Introduction
Use this guide to clear an E18 error on a Siemens washing machine caused by a blocked pump filter. The pump filter, also called the drain pump filter, drainage pump filter, or coin trap, catches debris before it reaches the drain pump. When it clogs, the washer may stop mid-cycle and fail to drain. This procedure applies to many Siemens front-loading washers with a lower-right pump filter access panel; some models may have minor panel differences.
What you need
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Step 1 Identify the error and make the washer safe
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Confirm the display shows E18 and the washer has stopped draining, often mid-cycle.
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Remove any wet washing from the drum.
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Turn off the power supply cold water feed.
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Step 2 Open the pump filter service panel
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Find the small plastic service panel on the lower right front of the washer.
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Push down the clip at the top of the panel and pull the panel off.
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Identify the small drain hose and the pump filter behind the panel.
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Step 3 Drain water from the small hose
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Place a small tray under the small drain hose.
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Pull the hose out a little.
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Unclip the small cap on the end of the hose and let the water drain into the tray.
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Clip the cap back on securely and put the hose back in place after the water stops draining.
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Step 4 Drain water from the pump filter
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Place the small tray under the pump filter and lay a small towel on the floor.
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Turn the pump filter counterclockwise slowly, but don't remove it completely yet.
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Let the remaining water drain into the tray.
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If the tray fills or water comes out too quickly, turn the filter clockwise to tighten it, empty the tray, and loosen the filter again.
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Step 5 Remove debris from the filter
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Turn the pump filter counterclockwise slowly until it comes free.
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Remove coins, hair clips, and any other debris from the filter.
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Look inside the filter opening and remove anything else that is stuck inside.
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Step 6 Check the pump propeller and clean the filter
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Use a flat-blade screwdriver to nudge the pump propeller and confirm it turns freely.
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Rinse a gunky or dirty filter under hot water.
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Step 7 Reinstall the pump filter
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Insert the pump filter into the opening and turn it clockwise.
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Keep turning until the filter locks in the upright position.
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Turn the cold water feed back on slowly.
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Step 8 Test for leaks and drainage
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Put the wet washing back in or load a wash, close the door, and start a short cycle.
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Watch the pump filter area during the test cycle.
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Fit the lower front service panel after the filter stays dry.
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Step 9 Prevent and troubleshoot repeat E18 errors
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Check the drainage hose for a blockage if the E18 error returns after the filter is clean.
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Check the U-bend for a blockage if the drainage hose is clear.
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Stop the cycle and clean the filter as soon as possible if the pump makes strange noises.
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The washer should drain normally after the blockage is removed, the filter is sealed, and the test cycle runs without leaks. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.
