How to Replace a Bosch Dishwasher Drain Solenoid Valve (E19 Error Fix)

The drain solenoid valve (also called the magnetic drain valve) on a Bosch dishwasher controls the release of water from the internal water reservoir during the regeneration cycle of the water softener system. When this valve fails, your Bosch dishwasher displays error code E19 — indicating the regeneration drain is not functioning. This valve is found primarily on European-market Bosch dishwashers and US models equipped with the water softener system.

The drain solenoid is a small electromagnetic valve (BSH 00631199) that is separate from the main drain pump. It specifically handles the brine discharge from the water softener unit.

Before You Start

• Tools needed: Torx T20 driver, Torx T15 driver, needle-nose pliers, multimeter, towels, flashlight
• Parts needed: Drain solenoid valve BSH 00631199 (~$25-$55)
• Time required: 30-45 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Safety warning: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker before any work. The solenoid valve carries 120V when activated. The area around the valve may have concentrated salt water (brine) which is corrosive — wear gloves and clean any spills from metal surfaces immediately.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Confirm E19 Is a Valve Failure

Error E19 on Bosch dishwashers specifically relates to the water softener drain circuit. Before replacing the valve, verify: the salt container is properly filled (low salt can trigger related errors), the brine hose is not kinked or clogged, and the valve is actually receiving power. If E19 appears but your model does not have a water softener (most US models), the error may indicate a different drain path issue — consult your model-specific error code list.

Step 2: Locate the Drain Solenoid Valve

Remove the kick plate (2 Torx T20 screws). The drain solenoid is typically located near the base of the dishwasher, close to the water softener unit and salt container. It is a small cylindrical device (about the size of a C-battery) with a 2-wire electrical connector and two small-diameter hose connections (inlet from softener, outlet to drain path). It may be mounted on a bracket attached to the frame or the sump housing.

Step 3: Test the Solenoid Electrically

Disconnect the 2-pin electrical connector from the solenoid. Set your multimeter to ohms and measure across the solenoid's pins. A functioning solenoid coil reads 200-500 ohms (varies by model). Open circuit (OL) = burned coil, confirm replacement needed. Also check for short to ground: measure between either pin and the valve's metal body — should read infinity. If the coil tests good, the E19 error may be caused by a mechanical blockage rather than electrical failure.

Step 4: Check for Mechanical Blockage

Before replacing an electrically good valve: disconnect the outlet hose and blow gently through the valve inlet. With a good valve de-energized, air should NOT pass through (valve closed). Apply 120V briefly (use a test cord with inline fuse if available) — the valve should click and allow air/water through. If the valve does not click despite good coil resistance, the plunger is mechanically stuck from mineral buildup. Some technicians soak stuck valves in vinegar to free them, but replacement is more reliable.

Step 5: Disconnect Hose Connections

Note which hose connects to the inlet vs outlet — they may be different diameters. Squeeze the spring clamps with needle-nose pliers, slide each clamp back, and pull the hoses off the valve barbs. Small amounts of brine (salt water) will drip. Have a towel positioned. If the hoses are brittle or cracked, plan to replace them as well.

Step 6: Remove the Old Valve

The solenoid is mounted with either a bracket screw (1 Torx T15) or a snap-in plastic clip. Remove the screw or release the clip. Pull the valve free. Compare the old valve with the new BSH 00631199 — verify the barb sizes, connector orientation, and mounting style match.

Step 7: Install the New Valve

Mount the new valve in the same position and orientation. Secure with the bracket screw or snap into the clip. Connect the hoses: inlet from softener on the inlet port, outlet to drain path on the outlet port. Push each hose fully onto the barbs. Slide spring clamps back into position over the barb ridges. Reconnect the electrical connector (press until click).

Step 8: Test and Clear the Error

Restore power. The E19 error may clear automatically when the next regeneration cycle runs successfully. To force a test: on most Bosch models, press and hold the Start button for 5 seconds to run a diagnostic drain cycle. If E19 clears and does not return after 2-3 full wash cycles, the repair is successful. If E19 persists, verify hose connections are not reversed and the electrical connector is fully seated.

Understanding the E19 Error in Context

E19 is specific to the water softener subsystem. Related errors:

Preventing Future E19 Failures

• Use only coarse dishwasher salt (not fine table salt) — fine salt can enter the drain path and clog the solenoid
• Run the dishwasher at least 2-3 times per week to prevent mineral deposits from hardening inside the solenoid
• If your water is extremely hard (above 20 GPG), consider a whole-home water softener to reduce the load on the dishwasher's internal system

When to Call a Professional

Consider professional help if:

• You are unsure whether your Bosch model has a water softener system (some E19 codes on non-softener models indicate different issues)
• The solenoid tests good but E19 persists — the control board's regeneration timer circuit may be faulty
• Brine has leaked into the base pan causing AquaStop (E15) alongside E19 — both the leak and the float switch need attention
• The softener resin beads have contaminated the wash system (tiny amber beads in the filter) — a full system flush is needed

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Need Professional Help?

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FAQ

Q: What is the drain solenoid valve and how is it different from the drain pump? A: The drain pump (BSH 00631200) is the main motor that pumps all wash/rinse water out of the dishwasher. The drain solenoid valve (BSH 00631199) is a small electromagnetic valve that only handles brine discharge from the water softener during regeneration. They serve completely different functions in separate drain circuits.

Q: My Bosch dishwasher shows E19 but I don't have a salt compartment. Why? A: Some Bosch models use the same error code framework regardless of whether the softener is installed. E19 on a non-softener model may indicate a different issue (variant depending on model series). Check your specific model's service manual for the exact E19 meaning — it may map to a general drain path fault on your unit.

Q: Can mineral buildup in the drain solenoid be cleaned rather than replacing the valve? A: Sometimes. Soaking the valve in white vinegar for 2-4 hours can dissolve calcium deposits that jam the plunger. After soaking, apply 120V briefly to verify the valve clicks and allows flow. However, if the coil is burned (open circuit on multimeter), no amount of cleaning will restore it — replacement is the only option.

Q: How often does the Bosch water softener regenerate? A: Regeneration frequency depends on your water hardness setting and usage. With moderate hardness (10-15 GPG) and daily use, regeneration occurs every 5-7 cycles. With very hard water (20+ GPG), it may regenerate every 2-3 cycles. Regeneration adds 5-15 minutes to the selected cycle.

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