourself troubleshooting may remedy most common malfunctions, but expert help will keep your dishwasher in top shape when it involves more complex issues.
How to Prevent the E2 Error in the Future
A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your KitchenAid dishwasher works without an hiccup. Here’s how you can avoid the E2 error coming back again:
- Clean the Filter: Every week, get into the routine of cleaning the filter in order to stop any blockage of the drain hose.
- Don’t Overcrowd Dishes: Forcing too many dishes inside often causes poor flow and drainage.
- Pre-rinse dishes before loading into the dishwasher to remove large pieces of food.
- Periodically Check the Drain Hose: Avoid kinking the hose and eliminate blockages in the hose.
Approach an E2 error code with your KitchenAid dishwasher patiently-it is infuriating-but you do have the potentials to get that appliance up and running once more. The rule of thumb for troubleshooting is literally to take everything one step at a time while cleaning out whatever debris and searching for blockage issues.
Still feeling uncertain? Well, don’t worry; just call in a professional to assist you-it’s always better than risking further damage. With periodic maintenance, your dishwasher will be back to doing what it does best: making life easier for you.
Now, take out your toolkit and go ahead to fix that E2 error like a pro-you got it!