How to Resolve Bosch
Dishwasher Error E15

Bosch dishwashers are known for their high-quality dish cleaning and their durability. However, it’s normal to encounter the occasional error while using them. One of the more serious errors you can encounter with a Bosch dishwasher is the E15 or the watertap error. This error occurs when water leaks into the base of the dishwasher, putting the electrical components of the dishwasher at risk. This can be dangerous, but you don’t need to panic when you encounter this error. Instead, in this blog post, we will walk you through some simple steps that will help you resolve the E15 error and get your Bosch dishwasher back in working order.

Step 1: Turn Off Your Dishwasher

When you encounter an E15 error, it’s important to turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power socket before you start the repair. If the plug is not easily accessible, you can turn it off at the breaker box. Turn off the breaker associated with the dishwasher.

After turning off the dishwasher, locate the water supply and turn it off to prevent further water from leaking into the base. This step is essential for your safety and the safety of other people in your home since electricity and water can be a dangerous combination.

According to Bosch, your very next step should be to call in a repair professional. We also recommend this as your next move. However, for the more DIY inclined, you can follow the steps below for tips on how to fix the E15 error without resorting to calling in the cavalry.

Step 2: Drain the Dishwasher

The next step is to drain the dishwasher. You can do this quite easily by mopping the water from the base of the dishwasher using a towel or sponge. If the amount of water is significant, you can use a wet vacuum cleaner to clear it.

Step 3: Check for Leaks

After draining the dishwasher, you should check for any water leaks. Inspect the supply hose that connects the dishwasher to the water supply and ensure that it’s not kinked or damaged in any way. Also, check the dishwasher’s door seal and ensure that it’s not cracked or warped. If you find any leaks, repair them or replace the damaged hose or seals.

Step 4: Reset the Dishwasher

Now, it’s time to reset the dishwasher to clear the error code. To do this, we will need to go into the dishwasher itself. For this part, you will need a torque screwdriver (star tip) or a drill with a torque head attachment.

Begin by opening the door and removing the screws along both sides of the door. Leave the screws at the top. The screws will not all be the same length, so it’s important to take note of where they came from so you can reassemble the dishwasher correctly.

Close the door and carefully remove the front panel by pulling on the handle. Next, remove the footplate and the kickplate at the base of the dishwasher by removing their screws and pulling them towards you. Next, remove the cover at the base of the dishwasher and the insulation.

Inside the dishwasher, you will see a small circle of styrofoam. This is your internal float sensor. You may also notice water puddling around the sensor. This sensor at the top is what will have triggered the E15 code, water having leaked into that area and lifted the styrofoam enough that it activated the sensor at the top.

Now, disconnect the switch at the top of the styrofoam circle. Once it has been disconnected, remove the styrofoam circle as well, this will simply lift out. Now, remove the water puddled there using some sponges or towels. Be sure to clean the styrofoam disc as well.

Once everything is clean and dry, replace the disc and reconnect the float switch to the disc.

Then, you will want to follow the above steps in reverse to reassemble the dishwasher. Replace the insulation, then screw on the cover. Replace both the kickplate and footplate at the base. Then reattach the front panel and screw it in place. Be sure to screw the front panel back slowly, as you do not want to over-torque the screws and damage the dishwasher.

Plug the dishwasher back in and turn the water back on.

Step 5: Run a Test Cycle

The final step is to run a test cycle to ensure that the error code has been cleared and the dishwasher is working correctly.

Add some dishwasher detergent to the dispenser, place some dirty dishes in the dishwasher, and choose a “normal wash” cycle. If the dishwasher completes the test cycle successfully without displaying any errors, then you have resolved the problem, and the dishwasher is ready to use.

Ways to Prevent the E15 Error from Happening Again

Keeping your dishwasher clean is crucial to prevent leaks from occurring and getting an E15 error. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Clean the Filter

The filter is an essential part of your dishwasher that prevents food particles from clogging the drain. To clean it, first, remove the bottom dish rack. You will find the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher.

Depending on the model, you might need to turn it counterclockwise or simply pull it out.

Rinse the filter under warm water and gently scrub off any trapped debris with a soft brush. Thoroughly rinse it before putting it back.

2. Clean the Gaskets

The dishwasher door gasket is a rubber seal that runs along the opening of the dishwasher, keeping water inside during a wash cycle.

Over time, powdered detergents can build up along the gaskets, causing them to degrade.

To clean them, wipe down the door gaskets with a damp cloth, then apply a mild soap.

Scrub gently to remove any accumulated residue. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.

3. Clean the Spray Arms

The spray arms spray water throughout the cycle, to clean your dishes. Over time, these arms can become clogged with the food particles that come off your dishes, reducing their efficiency.

To clean them, remove the spray arms by unscrewing them from the base of the dishwasher.

Rinse them under hot water, and use a toothpick to clear out any debris in the spray holes. Replace the spray arms once they’re clean.

4. Clean the Inlet and Drain

The inlet and drain in your dishwasher allow water to flow in and out of the machine. If these become clogged, your dishwasher may not clean properly or may leak.

To clean them, first, turn off the power and water supply to your dishwasher. Then, locate the inlet and drain (usually at the back or bottom of the machine, respectively). Use a small brush to scrub away any debris, then rinse with warm water.

Regular dishwasher maintenance will extend the life of your dishwasher and ensure it operates efficiently. Always refer to your dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions related to your model.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with the Bosch dishwasher error E15 can be a scary task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the inner workings of the appliance. However, you don’t have to worry, as the steps outlined above will help you resolve the error and get your dishwasher back in working order.

Remember to follow each step carefully to ensure that you don’t damage any parts or cause further errors. Finally, if the error persists even after following these steps, you should call a professional technician to diagnose and repair the problem.

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